Name: Grilled Shrimp Tostadas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For Guacamole:; 1 medium Hass avocados; ½ plum tomato; ½ lime; 2 tbsp red onion; 1 small clove garlic; ½ tbsp cilantro; kosher salt and fresh pepper; For Tostada:; 16 jumbo shrimp; 1 garlic; 2 tbsp prepared salsa verde; 4 tostada shells; 1 cup romaine lettuce; 1 cup refried beans; For Optional Toppings:; extra salsa verde; 2 tbsp queso blacno

Indulge in the delightful flavors of grilled shrimp tostadas, a perfect blend of fresh and zesty ingredients. This dish brings together succulent shrimp, creamy guacamole, and crispy tostada shells, making it an irresistible treat for any meal.

grilled shrimp tostadas recipe with Cotija

Photos of Grilled Shrimp Tostadas Recipe

For this recipe, you might need to visit the supermarket for a few ingredients that aren't typically found in every pantry. Ensure you have tostada shells, salsa verde, and queso blanco on hand. These items are crucial for achieving the authentic taste and texture of the dish.

Ingredients For Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

hass avocados: The creamy base for your guacamole, providing rich flavor and texture.

plum tomato: Adds a fresh and slightly acidic taste to the guacamole.

lime: Provides zesty flavor and helps prevent the avocado from browning.

red onion: Adds a sharp, tangy bite to the guacamole.

cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a distinct, aromatic flavor.

garlic: Enhances the taste with its deep, savory notes.

kosher salt: Used for seasoning to enhance overall flavors.

fresh pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness to the dish.

jumbo shrimp: The star of the dish, providing a succulent and savory seafood element.

salsa verde: A tangy, green sauce that adds depth and brightness to the shrimp.

tostada shells: Crispy base for the toppings, providing texture and support.

romaine lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness to the tostada.

refried beans: Creamy and flavorful, providing a hearty layer on the tostada.

queso blanco: An optional topping, offering a mild, creamy cheese flavor.

One reader, Avril Ernst says:

The grilled shrimp tostadas were a hit! The shrimp were perfectly seasoned and paired wonderfully with the fresh guacamole. The combination of flavors and textures made each bite delightful. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Avril Ernst

Techniques for Perfecting Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

How to soak skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. How to mash avocados: Use a fork or a potato masher to slightly mash the avocado pulp, leaving some large chunks for texture. How to thread shrimp onto skewers: After seasoning, carefully thread the shrimp onto the skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking. How to grill shrimp: Preheat the grill or indoor grill pan to medium flame, spray the grates with oil, and grill the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until cooked through.

How To Make Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

Crispy tostada for the base, a smear of refried beans, layers of guacamole, and finally topped with grilled shrimp skewers! Now that’s a snack!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Guacamole:

1mediumhass avocados,halved
½plum tomato,seeded and diced
½lime,juiced
2tbspred onion,minced
1smallclove garlic,mashed
½tbspcilantro,chopped
kosher salt and fresh pepper,to taste

For Tostada:

16jumboshrimp,¾ lb, shelled and deveined
1garlic,crushed
2tbspprepared salsa verde,or homemade salsa verde
4tostada shells
1cupromaine lettuce,shredded
1cuprefried beans,canned, fat free, love Trader Joe’s

For Optional Toppings:

extra salsa verde,for topping
2tbspqueso blacno,crumbled, optional

Instructions

If cooking outside on the grill, soak skewers at least 30 minutes.
In a medium bowl, place the pulp from the avocados and slightly mash with a fork or a potato masher leaving some large chunks.
Add tomato, lime juice, salt, pepper, cilantro, red onion, garlic and mix thoroughly.
Season shrimp with salt, then mix in crushed garlic and 2 tbsp salsa verde. Thread the shrimp onto 4 skewers.
Light the grill or indoor grill pan on medium flame, when hot spray the grates with oil and grill the shrimp about 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Set aside.
Place a tostada on each plate, top each with 1/4 cup refried beans spread evenly, 1/4 cup lettuce and guacamole.
Top each with a shrimp skewer on top and serve with extra salsa verde and cheese if using.

