Tostadas

 Ingredients:

- **Corn tortillas**: 8 (or store-bought tostada shells)

- **Refried beans**: 1 can (15 oz), or homemade

- **Shredded cooked chicken or beef**: 1 cup (optional)

- **Shredded lettuce**: 1 cup

- **Diced tomatoes**: 1 cup

- **Chopped onions**: 1/2 cup

- **Sliced avocado**: 1

- **Grated cheese**: 1 cup (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your choice)

- **Sour cream**: 1/2 cup

- **Salsa or hot sauce**: to taste

- **Fresh cilantro**: for garnish

- **Lime wedges**: for serving

Instructions:

1. **Prepare Tortillas**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the corn tortillas on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Alternatively, you can fry them in a skillet with a bit of oil until crisp. Let them cool on a wire rack.

2. **Heat Refried Beans**: If using canned refried beans, heat them in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally.

3. **Assemble Tostadas**: Spread a layer of refried beans on each tostada shell. If using meat, add a layer of shredded chicken or beef on top of the beans.

4. **Add Toppings**: Top each tostada with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, and sliced avocado.

5. **Add Cheese and Cream**: Sprinkle grated cheese over the top, and add a dollop of sour cream.

6. **Season**: Add salsa or hot sauce to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

7. **Serve**: Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for added flavor.

Enjoy your crispy and delicious tostadas!