Tostadas

Lunch

Item Rating: 66/100

1 serving (50 grams) contains 200 calories, 3.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 25.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.6g)

Calories		946.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		47.3 g	60%
	Saturated Fat	9.5 g	47%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		709.8 mg	30%
Total Carbohydrates		118.3 g	43%
	Dietary Fiber	9.5 g	33%
	Sugars	4.7 g
protein		14.2 g	28%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		94.6 mg	7%
Iron		4.7 mg	26%
Potassium		236.6 mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 425 cal (44.5%)

Protein: 56 cal (5.9%)

Carbs: 473 cal (49.5%)

About Tostadas

Tostadas, meaning 'toasted' in Spanish, are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of flat, crispy tortillas often topped with beans, proteins, vegetables, cheese, salsa, and other toppings. Originating from pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican communities, tostadas served as a practical way to repurpose stale tortillas by frying them until crisp. Nutritionally, a single serving of a tostada shell typically contains around 400 calories, 6g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. The fiber content (4g per serving) and moderate iron levels (2mg) can also contribute to daily nutrient intake, though toppings often determine its overall profile. Incorporating fresh vegetables and lean proteins can enhance its nutritional balance further.

Health Benefits

• Contributes to digestive health due to dietary fiber content (4g per serving), supporting a healthy gut and regular bowel movements.
• Provides a source of iron (2mg per serving), essential for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing anemia.
• Can be a vehicle for additional nutrients through toppings, like vitamin C from tomatoes and vitamin A from avocados when included as garnishes.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (if wheat tortillas are used), corn (if corn tortillas are used), dairy (if cheese or sour cream are added)

Suitable for: Vegetarian (if plant-based toppings are used), gluten-free (with certified gluten-free tortillas)

Not suitable for: Vegan (if dairy or animal products are included), low-carb diets (due to high carbohydrate content)

Selection and Storage

Store tostada shells in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness. Add toppings just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Common Questions About Tostadas Nutrition

Are tostadas high in protein?

A standard serving of tostadas contains about 6 grams of protein per serving. While this is not considered high in protein, it can contribute to your daily protein intake when paired with toppings like beans, meat, or cheese.

Can I eat tostadas on a keto or low-carb diet?

Tostadas are not suitable for a keto diet as they contain 50 grams of carbohydrates per serving, which is far above typical daily carb limits for ketosis. For low-carb diets, smaller portions or alternative options like low-carb tortillas may be better.

Are tostadas healthy?

Tostadas can be part of a balanced diet but should be consumed in moderation. They are calorie-dense at 400 calories per serving and contain 20 grams of fat and 300 mg of sodium. However, they also provide 4 grams of fiber, which supports digestion, and can become nutrient-rich when topped with vegetables and lean proteins.

What is the recommended serving size for tostadas?

A typical serving size for tostadas would be 1-2 tostadas, depending on your dietary needs and toppings. For a balanced meal, pair tostadas with nutrient-dense toppings like beans, avocado, grilled vegetables, and lean proteins.

Are tostadas healthier than tortillas?

Tostadas and tortillas contain similar base ingredients, but tostadas are typically fried, making them higher in calories and fat. If you're looking for a healthier option, baked tostadas or untoasted tortillas may be better choices depending on your dietary goals.

Data Sources & Scientific References