What Do You Eat with Tostadas?

Tostadas are one of those amazing Mexican dishes that you can dress up or down, depending on your mood and what you have in the fridge. Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or just starting out, tostadas are an easy, fun, and delicious option for any meal. But the question is: what do you eat with tostadas? This guide is going to cover everything you need to know, from the best toppings and sides to drinks and desserts that will elevate your tostada game. Let’s dive in!

What Exactly Are Tostadas?

If you’re new to the tostada game, let’s break it down. A tostada is essentially a flat, crispy tortilla. It’s like a taco’s open-faced cousin. You take a tortilla, fry it or bake it until it’s crispy, and then pile it high with all sorts of delicious toppings. It’s super versatile, so whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or something more filling and hearty, there’s a tostada combo out there for you.

For those looking for more Mexican dish inspirations, you can also check out this Mexican Alambre Recipe. It’s another classic that pairs well with tostadas and is just as customizable!

Popular Toppings for Tostadas: The Basics and Beyond

Beans: The Foundation of Any Good Tostada

• Refried Beans: These are a staple for any tostada. They provide a creamy, savory base that helps hold all the other toppings in place. Plus, they’re packed with flavor.
• Black Beans: If you want a healthier option, go for whole black beans. They add a nice texture and are perfect for vegetarian tostadas.

Meats: For the Carnivores Out There

• Shredded Chicken: You can’t go wrong with shredded chicken. Season it with some cumin, chili powder, and a bit of lime juice for a zesty kick.
• Beef or Pork: Pulled beef or pork adds a hearty element to your tostadas. Slow-cooked, seasoned to perfection, and piled high on your crispy tortilla—what’s not to love?
• Seafood: Shrimp, fish, or even a tangy ceviche can make your tostadas feel a little more sophisticated. Top it with some avocado slices and a squeeze of lime, and you’re good to go.

Fresh Vegetables: Crunch and Color

• Lettuce: Shredded iceberg or romaine gives your tostada that satisfying crunch.
• Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add juiciness and a fresh, tangy flavor.
• Onions: Whether you like them raw, pickled, or caramelized, onions are a must.
• Avocado: Slice it, mash it, or make guacamole—avocado adds creaminess that complements the crunch of the tostada.

Cheese: Because Everything’s Better with Cheese

• Queso Fresco: This crumbly, mild cheese is a classic choice for tostadas.
• Cotija: A bit saltier and firmer than queso fresco, cotija adds a burst of flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack: If you want a more melty, gooey experience, these cheeses are perfect.

Salsas and Sauces: Spice It Up!

• Pico de Gallo: Fresh, chunky, and perfect for adding a burst of flavor.
• Guacamole: Creamy, rich, and a perfect contrast to the crunch of the tostada.
• Hot Sauce: Whether you like it mild or face-meltingly hot, a good hot sauce ties everything together.

Side Dishes That Will Make Your Tostada Meal Complete

Okay, so now you’ve got your tostadas loaded up with all the good stuff. What about the sides? Pairing your tostadas with the right side dishes can take your meal to the next level. Here are some classic sides that will complement your tostadas perfectly:

1. Rice-Based Sides: Filling and Flavorful

• Mexican Rice: This is a must-have. Cooked with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a bit of cumin, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any tostada. It’s light but filling, and the flavors work well with just about any topping combination.
• Cilantro-Lime Rice: A lighter option that’s a bit zesty and perfect for seafood tostadas. The lime and cilantro add a fresh pop of flavor that balances out the richness of the toppings.

2. Bean-Based Sides: Because You Can Never Have Too Many Beans

• Refried Beans: Yup, these beans do double duty. Use them as a topping or serve them on the side. They’re creamy, savory, and just plain delicious.
• Black Beans: Season them with cumin, garlic, and a bit of lime juice, and you’ve got a simple, protein-packed side dish that pairs well with everything.

3. Salads and Vegetables: Light and Refreshing

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: If you haven’t tried this yet, you’re missing out. It’s a mix of corn, mayo, cheese, and spices, and it’s the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and spicy.
• Cucumber Avocado Salad: Cool, creamy, and crunchy. It’s a great way to balance out the richness of the tostadas.
• Jicama Slaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw that adds a refreshing bite to your meal. The crispiness of the jicama is a nice contrast to the crispy tostada.

4. Soups: For When You Need a Little Extra Comfort

• Chicken Tortilla Soup: This is basically comfort in a bowl. A flavorful broth, shredded chicken, and crispy tortilla strips make this a perfect pairing.
• Black Bean Soup: Thick, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s a great vegetarian option that’s still super filling.
• Sopa de Fideo: This Mexican noodle soup is light but satisfying. It’s a good option if you want something warm but not too heavy.

