Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Bean Tostadas or Mexican Pizza



I believe that sometimes we over think food. Or at least, I do. Meals don't have to be overly complicated and take a lot of time and effort to prepare. Some of the most delicious foods are things that are prepared simply and allow the ingredients to just be yummy on their own. 

I think this "recipe" is one of the dishes. It comes together quickly and easily and you can pretty much add anything you want to it. You can prepare it as simply as you want for kids or picky eaters and you can get as fancy as you are feeling for adults or dinner guests. I love recipes that allow for so much customization for individual eaters. 


Ingredients

Tostada Shells (purchased or make you own by baking at 200 until crispy)
Refried Beans (and/or taco beef or chicken)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings:
Guacamole, green onions, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, olives, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes etc


Directions

If you are making your own tostada shells, take your tortillas and spray both sides lightly with cooking spray. Put them on a tray and into the oven at 200 degrees. They will crisp up nicely in about 5 minutes. 




 Spread a layer of beans on top of the tostada shells.

Sprinkle with meat if you are using.

Top with shredded cheddar cheese.



 Bake at 350 degrees for 5-8 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Remove from oven and cut each tostada into 4 wedges.

Serve with optional toppings if desired.


We eat these all sorts of ways. Honestly my favorite way is with ketchup, I know that sounds strange, but it is so delicious. Some of my kids like to load them up with everything they can find and others eat them with just the beans and cheese. 

Meals don't have to be complicated and cost a lot of money. Simple dishes made with simple ingredients can really help your menu planning as well as your grocery budget. Enjoy!!