Name: Shrimp Tostadas Summer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For the Shrimp:; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lime juice; For the Tostadas:; 12 corn tortillas; 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying; For the Black Bean Spread:; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1/4 cup chopped red onion; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon cumin; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; For the Mango Salsa:; 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional); 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 2 tablespoons lime juice; Salt to taste; For the Avocado Crema:; 1 ripe avocado

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

These shrimp tostadas are a vibrant and satisfying dish, combining crispy corn tortillas with spiced shrimp, a creamy black bean spread, fresh mango salsa, and cool avocado crema. A fiesta in every bite, these tostadas make the perfect meal for a sunny day or a fun family dinner.

Shrimp Tostadas Summer

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp tostadas are bursting with flavor and texture. The crispy tortillas create the perfect crunch, while the seasoned shrimp adds a juicy, savory layer. The black bean spread brings a creamy richness, and the mango salsa provides a sweet, refreshing contrast to the spices. Topped with cool avocado crema, these tostadas are an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

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

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lime juice

For the Tostadas:

12 corn tortillas
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying

For the Black Bean Spread:

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon cumin
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa:

1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 tablespoons lime juice
Salt to taste

For the Avocado Crema:

1 ripe avocado
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon water (or more, to thin)
Salt to taste

Additional Toppings:

Shredded lettuce or cabbage
Crumbled cotija cheese or queso fresco
Hot sauce
Lime wedges

directions

Season the Shrimp:
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices.
Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Once cooked, squeeze lime juice over the shrimp and toss to coat. Set aside.
Fry the Tortillas:
- Heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the corn tortillas, one or two at a time, for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Black Bean Spread:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the black beans, chopped red onion, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a tablespoon or two of water to help it blend. Taste and adjust the seasonings. Set aside.
Prepare the Mango Salsa:
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
- Gently toss to combine. Chill for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Prepare the Avocado Crema:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, water, and salt.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Chill for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Assemble the Tostadas:
- Spread a generous layer of the black bean spread on each fried tostada.
- If using, add a layer of shredded lettuce or cabbage on top.
- Arrange the cooked shrimp evenly over the lettuce or cabbage.
- Spoon a generous amount of mango salsa over the shrimp.
- Drizzle with avocado crema.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with crumbled cotija cheese or queso fresco, a drizzle of hot sauce, and lime wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 tostadas
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and jalapeño to your desired heat level.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shrimp with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn for a veggie-packed tostada.
Grilled Shrimp: For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet.
Toppings: Add pickled onions, pickled jalapeños, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Tostadas are best served fresh for the ultimate crispiness. If you have leftover components, store them separately in airtight containers. The shrimp, black bean spread, and salsa can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat the shrimp before serving, and assemble the tostadas just before eating for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought tostadas?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-made tostadas. Just warm them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Can I make the black bean spread ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the black bean spread a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

Can I substitute the avocado crema with something else?

Yes, you can use a simple sour cream or Greek yogurt topping if you prefer, though the avocado crema adds a creamy, rich texture.

What other toppings can I add to the tostadas?

Try adding a sprinkle of cilantro, a dollop of guacamole, or a few slices of radish for extra crunch.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper, chili powder, and jalapeños to fit your taste. You can also omit the hot sauce if you prefer less heat.

Conclusion

These shrimp tostadas are a flavorful and vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer meals or any time you want to add a fiesta to your dinner. With the combination of spiced shrimp, creamy black bean spread, refreshing mango salsa, and smooth avocado crema, each bite is a burst of fresh flavors and textures. Serve these tostadas at your next gathering, and watch them disappear!