My sixth-grader reminds me that Cinco de Mayo is not the same as Mexican Independence Day—a common misconception. Instead, Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over a much-larger French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Although it's not a holiday in the United States, many Americans celebrate it in much the same way they celebrate St. Patrick's Day, another adopted holiday, with food, drink, and much revelry. So here’s a recipe in honor of Cinco de Mayo: a low-fat tamale pie, which makes a great potluck dish. Extra-lean ground beef, and reduced fat cheese keep the fat calories in check.

More Cinco de Mayo Recipes

• Beef Enchiladas
• Pinto Bean and Sweet Corn Chili
• Beef and Black Bean Chili
• Southwestern-Style Lasagna
• Chicken Enchiladas

_{Tamale Pie Photo © Fiona Haynes, licensed to About.com, Inc.}