1 Taco Or Tostada Taco or Tostada with Beef, Cheese and Lettuce contains 221 calories. If you're looking for a tasty and easy-to-prepare meal, this recipe is perfect for you. The combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and crisp lettuce on top of a crispy tostada or soft taco will satisfy your cravings in no time.
In addition to its great taste, this dish is also packed with nutrients. One serving provides you with a good amount of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly. So, not only is it delicious, but it's also good for you!
In this article, we'll show you how to make this recipe step-by-step, provide you with nutritional information, and explore the health benefits of its ingredients. We'll also give you some serving suggestions and show you how you can make a gluten-free, low-fat, or low-carb version of this dish. Let's get started!
How it is made?
Ingredients: - 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 8 tostada shells or taco shells
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 head lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup guacamole Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the taco seasoning mix and 3/4 cup of water to the skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the beef is fully coated with the seasoning mixture.
4. Place the tostada or taco shells on a baking sheet. Top each shell with a generous amount of the beef mixture.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
6. Bake the tostadas or tacos in the oven for 7-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the tostadas or tacos from the oven and let cool for 1-2 minutes.
8. Top each tostada or taco with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole, if desired.
9. Serve and enjoy!
Here is the nutritional information for one serving (1 taco or tostada). - calories: 221
- Total fat: 13.6g
- Saturated fat: 6.1g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 443mg
- Total carbohydrates: 13.6g
- Dietary fiber: 2.1g
- Sugars: 2.6g
- Protein: 11.2g As you can see, this dish is high in fat and sodium, but it's also a good source of protein and dietary fiber. If you're watching your calorie intake, you can make a few modifications to the recipe to lower its fat and calorie content.
Health benefits of the ingredients
Beef: Beef is a great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. These nutrients help build and repair muscles, maintain healthy blood cells, and support brain function. Cheese: Cheese is rich in calcium and vitamin D, which are important for building and maintaining strong bones. It also contains protein and phosphorus, which are essential for healthy growth and development. Lettuce: Lettuce is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great food for weight loss and digestion. It's also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which have antioxidant properties and support immune health.
Great party food
If you're hosting a party or gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It's easy to make, customizable, and can be served on a big platter for guests to assemble their own tacos or tostadas. You can also prepare the beef mixture and toppings in advance and assemble them right before serving. It's a hassle-free and delicious party food that everyone will love!
Perfect for game day
If you're a sports fan, this dish is perfect for game day. It's filling, tasty, and easy to eat while watching the game. You can also set up a taco or tostada bar with different toppings and sauces for your friends and family to enjoy. It's a fun and effortless way to impress your guests on game day!
Serving suggestions
You can serve this dish with a side of rice, beans, or corn on the cob for a complete meal. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Queso Fresco, to add more flavor and variety to the dish. If you're looking for a spicier version, you can add hot sauce or jalapenos on top. The possibilities are endless!
Gluten-free options
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tostada or taco shells, and check that the taco seasoning mix, sour cream, and salsa you use do not contain any gluten. You can also use corn tortillas instead of the shells for a softer and more authentic taste. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish without any worries!
Low-fat and low-carb versions available
If you're watching your calorie and fat intake, you can use lean ground beef or ground turkey instead of regular beef. You can also skip the cheese and sour cream or use low-fat versions of these ingredients. For a low-carb version, you can substitute the taco or tostada shells with lettuce leaves or use a low-carb tortilla. These modifications will still give you the same great taste with fewer calories!
Similar dishes from around the world
Tacos and tostadas are popular Mexican dishes that have variations in several other cultures too. Here are some similar dishes you might want to try: - Indian chaat: Chaat is a popular street food in India that consists of crispy fried dough topped with potatoes, chickpeas, chutneys, and yogurt. - Lebanese fatayer: Fatayer is a baked or fried pastry that's filled with meat, spinach, cheese, or herbs. It's a popular snack in Lebanon and other Middle Eastern countries.
Easy and quick recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you don't want to spend too much time in the kitchen. It takes less than 30 minutes to make and requires only a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Taco or Tostada with Beef, Cheese and Lettuce: 5 FAQs and Nutrition Information
1. What are the ingredients in a taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce?
A taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce typically contains a crispy tortilla shell, seasoned beef, shredded cheese, lettuce and sometimes tomato or sour cream. Other toppings might include salsa, guacamole, jalapeños or beans.
2. How many calories are in a taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce?
A taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce has around 221 calories per serving.
3. Is a taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce a healthy choice?
While a taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce can be a part of a balanced diet, it is not the healthiest choice due to the high fat and sodium content. Opting for leaner proteins like chicken or fish, and adding more vegetables like bell peppers and onions can make it a healthier option.
4. Can a taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce be modified for dietary restrictions?
A taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce can be modified to accommodate dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, dairy-free or vegan. For gluten-free options, a soft corn tortilla or lettuce wrap may be used instead of a crispy tortilla shell. For dairy-free and vegan options, omitting the cheese and sour cream or using plant-based alternatives can be effective.
5. Are there any nutritional benefits to a taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce?
The beef in a taco or tostada with beef, cheese and lettuce provides a good source of protein, while the lettuce and other vegetables provide valuable vitamins and minerals. However, due to the high fat and sodium content, it is important to consume in moderation and choose healthier options when possible.