Description
This easy tostada recipe features crispy tostada shells layered with creamy refried beans, fresh avocado slices, shredded lettuce and red cabbage, and crumbly Cotija cheese. Customize with your favorite toppings like salsa, pickled jalapeños, and fresh cilantro for a vibrant, quick Mexican-inspired meal perfect for casual lunches or dinner for six.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 to 10 tostada shells
- 3 cups homemade refried beans, or 2 (16-ounce) cans refried beans, warmed
- 2 avocados, pitted and thinly sliced
- 3 cups mixed shredded iceberg lettuce and red cabbage
- 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- Sea salt, to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
Other Topping Options
- Chopped fresh tomatoes, Pico de Gallo, or salsa
- Mexican crema or Cilantro Lime Crema
- Pickled Jalapeños or Pickled Serrano Peppers
- Fresh cilantro leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Spread each tostada shell with a generous layer of refried beans, using about ¼ to ⅓ cup per shell to ensure even coverage and a sturdy foundation for toppings.
- Add fresh toppings: Arrange thin avocado slices evenly over the beans, followed by a handful of mixed shredded iceberg lettuce and red cabbage for crunch and color.
- Finish with cheese and season: Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese on top, season with sea salt to taste, and add any additional toppings like salsa, crema, pickled peppers, or fresh cilantro as desired.
- Serve: Serve the tostadas immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing, adding a fresh citrus burst to each bite.
Notes
- For a quicker alternative, canned refried beans can be used and warmed thoroughly before assembling.
- Customize toppings to preference—feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or seafood for a heartier tostada.
- Serve immediately after assembly to keep tostada shells crisp and avoid sogginess.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated (without tostada shells) and used as a filling for burritos or tacos.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
