Discover how to make delicious Tostadas with this easy recipe. Crispy tortillas are topped with seasoned beans, savory meat, fresh lettuce, melted cheese, and zesty salsa. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner, these Tostadas are a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

- 8 small corn tortillas

- 1 cup cooked black beans (or refried beans)

- 1 cup ground beef or chicken, cooked and seasoned

- 1 cup shredded lettuce

- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your choice)

- 1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)

- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying tortillas)

- Optional: sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Instructions:

Fry Tortillas: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry each tortilla for 1-2 minutes on each side until crispy and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Prepare Toppings: While the tortillas are cooling, prepare your toppings. If using black beans, heat them in a small saucepan over low heat until warm. If using refried beans, heat according to the package instructions.

Assemble Tostadas: Spread a layer of beans over each crispy tortilla. Top with cooked ground meat.

Add Vegetables: Sprinkle shredded lettuce and cheese over the meat.

Add Salsa: Spoon salsa over the top. 

Optional Toppings: Add any additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños as desired.

Serve: Enjoy your Tostadas immediately while the tortillas are still crispy!

Notes: Customize your Tostadas with your favorite toppings and adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste.

Nutritional Values

Corn Tortillas

 - Calories: 50-60

 - Carbohydrates: 11-12 g

 - Protein: 1-2 g

 - Fat: 1-2 g

Benefits: Corn tortillas are a good source of fiber and provide essential minerals such as magnesium and iron. They are typically lower in calories compared to flour tortillas.

Black Beans (or Refried Beans)

 - Calories: 114

 - Carbohydrates: 20 g

 - Protein: 8 g

 - Fat: 0.5 g

 - Fiber: 6 g

Benefits: Black beans are high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. They are also a good source of plant-based protein and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.

Ground Beef (or Chicken)

 - Calories: 215

 - Carbohydrates: 0 g

 - Protein: 21 g

 - Fat: 15 g

Benefits: Ground beef is a rich source of high-quality protein, iron, and zinc. For a leaner option, ground chicken provides similar benefits with less fat.

Shredded Lettuce

 - Calories: 5

 - Carbohydrates: 1 g

 - Protein: 0.5 g

 - Fat: 0 g

 - Fiber: 0.5 g

Benefits: Lettuce is low in calories and provides vitamins A and K. It also contains antioxidants and can contribute to overall hydration due to its high water content.

Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Choice)

 - Calories: 110

 - Carbohydrates: 0 g

 - Protein: 7 g

 - Fat: 9 g

Benefits: Cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. It also provides vitamin B12 and can enhance the flavor and richness of dishes.

Salsa

 - Calories: 20

 - Carbohydrates: 4 g

 - Protein: 1 g

 - Fat: 0 g

Benefits: Salsa is low in calories and adds flavor without significant fat or calories. It provides vitamins and antioxidants from ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and peppers.

Vegetable Oil (for frying)

 - Calories: 120

 - Carbohydrates: 0 g

 - Protein: 0 g

 - Fat: 14 g

Benefits: Vegetable oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which can be beneficial for heart health when used in moderation. 

These ingredients together make a balanced dish with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a nutritious meal.