Easy Tostadas
Tostadas are a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. They are versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With a crispy base and a medley of toppings, these Easy Tostadas are a crowd-pleaser that anyone can whip up in no time. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, this dish brings a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these Easy Tostadas apart is their simplicity combined with bold flavors. The homemade refried beans provide a creamy base, while the toppings like avocado, crisp lettuce, and tangy Cotija cheese elevate the dish. You can customize them to your liking, adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the heat level. Plus, they come together in a snap, making them a perfect last-minute option. The balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable experience, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.
Ingredient Notes
- Tostada Shells: Look for pre-made tostada shells at your grocery store or make your own by baking corn tortillas until crispy.
- Refried Beans: You can use homemade refried beans or canned for convenience. If using canned, opt for low-sodium options to control the saltiness.
- Avocados: Choose ripe avocados for a creamy texture. Slice them thinly to layer beautifully on your tostadas.
- Mixed Lettuce: A combination of shredded iceberg lettuce and red cabbage adds color and crunch.
- Cotija Cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
- Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavors of the toppings.
- Lime Wedges: Fresh lime juice adds brightness and acidity, making each bite pop.
- Chopped Fresh Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes or store-bought Pico de Gallo or salsa for added flavor.
- Mexican Crema: This creamy sauce drizzled on top adds richness. You can also use Cilantro Lime Crema for a zesty twist.
- Pickled Jalapeños or Serrano Peppers: For those who love a kick, these toppings add just the right amount of heat.
- Fresh Cilantro Leaves: A sprinkle of cilantro adds freshness and a pop of color.
Must-Have Equipment
- Oven or Toaster Oven: Used to warm up the tostada shells if making your own.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing and assembling your toppings.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for slicing the avocados, tomatoes, and any other fresh ingredients.
- Spoon: For spreading the refried beans on the tostada shells.
- Measuring Cups: Helpful for portioning out your ingredients accurately.
Easy Tostadas — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and set them out on your countertop. If you are using canned refried beans, warm them in a small pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you prefer homemade, warm them up after cooking.
Step 2: Toast the Tostada Shells
If you are using store-bought tostada shells, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to enhance their crispiness. If you’re making your own, bake corn tortillas until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Take a tostada shell and use a spoon to spread a generous layer of warm refried beans over the top. This will be the base for all your delicious toppings.
Step 4: Layer the Toppings
Start with the thinly sliced avocados, arranging them evenly over the beans. Next, add a handful of the mixed shredded lettuce and red cabbage, creating a colorful and crunchy layer.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Cotija Cheese
Add a generous amount of crumbled Cotija cheese on top of the veggies. This adds a creamy, salty flavor that complements the freshness of the other ingredients.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the assembled tostadas. Add chopped fresh tomatoes, Pico de Gallo or salsa, and drizzle with Mexican crema or Cilantro Lime Crema. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add pickled jalapeños or Serrano peppers.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves and serve your Easy Tostadas with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy these delicious bites with friends and family!
In-Season Flavor Ideas
- In the summer, add fresh corn kernels for a sweet crunch.
- In the fall, consider topping with roasted butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
- During winter, diced oranges or grapefruit can add a refreshing citrus note.
- In the spring, fresh radishes add a lovely peppery bite.
Things That Go Wrong
Even the best cooks can run into a few hiccups. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:
- Soggy Tostadas: Make sure to use crispy tostada shells and avoid adding too many wet toppings at once.
- Overly Salty Beans: If using canned beans, rinse them before warming to reduce sodium content.
- Avocados Too Ripe: Choose avocados that are slightly firm but yield gently to pressure for perfect slices.
- Too Much Heat: Taste your pickled peppers before adding them, as some can be spicier than others.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To ensure your Easy Tostadas remain fresh and delicious, follow these tips:
- Assemble tostadas just before serving to maintain crispiness. Store toppings separately in airtight containers.
- Keep sliced avocados fresh by sprinkling them with lime juice to prevent browning.
- Store leftover refried beans in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before using.
- Use fresh ingredients within a few days for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the refried beans from scratch?
Absolutely! You can cook dried pinto beans until soft, then mash them with some seasonings for a homemade version. It adds a personal touch and flavor to your tostadas.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Queso Fresco or Monterey Jack can be excellent alternatives to Cotija cheese.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make your Easy Tostadas vegan, simply replace Cotija cheese with a plant-based cheese or omit it altogether. Use a vegan crema for drizzling, and enjoy the fresh toppings!
What can I serve with tostadas?
Easy Tostadas pair well with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a refreshing salad. You can also serve them as part of a larger taco night for a fun and festive meal.
Save & Share
If you love these Easy Tostadas as much as we do, please consider sharing this recipe with your friends and family! Whether they’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for their next gathering, these tostadas are sure to impress. Snap a picture of your tostadas and share it on social media, tagging us so we can see your delicious creations!
The beauty of Easy Tostadas is in their versatility and ease of preparation. With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and full of flavor. Enjoy the process of assembling your tostadas, and don’t hesitate to make them your own. Happy cooking!
Easy Tostadas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and set them out on your countertop. If you are using canned refried beans, warm them in a small pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you prefer homemade, warm them up after cooking.
- If you are using store-bought tostada shells, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to enhance their crispiness. If you’re making your own, bake corn tortillas until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
- Take a tostada shell and use a spoon to spread a generous layer of warm refried beans over the top. This will be the base for all your delicious toppings.
- Start with the thinly sliced avocados, arranging them evenly over the beans. Next, add a handful of the mixed shredded lettuce and red cabbage, creating a colorful and crunchy layer.
- Add a generous amount of crumbled Cotija cheese on top of the veggies. This adds a creamy, salty flavor that complements the freshness of the other ingredients.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the assembled tostadas. Add chopped fresh tomatoes, Pico de Gallo or salsa, and drizzle with Mexican crema or Cilantro Lime Crema. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add pickled jalapeños or Serrano peppers.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves and serve your Easy Tostadas with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy these delicious bites with friends and family!
Notes
- Assemble tostadas just before serving to maintain crispiness. Store toppings separately in airtight containers.
- Keep sliced avocados fresh by sprinkling them with lime juice to prevent browning.
- Store leftover refried beans in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before using.