Nutrition

Calories: 252.47kcal
Fat: 13.19g
Saturated Fat: 3.20g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.59g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.44g
Carbohydrates: 25.84g
Fiber: 7.38g
Sugar: 1.87g
Protein: 10.86g
Cholesterol: 44.65mg
Sodium: 580.24mg
Calcium: 101.89mg
Potassium: 620.22mg
Iron: 1.83mg
Vitamin A: 79.50µg
Vitamin C: 15.94mg

Expert Tip for Grilling Shrimp for Tostadas

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly grilled, make sure they are all similar in size for even cooking. Additionally, avoid overcooking by grilling them just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes per side. This will keep them juicy and tender.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shrimp Tostadas

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop red onion, cilantro, and garlic ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-made components: Opt for store-bought salsa verde and refried beans to cut down on prep time.

Grill efficiently: Soak skewers and season shrimp while the grill heats up to save minutes.

Assemble tostadas quickly: Lay out all components like tostada shells, lettuce, and guacamole for easy assembly.

Double up: Grill extra shrimp for future meals to save time on another day.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Shrimp Tostadas Recipe

hass avocados - Substitute with mashed peas: Mashed peas provide a similar creamy texture and a mild flavor that can mimic the richness of avocados.
plum tomato - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes offer a similar sweetness and juiciness, and can be chopped to match the size of plum tomato pieces.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it is slightly more tart than lime.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity to provide a similar taste.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in smaller quantities to provide the same garlicky flavor.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can stand in for cilantro, though it lacks the citrusy notes.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a good alternative.
fresh pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar spiciness and can be used in the same quantity.
jumbo shrimp - Substitute with large prawns: Large prawns have a similar texture and flavor, making them a suitable replacement.
prepared salsa verde - Substitute with tomatillo sauce: Tomatillo sauce offers a similar tangy and slightly spicy flavor profile.
tostada shells - Substitute with baked tortillas: Baked tortillas can be crisped up to provide a similar crunchy base for the tostadas.
romaine lettuce - Substitute with iceberg lettuce: Iceberg lettuce provides a similar crunch and mild flavor.
refried beans - Substitute with black bean puree: Black bean puree offers a similar creamy texture and earthy flavor.
extra salsa verde - Substitute with pico de gallo: Pico de gallo provides a fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy topping.
queso blanco - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese offers a similar crumbly texture and a slightly tangy flavor.

Plating Ideas for Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

Use a large, white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the grilled shrimp, guacamole, and salsa verde pop, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Create a base layer: Spread a thin, even layer of refried beans on each tostada shell, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This will provide a solid foundation for the other ingredients.
Add a bed of lettuce: Place a small mound of finely shredded romaine lettuce on top of the refried beans, slightly off-center to add dimension and height to the dish.
Artfully arrange the guacamole: Use a small scoop to place a dollop of guacamole on top of the lettuce, allowing some of the lettuce to peek out from underneath. This adds texture and color contrast.
Position the shrimp skewer: Lay the shrimp skewer diagonally across the tostada, ensuring the shrimp are evenly spaced and slightly overlapping. This creates a dynamic visual line that draws the eye across the plate.
Drizzle with salsa verde: Using a small spoon, drizzle extra salsa verde in a zigzag pattern over the shrimp and tostada. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the flavor profile.
Sprinkle with queso blanco: Crumble queso blanco over the top of the tostada, allowing some pieces to fall onto the plate. This adds a creamy texture and a pop of white color.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Finish with a few sprigs of fresh cilantro placed strategically around the plate. This adds a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shrimp Tostadas

Skewers: Used for threading the shrimp to make grilling easier and more uniform.
Medium bowl: For mashing the avocado and mixing the guacamole ingredients.
Fork or potato masher: To slightly mash the avocado while leaving some large chunks.
Knife: For chopping the tomato, red onion, garlic, and cilantro.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.
Grill or indoor grill pan: For grilling the shrimp to perfection.
Oil spray: To coat the grill grates and prevent the shrimp from sticking.
Plates: For assembling and serving the tostadas.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the salsa verde, red onion, and cilantro accurately.
Tongs: For turning the shrimp on the grill.
Spoon: For spreading the refried beans on the tostada shells.
Serving spoon: To add guacamole and other toppings to the tostadas.

