Looking for a quick, wholesome, and flavor-packed meal? These Vegetarian Tostadas are everything you love about Mexican-inspired food: crispy tortillas topped with creamy refried beans, fresh veggies, zesty salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese (or dairy-free alternatives).
This recipe is not only simple and budget-friendly but also customizable, making it perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even party platters.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🌱 100% Vegetarian – Packed with plant-based protein and fresh vegetables.
- ⏱️ Quick & easy – On the table in under 30 minutes.
- 🥑 Customizable – Top with your favorite veggies, sauces, or proteins.
- 🎉 Crowd-pleasing – Great for casual dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Base:
- Corn tortillas – Crisped in the oven or lightly fried.
- Refried beans – Vegetarian (or vegan) for protein and creaminess.
Toppings:
- Lettuce or shredded cabbage – Adds crunch.
- Tomatoes – Diced fresh or pico de gallo.
- Avocado or guacamole – Creamy richness.
- Cheese – Cotija, queso fresco, or shredded cheddar (optional).
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt – For tanginess.
- Fresh cilantro – Bright, herby finish.
- Salsa or hot sauce – For heat and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Crisp the Tortillas
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush tortillas lightly with oil and bake for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
(Alternative: Lightly pan-fry tortillas in oil until crisp.)
Step 2: Prepare the Beans
- Warm refried beans in a small saucepan.
- If too thick, add a splash of water or broth until spreadable.
Step 3: Assemble the Tostadas
- Spread a layer of warm beans on each crispy tortilla.
- Add toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, cheese, and sour cream.
- Finish with salsa, hot sauce, and fresh cilantro.
Pro Tips for Perfect Vegetarian Tostadas
✔️ Don’t overload – Too many toppings can make the tortilla soggy.
✔️ Bake instead of fry – A healthier option that’s still crispy.
✔️ Add variety – Try roasted veggies, black beans, or grilled corn for extra flavor.
✔️ Make it vegan – Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
These tostadas are incredibly versatile! Try serving them with:
- 🌽 Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)
- 🍲 Black Bean Soup
- 🥗 Zesty Cucumber Avocado Salad
- 🍹 Fresh Agua Fresca or Lime Margarita
Storage & Meal Prep
- Keep tortillas and toppings separate until ready to serve.
- Store refried beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat beans before assembling tostadas for best flavor.
Nutrition (Per Tostada – approximate)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 9g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 6g
FAQs
Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Traditionally, tostadas are made with corn tortillas for crunch and flavor, but flour tortillas can be used if baked until crispy.
Q: How can I make these gluten-free?
Stick with 100% corn tortillas (naturally gluten-free) and check that your beans and toppings are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I prepare tostadas in advance?
Yes! Bake the tortillas and prep toppings ahead of time. Assemble just before serving to keep them crispy.
Printable Recipe Card
Vegetarian Tostadas Recipe
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 6 corn tortillas
- 2 cups refried beans (vegetarian/vegan)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
- ½ cup shredded cheese (or vegan cheese)
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro, salsa, and hot sauce (for topping)
Instructions
- Bake or fry tortillas until crispy.
- Warm beans and spread over tortillas.
- Add lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, cheese, and sour cream.
- Top with salsa, cilantro, and hot sauce.
- Serve immediately.
Final Thoughts
These Vegetarian Tostadas are the perfect mix of crispy, creamy, and fresh flavors. They’re budget-friendly, customizable, and a guaranteed hit whether you’re making a quick family dinner or feeding a crowd.
✨ Try them tonight and let me know in the comments: What toppings would you add to your tostada?