Avocado and Refried Bean Tostadas

These Avocado and Refried Bean Tostadas are a fresh, crunchy, and satisfying vegan dish packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they come together in just 15 minutes—no cooking required!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tostadas are not only quick and easy to make, but they’re also full of texture, color, and nutrients. Creamy refried beans and avocado pair perfectly with crisp tostada shells and fresh veggies. They’re 100% vegan, naturally gluten-free (with gluten-free tostadas), and highly customizable. Perfect for weeknights, entertaining, or when you need a simple and delicious plant-based meal fast.

Ingredients

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

• ¼ cup diced tomatoes

• ¼ cup minced cilantro

• 3 tablespoons finely diced red onion

• 1 (15-ounce) can vegan refried beans

• 6 tostada shells

• ¾ cup shredded lettuce

• 1 avocado, sliced

• Vegan parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced cilantro, and diced red onion. Set aside.

2. If using pre-made tostada shells, toast them in a 350°F oven for 3–5 minutes until lightly crisped.

3. Spread a layer of vegan refried beans onto each tostada shell. Be gentle to avoid cracking the shell.

4. Top each with shredded lettuce, the tomato-cilantro-onion mixture, and avocado slices.

5. Finish with a sprinkle of vegan parmesan, if using.

6. Serve immediately for the best crunch and freshness.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 tostadas and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare. No cooking is required unless toasting the tostada shells.

Variations

• Add Protein: Top with black beans, grilled tofu, or vegan taco crumbles for a heartier meal.

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices, a drizzle of hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes.

• Creamy Additions: Include vegan sour cream or a dollop of guacamole.

• Grilled Veggies: Top with grilled zucchini, corn, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

• Cheesy Tostadas: Sprinkle vegan shredded cheese and place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until melted.

Storage/Reheating

These tostadas are best enjoyed fresh, as the toppings can make the shells soggy over time. However, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time:

• Refried beans: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Chopped veggies: Store in airtight containers for up to 2 days.

• Tostada shells: Store in a cool, dry place.

To serve, assemble the tostadas just before eating to maintain the crispness of the shells.

FAQs

Can I use homemade refried beans?

Absolutely. Homemade refried beans will work perfectly and allow you to control the flavor and ingredients.

Are tostada shells gluten-free?

Some are, but not all. Look for brands labeled gluten-free if needed.

How can I keep the tostadas from getting soggy?

Assemble just before serving and avoid overly wet toppings. Toasting the shells also helps them stay crisp.

Can I use different beans?

Yes, black bean puree or mashed pinto beans can be used in place of refried beans.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not unless you add spicy toppings. Feel free to customize with hot sauce or jalapeños.

What can I use instead of vegan parmesan?

Try nutritional yeast, vegan shredded cheese, or simply omit it if you prefer.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes, just be sure to use oil-free refried beans and skip the toasting or use an oil-free method like air-frying.

What kind of avocado should I use?

A ripe Hass avocado is ideal—look for one that yields slightly to gentle pressure.

Can I make this for a crowd?

Yes, double or triple the recipe as needed and lay out a tostada bar so guests can build their own.

How do I serve tostadas without them breaking?

Serve them on a plate and eat with your hands or a knife and fork. They’re delicate but deliciously crunchy.

Conclusion

Avocado and Refried Bean Tostadas are a fast, flavorful, and flexible vegan meal that’s perfect for busy days or casual gatherings. With creamy beans, crisp veggies, and rich avocado on a crunchy tostada shell, each bite is fresh and satisfying. Ready in under 20 minutes, this plant-based favorite is one you’ll want to make again and again.