If you’re looking for a quick and delicious breakfast that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than the Breakfast Tostada. This dish is not only satisfying but also beautifully customizable, allowing you to utilize leftovers and seasonal ingredients. With a crispy corn tortilla as the base, topped with creamy avocado, a perfectly cooked egg, and vibrant pickled vegetables, this Breakfast Tostada is sure to become your new morning favorite. Let’s dive into why this dish is worth your time and how you can easily whip it up in your kitchen.

Why Breakfast Tostada is Worth Your Time

Breakfast Tostadas are a delightful way to start your day. They are not only visually appealing but also provide a balanced meal with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The combination of textures and flavors—from the crunch of the tortilla to the creaminess of the avocado and the tang of pickled onions—makes each bite an experience. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match toppings based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, making it both economical and sustainable.

What to Buy

To make a delicious Breakfast Tostada, here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable oil)
1 large egg
1 corn tortilla
1/4 cup leftover refried black beans or canned
1/4 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons Quick-Pickled Red Onions or Quick-Pickled Radishes and Carrots
1 tablespoon leftover Ancho-lada Sauce or store-bought
A pinch of alfalfa sprouts (optional)
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Crumbled cotija cheese for topping
Lime wedge for serving

Before You Start: Equipment

Before you begin, gather the following equipment:

Skillet or frying pan – for cooking the egg
Small bowl – for mixing pickled vegetables
Spatula – for flipping the egg
Plate – for assembling the tostada
Knife – for slicing the avocado and lime

Make Breakfast Tostada: A Simple Method

Follow these easy steps to create your perfect Breakfast Tostada:

Step 1: Prepare the Tortilla

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the corn tortilla and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until it turns golden and crispy. Remove from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.

Step 2: Cook the Egg

In the same skillet, crack one large egg and cook it to your desired doneness. For a sunny-side-up egg, cook until the whites are set but the yolk remains runny. For a more cooked egg, flip it gently and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Warm the Beans

If using leftover refried black beans, warm them in a small saucepan over low heat until heated through. If using canned beans, drain and rinse them before warming.

Step 4: Assemble the Tostada

On the crispy tortilla, spread the warm refried black beans evenly. Top with the cooked egg, followed by sliced avocado, quick-pickled onions, and a drizzle of Ancho-lada sauce.

Step 5: Garnish

Finish your Breakfast Tostada with a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese, fresh cilantro leaves, and a pinch of alfalfa sprouts if using. Serve with a lime wedge on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

Here are some seasonal variations to keep your Breakfast Tostada exciting throughout the year:

Spring: Add fresh radishes and pea shoots for a crunchy, vibrant topping.
Summer: Incorporate fresh corn and diced tomatoes for a refreshing summer flair.
Fall: Use roasted sweet potatoes and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds for a hearty seasonal twist.
Winter: Top with sautéed kale and roasted butternut squash for a warm, comforting breakfast.

Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Breakfast Tostada turns out perfectly:

If your tortilla is too soft, make sure to cook it longer to achieve a crispy texture.
For a perfectly cooked egg, keep the heat on medium to avoid overcooking.
If you don’t have pickled vegetables on hand, you can quickly pickle some by soaking sliced onions or radishes in vinegar and salt for about 15 minutes.
Adjust the toppings to your liking; this dish is very forgiving and can accommodate a variety of ingredients.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have leftover components from your Breakfast Tostada, follow these guidelines for storage and reheating:

Store leftover refried beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The crispy tortilla is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any unused tortillas in a sealed bag at room temperature for a few days. Reheat the beans in a saucepan over low heat when you’re ready to enjoy another tostada.

For the pickled vegetables, keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just make sure they’re submerged in the pickling liquid to maintain freshness. Avocado slices are best enjoyed fresh, so it’s recommended to slice them just before serving.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make this Breakfast Tostada vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian. Just omit any meat toppings and enjoy the combination of beans, vegetables, and egg.

What can I use instead of refried black beans?

If you don’t have refried black beans, you can use any type of bean, such as pinto or white beans, or even hummus for a different flavor profile.

Can I prepare the tostada in advance?

While the tortilla is best when crispy, you can prepare the toppings ahead of time. Just assemble the tostada right before serving to ensure freshness.

What if I don’t have pickled vegetables?

You can quickly pickle your own by soaking thinly sliced onions or radishes in vinegar and a pinch of salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, and they’ll be ready to go!

Wrap-Up

Breakfast Tostadas are a fantastic way to start your day with a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. With a bit of creativity and some staple ingredients, you can whip up a breakfast that is not only satisfying but also visually stunning. This dish is perfect for those busy mornings when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of your Breakfast Tostada. You won’t regret it!