Pinto Bean and Couscous Tostadas

esmerelda smoot's Note:

Being a pregnant vegetarian I need quick and easy meals that are healthy and have protein. Here is a great meatless version of a tostada.

• Total Time: 15 mins
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans , rinsed and drained
• ¾ cup vegetable broth
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup carrot , chopped
• 1⁄8;-¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ cup salsa
• ½ cup couscous , uncooked
• 4 tostadas
• ½ cup cheddar cheese , shredded
• sour cream (optional)
• shredded lettuce (optional)

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine beans, broth, water, carrot, and crushed red pepper. Bring mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in salsa and couscous. Remove from heat.
4. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
5. Serve bean-couscous mixture on tostada shells and top with cheese.
6. If desired, serve with sour cream, lettuce, and/ or additional salsa.