Name: Shrimp Tostada
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 corn tortillas; 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for brushing tortillas); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder or taco seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup refried beans or black beans (optional); 1 avocado or 1/2 cup guacamole; 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage; 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo; 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup queso fresco or shredded cheese (optional); Lime wedges, for serving

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Tostadas are quick to make, colorful to serve, and packed with bright, fresh flavors. The crisp tortilla base holds all the delicious toppings in one handheld bite. Whether you’re looking for a fun weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, these tostadas are satisfying, healthy, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Corn tortillas
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Lime juice
Chili powder or taco seasoning
Salt and pepper
Refried beans or black beans (optional, for base layer)
Avocado or guacamole
Shredded lettuce or cabbage
Salsa or pico de gallo
Sour cream or Mexican crema
Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Queso fresco or shredded cheese (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place corn tortillas on a baking sheet and lightly brush with oil. Bake for 6–8 minutes per side until crispy and golden. Set aside.
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, chili powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Spread a thin layer of refried beans or mashed avocado on each crispy tostada shell.
Add a handful of shredded lettuce or cabbage.
Top with cooked shrimp, followed by salsa or pico de gallo, crema, cheese, and fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 tostadas.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder to the shrimp seasoning.
Tropical Tostadas: Add mango or pineapple salsa for a sweet and spicy twist.
Creamy Base: Use sour cream, chipotle mayo, or a yogurt-based sauce instead of beans or avocado.
Grilled Shrimp: Fire up the grill for smoky, charred shrimp.
Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp with grilled veggies, tofu, or beans.

Storage/Reheating

Store all components separately in the refrigerator.
Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Tostada shells should be kept at room temperature in a sealed bag to stay crispy.
To reheat shrimp, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat.
Assembled tostadas should be eaten immediately, as they will get soggy over time.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought tostada shells?

Yes, store-bought shells work great and save time. Just be sure they’re crisp and fresh.

What kind of shrimp should I use?

Medium or large peeled and deveined shrimp work best. Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp both work well.

Can I make shrimp tostadas ahead of time?

You can prep all components in advance, but assemble just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of shrimp?

Try grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or black beans for a different protein option.

How do I keep the tostadas from getting soggy?

Assemble them right before serving and avoid overloading with wet toppings.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes or until cooked through.

Are shrimp tostadas gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use 100% corn tortillas and gluten-free toppings.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Skip the cheese and crema or use dairy-free alternatives.

What sides go well with shrimp tostadas?

Serve with rice, beans, corn salad, or a fresh fruit salsa.

Can I add rice or grains to the tostada?

You can, but be mindful not to overload the shell. A small amount of rice works best.

Conclusion

Shrimp Tostadas are a quick, delicious, and vibrant meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With crispy tortillas, juicy shrimp, and layers of fresh toppings, they deliver bold flavor and texture in every bite. Easy to customize and even easier to love, these tostadas are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Shrimp Tostada

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Shrimp Tostadas are crispy corn tortillas topped with seasoned shrimp, fresh veggies, and flavorful toppings like salsa, avocado, and crema. A quick and vibrant Mexican-inspired dish perfect for any occasion.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 tostadas
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tortillas on a baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Set aside.
In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Spread refried beans or mashed avocado on each tostada shell.
Top with shredded lettuce or cabbage.
Add shrimp, then spoon over salsa or pico de gallo.
Drizzle with crema or sour cream, sprinkle with cheese and cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Assemble tostadas just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.
You can grill or bake the shrimp for a different flavor.
Store components separately for easy meal prep or leftovers.
Use store-bought tostada shells to save time.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tostada
Calories: 310
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 150mg