No matter what type of special event you're planning—from a casual holiday party for family and friends to a fancy anniversary soiree—a Mexican-themed buffet is sure to please all of your guests. Not only is Mexican cuisine delicious, but it also offers enough variety to appeal to a wide range of appetites. 

A Mexican-inspired buffet is also ideal for both kids' and adults' birthday celebrations, bridal and baby showers, and even wedding receptions. You can either make all of the dishes yourself or hire a catering company to do the cooking for you. As another option, you can have food from your favorite local Mexican restaurant delivered directly to the event space. Even though this may cost you a bit more than preparing the meal yourself would, it will save you a lot of time.

Here are some Mexican-themed dishes that are perfect for serving buffet-style:

Appetizers

1. Dips 

Start off the meal as you do at an authentic Mexican restaurant—with a variety of flavorful homemade dips. If you're pressed for time, you can also buy the dips from a deli. A mix of mild and spicy salsas; creamy guacamole; and a smooth, rich queso dip will get the party started on a tasty note.

Be sure to provide plenty of tortilla chips and a platter of fresh vegetables, such as carrot and celery sticks, as a healthy option. 

2. Mini Chimichangas 

Another fun way to start off your meal is with mini chimichangas, which are burritos stuffed with a variety of fillings and then deep-fried until crisp. Provide several different types of chimichangas, including bean-and-cheese-filled ones for the vegetarians in the group. 

Complement the snacks with sour cream, salsa, or queso for dipping.

Main Courses 

1. Burritos

It wouldn't be a Mexican-themed buffet spread without burritos, which are easy to make and convenient for guests to enjoy while they mix and mingle. Again, provide a variety of filling options, including beans, cheese, and shredded pork and chicken, to appeal to all of your guests. 

Keep each type of burrito on a separate tray, and keep them warm over a heated lamp. Accompany the burritos with all of the traditional toppings, including shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes, so that party-goers can customize their own plates.

2. Taco Salads

Guests can have fun assembling their own taco salads, which are ideal for serving buffet-style. Provide one crispy tortilla bowl for each guest, as well as a variety of fillings, such as seasoned ground beef, refried beans, shredded cheese and lettuce, sour cream, and salsa. 

Keep all of the hot items fresh and tasty in warming trays, and the cold items crisp and cool over ice. 

If you're interested in finding out more, visit sites such as http://www.elmolinitos.com.