Storing and Freezing Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

To store leftover grilled shrimp tostadas, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The tostada shells may lose their crispness over time, so it's best to store the components separately and assemble them just before serving.
If you have leftover guacamole, place it in a bowl and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
To freeze the grilled shrimp, remove them from the skewers and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
It's not recommended to freeze the tostada shells, guacamole, or refried beans as they may lose their texture and quality upon thawing.
To reheat the grilled shrimp, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
Assemble the tostadas with the reheated shrimp, fresh guacamole, and other toppings just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating Leftover Shrimp Tostadas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled shrimp on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Brush the shrimp with a little olive oil or butter to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through and sizzling.
For a quick and easy reheat, microwave the grilled shrimp in 30-second intervals until they're warm. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make the shrimp rubbery and tough. To prevent the shrimp from drying out, place a damp paper towel over them while microwaving.
If you have a few extra minutes, reheat the grilled shrimp in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan, and sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they're heated through. This method will help the shrimp retain their flavor and texture.
To reheat the tostada shells, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-5 minutes, or until they're crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side.
If you have leftover guacamole, store it in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning. When ready to serve, give the guacamole a quick stir and taste for seasoning, adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper if needed.
Reheat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until they're heated through. You can also reheat them in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Once all the components are reheated, assemble the tostadas by spreading a layer of warm refried beans on each tostada shell, followed by the lettuce, guacamole, and grilled shrimp. Serve immediately with extra salsa verde and queso blanco, if desired.

Interesting Trivia About Shrimp Tostadas

A fun fact about this grilled shrimp tostadas recipe is that tostadas are a traditional Mexican dish that dates back to pre-Columbian times. They were originally made to use up stale tortillas, which were then fried to create a crunchy base for various toppings.

Budget-Friendly Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

This grilled shrimp tostadas recipe is moderately cost-effective. The main ingredients like shrimp, avocados, and tostada shells can be a bit pricey, but the use of refried beans and romaine lettuce balances the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Shrimp Tostada Recipe Healthy?

This grilled shrimp tostada recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-dense ingredients like avocado, tomato, lime, onion, garlic, and cilantro in the guacamole. Shrimp is a lean protein source, and the recipe uses salsa verde, which can be a low-calorie and flavorful addition. The lettuce adds a fresh crunch and extra vitamins and minerals.

However, the recipe also includes some less healthy components. Tostada shells are typically deep-fried, which adds unnecessary fat and calories. Refried beans, depending on the preparation method, can be high in fat and sodium. The optional queso blanco topping is also likely to be high in fat and calories.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole grain or baked tostada shells instead of deep-fried ones to reduce the fat and calorie content
Opt for low-fat or fat-free refried beans to decrease the overall fat content of the dish
Limit the amount of cheese used as a topping, or choose a lower-fat cheese option
Add more vegetables to the tostada, such as sliced bell peppers or radishes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use a homemade salsa verde to control the sodium content and ensure no added sugars or preservatives are present

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that is also more aligned with a healthy eating pattern.

Editor's Opinion on This Grilled Shrimp Tostada Recipe

This grilled shrimp tostadas recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The creamy guacamole, with its fresh cilantro and zesty lime, pairs beautifully with the smoky, succulent shrimp. The crunch of the tostada shell adds a satisfying contrast to the smooth refried beans and crisp romaine lettuce. The optional queso blanco and extra salsa verde provide a customizable touch, enhancing the dish's complexity. Overall, it's a vibrant, well-balanced dish perfect for a summer meal or casual gathering.

Enhance Your Grilled Shrimp Tostadas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Imagine a vibrant corn salad that dances on your taste buds with a symphony of flavors! This side dish features charred corn kernels, creamy cotija cheese, a hint of lime, and a sprinkle of chili powder. It's a fiesta in every bite, perfectly complementing your grilled shrimp tostadas.

