Dinner

Cauliflower Black Bean Tostadas with Queso and Pickled Onion Recipe

Name: Cauliflower Black Bean Tostadas with Queso and Pickled Onion Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; Salt, to taste; Olive oil, for drizzling; 1 package taco seasoning (preferably Siete brand); 1 (14-ounce) can refried black beans (Amy’s brand recommended); 8-10 small corn tortillas (Mission street tacos tortillas preferred); 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil, for frying; Cilantro, fresh, chopped; Pickled red onion; Queso (Queso Mama brand green chile variety recommended); Salt, to taste; Lime juice, for finishing

ByCleo Brixton January 6, 2026January 6, 2026

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Introduction

These Cauliflower Black Bean Tostadas are a vibrant, flavorful dish combining crispy tortillas with tender roasted cauliflower, creamy refried black beans, tangy pickled onions, and melty queso. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal that’s both crunchy and comforting.

The image shows several small round tostadas on a white marbled surface. Each tostada has a golden-brown crispy base topped with a layer of dark beans, followed by crispy fried cauliflower pieces. On top of the cauliflower, there is a drizzle of creamy white sauce. Bright pink pickled onions and small green cilantro leaves are scattered over each tostada. There are two lime wedges placed on the surface near the tostadas. A woman's hand is reaching to pick one tostada. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
Salt and olive oil
1 package taco seasoning (Siete brand recommended)
One 14-ounce can refried black beans (Amy’s brand recommended)
8-10 small corn tortillas (Mission street tacos tortillas recommended)
1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
Cilantro, for garnish
Pickled red onion
Queso (Queso Mama brand, green chile variety recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 25-30 minutes until browned and tender.
Step 2: Add taco seasoning directly to the roasted cauliflower on the pan. Toss with tongs to coat evenly, using as much seasoning as you like (a full packet may not be needed). Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Step 3: Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Test the oil by dropping a small amount of water; it should sizzle immediately.
Step 4: Fry tortillas a few at a time in the hot oil for a few minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Repeat with all tortillas.
Step 5: Warm the refried black beans and queso separately. Then, assemble tostadas by spreading black beans on each crispy tortilla, topping with roasted cauliflower, a sprinkle of cilantro, pickled onion, and a drizzle of queso.
Step 6: Season final tostadas with salt and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the combination of crunchy, creamy, and tangy flavors.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or use a spicier queso variety.
Try swapping black beans for pinto beans if preferred.
Pickled onion can be made at home quickly by soaking sliced red onions in vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
To make this vegan, substitute queso with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Storage

Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tortillas may lose their crispness when refrigerated; re-fry them quickly before serving to restore crunch. Reheat black beans and cauliflower gently in the microwave or on the stove.

How to Serve

The image shows six round, golden-brown crispy tostadas arranged on a white marbled surface. Each tostada has a base layer of dark, slightly charred beans, topped with a thick layer of crispy, golden fried cauliflower pieces with a crunchy texture. Over the cauliflower, there is a drizzle of creamy white sauce spread unevenly, adding contrast to the warm colors below. Thin slices of pink pickled onions are scattered on top, along with small green cilantro leaves for freshness. On the right side of the image, there are two lime halves with a bright green interior placed on the white marbled surface. The photo is bright and detailed, taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the tortillas instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake tortillas at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway to achieve a crispy texture. Frying gives a richer flavor, but baking is a lighter alternative.

How do I make pickled red onions at home?

Slice red onions thinly and soak them in a mixture of vinegar (white, apple cider, or red wine), a pinch of sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes to an hour. They develop tangy, vibrant flavor perfect for topping tostadas.