Air Fryer Fish Tostadas
Can we just take a moment to appreciate how delicious these fish tostadas are? All those colors and textures combine to make the most amazing, kid-friendly meal! Think “transported straight to the beach, sipping margs and eating fish tacos”, amazing. Try them out, and they’ll be an instant favorite with the whole family.
Love fish? Try our blackened cod with mango salsa, too!
These fish tostadas in the air fryer are our secret weapon when the kids are being picky, but we still want to get something on the table. Served on a crisp tortilla, the fish is crisp on the outside and flaky in the center. Then, we top it all with nutritious toppings.
Don’t worry, though. No one ever notices! Ready to eat in less than 30 minutes, this is a game-changer on busy weeknights!
The Best Fish for Fish Tostadas
Technically, any type of fish will work for this recipe. However, we recommend sticking with white fish such as cod, tilapia, or mahi mahi, because they have a mild flavor that pairs well with the toppings. That said, salmon also makes a great option for a slighlty “fishier” taste.
Fresh or frozen fish works, as long as you thaw frozen fish completely. Otherwise, it tends to become a little rubbery once cooked. We typically use frozen options, because they tend to be more affordable!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Below is an overview of the ingredients and instructions for this fish tostadas recipe. Please be sure to scroll down to the recipe card below for the complete details!
- Fish – We use fish sticks, but you can use any kind of cooked fish you like best. Mild fish is best for a flaky texture and crispy edges!
- Tostada Shells – Store-bought corn tostadas keep this recipe fast and weeknight-friendly. Find these in the Mexican aisle of your local grocery store. If you can’t find tostada shells specifically, corn tortillas work.
- Guacamole – We use homemade guacamole, but store-bought will also work.
- Pico de Gallo – We love the fresh flavors and subtle crunch of pico, but salsa also tastes great.
- Purple Cabbage – This adds a bit of nutrients and a subtle crunch.
- Queso Fresco – If you can’t find queso, Cotija cheese makes a good substitute.
- Greek Yogurt – This forms the base of the cilantro lime crema sauce, creating a lighter condiment with a boost of protein.
- Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed is best!
- Garlic Salt – Adjust to taste.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tostadas
- Prepare the sauce. Whisk the yogurt, lime juice, and garlic sauce in a small bowl until smooth, and set the mixture aside.
2. Cook the fish. Cook the fish filets according to the package instructions. We use the air fryer to make them crisp! Shake or flip halfway through cooking for even browning. You’ll know your fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
3. First layer. Spread a thin layer of guac on each tostada shell.
4. Second layer. Add two fish filets on top.
5. Toppings. Top with pico de gallo, thinly sliced cabbage, and a drizzle of the lime crema.
6. Serve. Finish with a generous sprinkle of cheese. Enjoy! Looking for more topping options? Try adding slaw, pico de gallo or salsa, and avocado crema or chipotle sauce.
Common Questions
Absolutely! You can use any protein you like best. Crockpot shredded chicken, taco meat, or even refried or black beans would all taste great.
We love to pair our tostadas with Mexican rice, Mexican cornbread casserole, or a roasted corn salsa salad.
This recipe is best served right away while the ingredients are fresh. However, you can transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. If possible, we recommend storing all the ingredients in separate containers to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Technically, you can, but we don’t recommend it! Air frying frozen fish tends to cause it to become dry and rubbery.
More Easy Recipes
Air Fryer Fish Tostadas (Crispy, Easy & Fresh)
Equipment
- 1 knife
Ingredients
- 16 battered fish fillets (4 fish fillets/person)
- 8 tostada shells
- 2 cups guacamole
- 2 cups pico de gallo
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup queso fresco or cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1-2 Tablespoons lime juice (see notes)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
Instructions
- In a small dish, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, lime juice (1 Tablespoon at a time), and garlic salt. Set aside.1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1-2 Tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- Bake the fish fillets according to the directions on the packaging. We prefer to use an air fryer for maximum crispiness at 400F for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown (see notes).16 battered fish fillets
- Then spread a thin layer of guacamole (about 1/4 cup) on the tostada shell. Add 2 fish fillets, then top with pico de gallo (about 1/4 cup), shredded cabbage, a drizzle of lime crema, and a generous sprinkle of queso fresco.8 tostada shells, 2 cups guacamole, 2 cups pico de gallo, 1 cup shredded purple cabbage, 1 cup queso fresco or cotija cheese, crumbled
- Store any leftovers separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Did you enjoy this Fish Tostadas recipe? We’d love it if you left a rating and review to let us know, and don’t forget to tag us in your recreations on Instagram!
Fish tacos for the win! These are really yummy.
Yummy! What a great way to mix up your Taco Tuesday routine. I’d love to share this tomorrow for my week in rewind recap. Cheers!