These spicy tostadas feature a crispy corn tortilla base topped with flavorful ingredients like refried beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy quick-pickled onions, and the standout addition of King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines with Hot Jalapeño Peppers. A quick and simple recipe that’s ready in just 25 minutes, these tostadas bring a delightful fusion of heat and freshness to your table.
Start with a Friendly Greeting
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a bold and exciting dish—Spicy Tostadas with King Oscar Sardines. If you love the combination of crunchy, spicy, and tangy flavors, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for quick meals or as a fun appetizer for your next gathering, these tostadas are a delicious way to bring new excitement to your mealtime.
Introduction
These Spicy Tostadas with King Oscar Sardines are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican tostadas. By combining the briny goodness of sardines with spicy jalapeños and the creaminess of refried beans, this dish offers a unique flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Tostadas have long been a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their versatility and ease of preparation, and this version adds a gourmet touch with premium ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, these tostadas are sure to impress.
For more exciting recipes like this one, check out this hearty cowboy casserole or these Red Lobster-inspired sausage balls.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this spicy and delicious recipe:
- 1/2 cup olive or avocado oil (for frying the tortillas, or skip if using ready-made tostada shells)
- 4 corn tortillas
- 1 can King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines with Hot Jalapeño Peppers (drained)
- 4 cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (preferably mandolin-sliced)
- 1 lime, juiced (for quick pickling the onions)
- 1/2 of a 16 oz can of refried beans (pinto or black beans, your choice)
- 4 tablespoons crumbled cotija cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Optional substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option, replace cotija cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
- Swap out sardines for grilled chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.
How to Make Spicy Tostadas – Step by Step
Step 1: Quick Pickling the Onions
Place the thinly sliced onions in a small bowl and squeeze the lime juice over them. Toss to coat and set aside for a quick pickle. The acidity from the lime gives the onions a tangy flavor, perfect for topping your tostadas.
Step 2: Frying the Corn Tortillas
Heat the olive or avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the tortilla, usually about 1/2 cup. When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the corn tortilla in with tongs and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set the tortillas on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 3: Preparing the Toppings
Heat a small skillet over medium-high heat and warm the refried beans until smooth. Spread a generous layer of beans over each crispy tortilla, being careful not to crack them.
Step 4: Assembling the Tostadas
Now for the fun part! Top the bean-covered tortillas with sardines, quartered cherry tomatoes, quick-pickled onions, and crumbled cotija cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes elevate the flavor of this dish.
- Try different proteins: If sardines aren’t your favorite, substitute with grilled shrimp, chicken, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Adjust the spice: If you love spice, add more jalapeño slices or drizzle with hot sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Frying technique: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding tortillas to get that perfect crispiness without being greasy. Test with a small drop of water—if it sizzles, you’re ready.
- Layer carefully: When adding the toppings, be gentle with the tostadas to avoid cracking. Spread the beans evenly, creating a sturdy base for the other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
These spicy tostadas pair beautifully with a refreshing margarita or cold beer. For sides, consider serving with Mexican street corn, guacamole, or a light green salad to complement the richness of the dish. They also make great appetizers before a Mexican-inspired meal like tacos or enchiladas.
Nutritional Information
These nutritional values are based on one serving (one tostada):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fats: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Vitamin A: 6% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
Storage and Leftovers
To store any leftover tostadas, keep the toppings and tortillas separate to prevent sogginess. Store the tortillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The toppings can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days. When reheating, crisp the tortillas in a hot oven or skillet for a few minutes before assembling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought tostada shells?
Yes! Store-bought shells save time and are just as crispy. Look for them in the tortilla section of your grocery store.
2. What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to customize your tostadas with avocado slices, radishes, or pickled jalapeños for extra heat.
3. Are sardines healthy?
Yes, sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and protein, making them a nutritious choice.
4. Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sardines with grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein like black beans or tofu.
Related Recipes
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole: A hearty meal that pairs well with a tostada side.
- Grilled Chicken Tacos
: Perfect for taco night or tostada swaps.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this flavorful take on Spicy Tostadas with King Oscar Sardines. Whether you’re a fan of sardines or just love spicy, tangy dishes, this recipe is a great way to add variety to your meals. Let us know how you liked it or share your own twist by commenting below. Happy cooking!
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Spicy Tostadas with King Oscar Sardines | Easy Recipe
Description
These spicy tostadas feature a crispy corn tortilla base topped with flavorful ingredients like refried beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy quick-pickled onions, and the standout addition of King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines with Hot Jalapeño Peppers. A quick and simple recipe that’s ready in just 25 minutes, these tostadas bring a delightful fusion of heat and freshness to your table.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive or avocado oil (for frying the tortillas, or skip if using ready-made tostada shells)
- 4 corn tortillas
- 1 can King Oscar’s Brisling Sardines with Hot Jalapeño Peppers (drained)
- 4 cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (preferably mandolin-sliced)
- 1 lime, juiced (for quick pickling the onions)
- 1/2 of a 16 oz can of refried beans (pinto or black beans, your choice)
- 4 tablespoons crumbled cotija cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Optional substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option, replace cotija cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
- Swap out sardines for grilled chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.
Instructions
Step 1: Quick Pickling the Onions
Place the thinly sliced onions in a small bowl and squeeze the lime juice over them. Toss to coat and set aside for a quick pickle. The acidity from the lime gives the onions a tangy flavor, perfect for topping your tostadas.
Step 2: Frying the Corn Tortillas
Heat the olive or avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the tortilla, usually about 1/2 cup. When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the corn tortilla in with tongs and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set the tortillas on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 3: Preparing the Toppings
Heat a small skillet over medium-high heat and warm the refried beans until smooth. Spread a generous layer of beans over each crispy tortilla, being careful not to crack them.
Step 4: Assembling the Tostadas
Now for the fun part! Top the bean-covered tortillas with sardines, quartered cherry tomatoes, quick-pickled onions, and crumbled cotija cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes elevate the flavor of this dish.
- Try different proteins: If sardines aren’t your favorite, substitute with grilled shrimp, chicken, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Adjust the spice: If you love spice, add more jalapeño slices or drizzle with hot sauce
