Spicy Mango Slaw Tostadas

Spicy Mango Slaw Tostadas are my answer when I want something that feels like a fiesta but can be on the table in under thirty minutes These tostadas balance sweet juicy mango with just enough heat from jalapeño and always disappear fast whether I serve them as a light lunch or an appetizer at parties

I was first inspired to make these after tasting a similar slaw at a summer barbecue Now I mix up the heat and use whatever ripe mango I have for that bright tropical pop

Ingredients

• Corn tortillas: Essential for that classic tostada crunch Select thicker tortillas if possible to hold up under toppings
• Ripe mango: Brings sweetness and color to the slaw Look for fruit that yields slightly to gentle pressure for best flavor
• Green cabbage: Adds crunch and makes the topping hearty Go for tight heavy heads with crisp leaves
• Red bell pepper: Offers sweetness and a pop of color Choose ones with glossy skin and no soft spots
• Red onion: Provides sharpness and bite Check for firm bulbs with shiny skin
• Jalapeño: Gives heat Remove seeds for milder flavor Look for smooth bright green chilies
• Fresh cilantro: Lifts the slaw with herbal brightness Choose bunches with fragrant leaves and tender stems
• Lime juice: Adds tang and freshness Use freshly squeezed juice for maximum zing
• Olive oil: Brings everything together with smooth richness Choose extra virgin for deeper flavor
• Honey: Balances all the acidity and spice Go for local honey if available
• Salt and pepper: Bring out all the flavors Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for that finishing touch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Slaw Veggies:

Dice the mango and shred the cabbage Use a sharp knife to slice the mango away from the pit then cut into even cubes It is important for the cabbage to be thinly shredded so every bite has the perfect balance

Mix the Slaw Base:

Combine mango cabbage red bell pepper red onion jalapeño and cilantro in a large bowl Mix everything gently so the mango does not get mushy

Make the Dressing:

Whisk together lime juice olive oil honey salt and pepper in a small bowl Taste the dressing first and adjust the salt and lime for balance

Toss the Slaw:

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture Toss gently to coat every piece This step can be done ahead to give the flavors time to meld

Toast the Tortillas:

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat Place tortillas in a single layer and cook them for one to two minutes on each side until they are golden and crisp Keep an eye on them as they go from done to burnt quickly

Assemble the Tostadas:

Spoon a generous amount of the spicy mango slaw onto each crispy tortilla Serve right away to keep the tostadas crunchy

Save

My favorite part is getting that first bite where mango sweetness mixes with the hint of heat from jalapeño It always takes me back to spontaneous summer picnics with my family everyone grabbing their own tostada and going back for more

Storage tips

If you have leftovers keep the slaw and tortillas separate Store the slaw in an airtight container for up to two days and toast fresh tortillas just before serving This keeps everything crisp and vibrant

Ingredient substitutions

Swap honey for agave or maple syrup if you want to keep it vegan No ripe mango Use pineapple or peach for a different twist For extra crunch add sliced radishes or a few crushed tortillas on top before serving

Serving suggestions

Serve these tostadas alongside black beans or simple guacamole for a more filling meal They pair beautifully with a chilled sparkling beverage or a classic margarita If you are hosting a party try cutting the tortillas into small rounds for appetizer bites

Save

Cultural context

Tostadas are a staple in Mexican cuisine usually served as a way to use up leftover tortillas by toasting them until crisp The fresh and bright mango slaw puts a modern fruity spin on this tradition making it a perfect recipe for warm weather gatherings

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the tostadas extra crispy?

Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until both sides are golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes per side. For even more crunch, bake or lightly fry them.

→ Can I prepare the mango slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the slaw a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Toss just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

→ What can I use instead of mango?

Pineapple or papaya are great alternatives, offering a similar sweet-tart flavor and pairing well with the other ingredients.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The heat comes from the jalapeño. Remove inner seeds for milder warmth or leave more seeds for extra kick.

→ Are the tostadas gluten-free?

As long as you use 100% corn tortillas, the dish remains gluten-free. Always check tortilla packaging for allergen information.

→ What drinks pair well with these tostadas?

Chilled white wine, sparkling water with lime, or a refreshing margarita complement the vibrant flavors perfectly.