Recipe Date: July 21, 2025

Cook Time: 00:00:00

Difficulty: Easy

Measurements: Imperial (US)

At our recent "Salsa Under the Stars" event, we set up a tostadas bar that was an absolute hit with our guests. It was incredibly easy to arrange and flexible enough for everyone to create their perfect combination. The versatility made it an ideal pairing with both our 2023 Oro de Plata Chardonnay and our 2022 La Cruz Pinot Noir. Now you can recreate this crowd-pleasing experience at home!

Ingredients

• 1 lb carnitas, warmed (or pulled pork)
• 2 cups roasted chicken, shredded or diced
• 10 corn tortillas or pre-made tostada shells
• 1 can refried beans
• 2 cups Mexican cheese (queso cotija, fresco or Monterey Jack), crumbled or shredded
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (backup option)
• Lettuce, shredded
• Fresh tomatoes, diced
• Sour cream
• Avocado slices
• Lime wedges

Directions

Prepare the Onions

For the onions, slice them into thin rings and let them marinate in the juice from the can of jalapeños for at least 15 minutes to absorb that tangy, spicy flavor. If that's too spicy for your taste, simply use red onion sliced thin and marinated in 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar instead.

Make the Tostada Shells

If using corn tortillas, brush both sides with oil
Bake at 400°F for 5-8 minutes per side until golden and crispy
Or use pre-made tostada shells

Assembly

Warm the refried beans and spread a thin layer on each tostada shell
Layer on the warmed carnitas and roasted chicken
Sprinkle generously with Mexican cheese
Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and your marinated onions
Finish with dollops of sour cream, avocado slices and serve with lime wedges

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the meats entirely and load up with extra refried beans or black beans for a hearty vegetarian tostada
Single Meat Options: Use only chicken or only carnitas if you prefer - both work beautifully on their own
Mix and Match: Let guests choose their preferred protein combination

Serving Tips

Serve immediately while shells are still crispy
Let guests customize their own toppings
Have extra napkins ready - these are wonderfully messy!
Pairs beautifully with a chilled bottle of Oro de Plata Chardonnay or La Cruz Pinot Noir

Serves 4-6 people

Pair Your Tostada with Gold

Create a fiesta of flavors with freshly-made tostadas paired with our 2023 Oro de Plata Chardonnay. Made from 100% estate grown chardonnay grapes (gold) that are fermented solely in stainless steel tank (silver) to produce a crisp, vibrant, unoaked chardonnay. Salud!