Shrimp Avocado Tostadas
Crispy corn tortillas topped with zesty, pan-seared shrimp and creamy avocado mash. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a vibrant weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Tostada Shells
- b.Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers (about 350°F or 175°C).
- c.Working one at a time, carefully place a corn tortilla in the hot oil. Fry for 45-60 seconds per side, using tongs to flip, until it's golden brown and crispy.
- d.Remove the fried tortilla and let it drain on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels. Immediately sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- e.Repeat the process with the remaining 7 tortillas. This should take about 10-12 minutes in total.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Avocado Mash
- b.While the tortillas are frying, prepare the avocado. Halve the avocados, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a medium bowl.
- c.Mash the avocado with a fork to your desired consistency, leaving it slightly chunky for texture.
- d.Stir in the juice of half the lime, half of the chopped cilantro, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well and set aside. The lime juice will prevent browning.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Shrimp
- b.Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
- c.In a separate large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the dry shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper.
- e.Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and curled. Do not overcook.
- f.Remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze the remaining lime juice over the shrimp. Toss to coat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.To assemble, spread a generous layer of the avocado mash onto each crispy tostada shell.
- c.Arrange 4-5 pieces of the cooked shrimp over the avocado.
- d.Garnish with finely chopped red onion, the remaining fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese.
- e.Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of the warm shrimp and crispy shell.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest tostadas, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the tortillas. A small piece of tortilla should sizzle immediately.
- 2To save time, you can use store-bought tostada shells. Simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the shrimp. Cook in two batches if necessary to ensure they sear rather than steam.
- 4Add the lime juice to the avocado mash right away to prevent oxidation and browning.
- 5For a smokier flavor, use chipotle powder instead of regular chili powder.
- 6Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeño to the shrimp or avocado mash.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the shrimp with diced chicken breast, flaked cod, or seasoned black beans for a vegetarian option.
Add More VeggiesAdd More Veggies
Top the tostadas with extra vegetables like roasted corn, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or pickled red onions for more flavor and crunch.
Creamy SauceCreamy Sauce
Drizzle a chipotle-lime crema over the top. Mix 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt with 1 tsp adobo sauce (from a can of chipotles), a squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
Cheese VariationCheese Variation
If you can't find cotija, you can use crumbled feta or queso fresco as a substitute.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Shrimp is a high-quality, lean protein source that is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting muscle mass.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Avocados are packed with monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels, lowering your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Good Source of Fiber
The combination of avocado and corn tortillas provides a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps you feel full and satisfied.
Contains Key Minerals
Shrimp is a great source of selenium, an important antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage, as well as iodine, which is crucial for thyroid function.
Frequently asked questions
One serving, which consists of two tostadas, contains approximately 550-650 calories. The exact number can vary based on the size of the tortillas and avocados, and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.