Mango Jicama Slaw: Add a refreshing crunch to your meal with a slaw that combines the sweetness of mango with the crispness of jicama. Tossed in a zesty citrus dressing, this side dish brings a burst of tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory shrimp.

Black Bean and Corn Soup: Warm up with a hearty bowl of soup that features a rich blend of black beans, corn, and a medley of spices. This comforting dish adds a depth of flavor and a touch of warmth to your tostada feast.

Pineapple Salsa: Brighten your plate with a salsa that combines juicy pineapple, red bell peppers, and a hint of jalapeño. This sweet and spicy concoction adds a tropical twist and a burst of color to your meal, making each bite an adventure.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy churros dusted in cinnamon sugar and served with a rich chocolate sauce. This delightful dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, providing a satisfying conclusion to your culinary journey.

Similar Recipes to Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Dive into these zesty shrimp tacos that pack a punch with a spicy marinade. Topped with crisp cabbage slaw and a drizzle of chipotle mayo, these tacos are a fiesta in every bite.

Chicken Tinga Tostadas: Experience the rich flavors of chicken tinga on a crispy tostada shell. This dish features shredded chicken simmered in a smoky tomato sauce, topped with avocado slices and cotija cheese.

Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa: These fish tacos are a tropical delight, featuring flaky white fish grilled to perfection and topped with a vibrant mango salsa. A squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cilantro complete this refreshing dish.

Beef Barbacoa Tostadas: Savor the deep, rich flavors of beef barbacoa on a crunchy tostada. Slow-cooked beef is shredded and piled high, then garnished with pickled red onions and a dollop of sour cream.

Vegetarian Black Bean Tostadas: For a meat-free option, try these vegetarian tostadas loaded with black beans, corn, and bell peppers. Topped with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of feta cheese, they are both hearty and satisfying.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Grilled Shrimp Tostadas

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Delight your guests with these vibrant stuffed mini bell peppers. The bell peppers are filled with a creamy mixture of goat cheese, herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. The crunchy texture of the peppers contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling, creating a harmonious bite. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped chives and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance.

Crispy Avocado Bites: Introduce a twist to your appetizer spread with these crispy avocado bites. Slices of ripe avocado are coated in a panko breadcrumb mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Serve with a side of spicy aioli or cilantro-lime dipping sauce to elevate the flavors. The creamy avocado interior paired with the crunchy exterior makes for an irresistible combination that will leave your guests craving more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent chocolate lava cake that features a warm, gooey center of rich chocolate. This dessert pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries for an elegant touch.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a tangy lemon meringue pie. The crisp, buttery pie crust is filled with a zesty lemon curd and topped with a fluffy, golden-brown meringue. The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes this dessert a refreshing end to any meal. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a twist of lemon zest for added flair.

Why trust this Grilled Shrimp Tostadas Recipe:

This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of grilled shrimp, fresh guacamole, and salsa verde to create a delightful tostada. The use of jumbo shrimp ensures a juicy and satisfying bite, while the refried beans and romaine lettuce add texture and freshness. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks, and the ingredients are easy to find. Trust this recipe for a delicious and authentic Mexican-inspired dish.

Want to share your own twist on this Grilled Shrimp Tostadas Recipe or have any tips to make it even better? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. It usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes per side on the grill. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

Can I use store-bought guacamole instead of making my own?

Absolutely! If you're short on time or just prefer the convenience, store-bought guacamole works just fine. Just make sure to get a good quality one.

What can I use if I don't have a grill?

No worries! You can use an indoor grill pan or even a regular skillet. Just make sure to cook the shrimp on medium heat and follow the same timing.

Can I make the tostadas ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead of time, like the guacamole and refried beans, but it's best to assemble the tostadas right before serving to keep them from getting soggy.

What other toppings can I add to the tostadas?

Feel free to get creative! You can add things like sliced jalapeños, diced onions, sour cream, or even some hot sauce if you like a bit of extra kick.