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Loaded Classic Taco Plate: Vibrant, juicy tortilla with savory beans, grilled corn & avocado—ideal for weeknight meals. Save this idea so you can come back to it later.

Charred Corn Tostadas with Vegan Refried Pinto Beans, Grilled Corn, and Creamy Habanero Sauce

The Flexi Vegan
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 8–10 corn tostada shells (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups cooked pinto beans (or one 15-oz can, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more as needed)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 ears fresh corn (or 1½ cups frozen corn, thawed)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 2 cups shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (Roma or cherry)
  • 4–5 radishes, thinly sliced
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise or plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt
  • 1 habanero pepper, seeded and finely minced (use half for milder heat)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon agave or maple syrup
  • 1 small clove garlic, grated
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • Make the creamy habanero sauce: In a small bowl, whisk vegan mayo (or yogurt), minced habanero, lime juice, agave, garlic, and salt. Adjust heat by adding more or less pepper. Chill while you cook.
  • Char the corn: Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high. Cut the kernels off the cobs. Toss with a little oil, salt, and pepper. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until charred in spots and fragrant. Set aside.
  • Cook the beans: In a saucepan, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook 4–5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika for 30 seconds.
  • Refry to creamy: Add pinto beans plus 1/3 cup water. Simmer 3–4 minutes, then mash to your desired texture. Season with salt and pepper. If too thick, add a splash more water; if too thin, simmer to reduce.
  • Prep toppings: Slice avocado, shred lettuce, dice tomatoes, and slice radishes. Squeeze a little lime over the avocado to prevent browning.
  • Warm tostada shells: For extra crunch, place shells on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.
  • Assemble: Spread a generous layer of refried beans on each tostada. Top with charred corn, avocado, lettuce, tomatoes, and radish.
  • Finish with sauce: Drizzle creamy habanero sauce over the top and serve with lime wedges.