Drinks That Pair Perfectly with Tostadas

The right drink can make your tostada meal even better. Whether you’re looking for something non-alcoholic or a cocktail to sip on, we’ve got you covered.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Refreshing and Delicious

• Horchata: A creamy, sweet drink made from rice, milk, and cinnamon. It’s perfect for cooling down your mouth if you went a little too heavy on the hot sauce.
• Agua Fresca: These fruit-based drinks are light and refreshing. Try watermelon, tamarind, or hibiscus for a fun, fruity twist.
• Mexican Hot Chocolate: If you’re having tostadas for dinner on a chilly night, this spiced hot chocolate is the perfect cozy drink.

Alcoholic Options: Because Sometimes You Need a Little Buzz

• Margaritas: You can’t go wrong with a classic lime margarita. Or mix it up with flavors like mango or strawberry. The tartness and sweetness balance out the savory flavors of the tostadas.
• Micheladas: If you like your beer with a bit of a kick, a michelada is the way to go. It’s like a spicy, savory beer cocktail that pairs perfectly with any Mexican dish.
• Mexican Beer: Sometimes simple is best. A cold Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico is the perfect complement to your meal.

Sweet Endings: Desserts That Go Great with Tostadas

After you’ve piled your tostada high with all those delicious toppings and sides, you’re going to want something sweet to finish things off. Here are some classic Mexican desserts that are sure to hit the spot:

Churros: Crispy, Sweet, and Impossible to Resist

• Fried dough rolled in cinnamon sugar, often served with a side of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping. If you’re looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth, churros are the way to go.

Flan: Creamy Caramel Goodness

• This creamy caramel custard is rich and smooth with a hint of vanilla. It’s light enough to not feel heavy but decadent enough to feel like a treat.

Tres Leches Cake: A Moist, Milky Delight

• This sponge cake is soaked in three types of milk and topped with whipped cream. It’s sweet, moist, and absolutely delicious.

Arroz con Leche: Comfort in a Bowl

• This rice pudding is flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. It’s warm, comforting, and the perfect way to end a meal.

FAQs About Tostadas

What are the best side dishes for tostadas?

• The best sides for tostadas are Mexican rice, refried beans, and a refreshing salad like Mexican street corn or cucumber avocado salad. These sides complement the flavors of the tostadas and make for a well-rounded meal.

What drinks go well with tostadas?

• For non-alcoholic options, go with horchata or agua fresca. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, a classic margarita or a michelada will do the trick.

Are tostadas healthy?

• Tostadas can be as healthy as you want them to be! Use baked tortillas instead of fried, load up on veggies, and go easy on the cheese and sour cream. They’re a great way to get a lot of nutrients in one meal.

Can I make vegetarian tostadas?

• Absolutely! Start with a base of beans, then add all your favorite veggies. Top with cheese and a good salsa, and you’ve got yourself a delicious vegetarian meal.

How do you keep tostadas from getting soggy?

• Serve the toppings and tostadas separately, and let everyone build their own right before eating. Also, a quick re-toast in the oven can help crisp them up again.

How to Set Up a DIY Tostada Bar: Perfect for Parties!

If you’re hosting a party or just want to have some fun with family or friends, a DIY tostada bar is a fantastic idea. It’s interactive, customizable, and lets everyone get exactly what they want. Here’s how to set one up:

1: The Tostadas

• Buy or make your own tostadas. If you’re making them, just fry or bake corn tortillas until they’re crispy and golden.

2: The Base

• Provide a few different options for the base. Refried beans, black beans, and a variety of meats (like shredded chicken, beef, or pork) work great. If you want to go vegetarian, add some seasoned tofu or sautéed mushrooms.

3: The Toppings

• This is where you can really go wild. Lay out bowls of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, sliced avocado, and a variety of cheeses. Don’t forget the salsas and hot sauces!

4: The Sides

• Set out some rice, beans, and a couple of salads. This gives people more options to build their perfect plate.

5: Drinks and Desserts

• Have a few drink options like aguas frescas, margaritas, or beers. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with a platter of churros or a big dish of tres leches cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Serving Tostadas

Even though tostadas are pretty foolproof, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

• Using the Wrong Type of Tortilla: Make sure you’re using corn tortillas. Flour tortillas don’t get as crispy and can become soggy quickly.
• Overloading the Tostada: It’s tempting to pile on the toppings, but remember, it’s still a finger food. Too many toppings can make it hard to eat and lead to a soggy mess.
• Not Prepping Toppings in Advance: Tostadas are best served fresh and crispy. Have all your toppings ready to go before you start assembling.

LSI and NLP Keywords for Tostadas

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Conclusion: Get Creative with Your Tostada Game

There you have it, folks! Tostadas are a fantastic, versatile dish that can be customized to fit any taste or dietary need. Whether you’re sticking to traditional toppings, experimenting with new flavors, or setting up a DIY tostada bar, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious Mexican favorite.

So grab some tortillas, fire up the stove, and start building your perfect tostada. And remember, the most important ingredient is to have fun and get creative! For more Mexican recipe ideas, check out this Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe. It’s the perfect side dish to serve with your tostadas!

Now, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get cooking!