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