A tostada is a crispy tortilla made by toasting or frying a corn or wheat tortilla until it becomes firm and crunchy. One serving size of 12 g of tostadas is typically around 60 calories.
Apart from being a delicious snack, tostadas are also a healthier option for anyone looking to fulfill their cravings while keeping the calorie count in check. Additionally, tostadas can also be an excellent source of nutrients such as fiber, protein, and vitamins.
This article discusses everything you need to know about tostadas, including its ingredients, nutritional value, serving size, health benefits, and much more.
What are Tostadas?
Tostadas are a popular Mexican dish that has a unique crunchy texture. They are made from a corn tortilla that is toasted or fried until it is crisp and firm. Tostadas can be customized with a variety of toppings, making them a versatile dish that can be served for any occasion. This dish can be traced back to pre-Columbian times when the Aztecs used to eat toasted tortillas with bean paste or salsa. The name tostada means 'toasted' in Spanish, which is where the dish gets its unique name from. Today, Tostadas are a staple dish in Mexican cuisine and are enjoyed by people all around the world for their unique crunchy texture and flavor.
Calories in Tostadas
A typical serving size of 12 g of tostadas contains around 60 calories, making them a healthier snack option for anyone looking to watch their calorie intake. In comparison, regular potato chips contain around 160 calories per serving, making tostadas a better alternative. Additionally, tostadas are also nutrient-dense and can keep you full for longer periods, reducing the need to overindulge.
Tostadas Ingredients
Tostadas are a relatively easy dish to prepare, and the ingredients required to prepare them are readily available at most grocery stores. The main ingredients needed to make tostadas include corn or wheat tortillas, oil for frying or toasting, and toppings of your choice. Common toppings for tostadas include refried beans, shredded chicken or beef, seasoned ground meat, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, cheese, and sour cream. When choosing your ingredients, try to opt for fresh and healthy alternatives to make your tostadas even healthier and more nutritious.
Tostadas Nutrition Facts
Tostadas are a good source of several essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, and vitamins. One serving of tostadas contains around 2 g of fiber and 2 g of protein, making them an excellent snack choice for anyone looking to stay full and energized throughout the day. Additionally, tostadas also contain several essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, and vitamin C. However, the nutritional value of tostadas can vary depending on the toppings and preparation methods used. Try to avoid using high-calorie toppings such as cheese and sour cream to keep your tostadas healthier.
Health Benefits of Tostadas
Tostadas are a healthier snack option as they contain fewer calories than most other snacks. By choosing toppings that are high in fiber and protein, tostadas can help you stay full for longer, reducing your calorie intake throughout the day and promoting weight loss in the long run. Furthermore, tostadas can also be beneficial for heart health as they are low in saturated fats and contain several essential nutrients such as fiber and potassium that help reduce the risk of heart-related diseases. By opting for healthy toppings such as avocado and salsa, you can reap even more nutritional benefits from tostadas and keep your body healthy and energized.
Tostadas Serving Size
A typical serving size of tostadas is around 12 g, which roughly translates to one tostada shell. However, if you are making your own tostadas, it's essential to keep track of your portions to ensure that you don't overindulge. To control your portion sizes, try to limit the number of tostadas you consume and choose healthy toppings that are lower in calories and saturated fat. By practicing moderation and portion control, you can enjoy tostadas without worrying about breaking your calorie bank.
How to Make Tostadas?
Making tostadas at home is relatively simple and requires only a few basic ingredients. To make tostadas, you will need corn or wheat tortillas, oil for frying or toasting, and toppings of your choice. To prepare tostadas, you can either fry or toast your tortillas until they are crispy and golden brown. Once your tostadas are ready, you can add your favorite toppings and enjoy them right away. For a step-by-step guide on how to make tostadas, check out our blog post on Easy Tostada Recipe.
Tostadas Toppings
Tostadas can be customized with a variety of toppings to suit your taste preferences. Common toppings for tostadas include refried beans, shredded chicken or beef, seasoned ground meat, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, cheese, and sour cream. While some toppings are higher in calories and saturated fat than others, it is possible to make your tostadas healthier by opting for toppings that are high in nutrients such as fiber and protein. Healthy tostadas toppings include avocado, fresh tomatoes, black beans, and sweetcorn. By choosing toppings that are high in nutrients and low in calories and saturated fats, you can enjoy delicious and healthy tostadas anytime, anywhere.
Tostadas Meal Ideas
Tostadas can be a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any mealtime. Here are some meal ideas that include tostadas: - Breakfast tostadas: Top tostadas with scrambled eggs, black beans, and fresh salsa for a healthy and delicious breakfast option. - Tostada Salad: Toss shredded lettuce, black beans, and grilled chicken with your favorite salad dressing and serve it on top of tostada shells for a healthy and satisfying salad option.
Conclusion
Tostadas are a healthy and delicious snack option that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. By choosing healthy toppings and practicing portion control, you can enjoy tostadas without worrying about breaking your calorie bank. In addition to being a tasty snack, tostadas are also a good source of several essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, and vitamins. So the next time you're craving a crunchy and satisfying snack, consider making yourself a batch of delicious and nutrient-rich tostadas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tostadas
1. How many tostadas are in a serving?
One serving of tostadas is equal to 12 grams. The number of tostadas in that serving may vary depending on the size and brand of the tostadas.
2. What is the calorie count of a tostada?
One serving of tostadas contains 60 calories. However, keep in mind that if you add toppings like cheese, meat, and beans, the calorie count will increase significantly.
3. Are tostadas a healthy snack option?
Tostadas can be a healthy snack option if you choose the right toppings. Consider using lean protein like chicken, black beans, or tofu instead of fatty meats. You can also add vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and avocado for added nutrients.
4. Can tostadas be eaten on a low-carb diet?
Tostadas are made from corn tortillas, which are high in carbohydrates. If you are following a low-carb diet, you may want to limit your intake of tostadas or choose a low-carb tortilla option instead.
5. How do you make homemade tostadas?
To make homemade tostadas, start by lightly frying corn tortillas in hot oil until they are crispy. You can then add your choice of toppings, like refried beans, cheese, salsa, and avocado. You can also bake the tortillas in the oven at a high temperature until they are crispy to avoid frying.