Green Goddess Tlayudas – Perfect Cinco de Mayo Recipe

Picture this: a crisp, golden tortilla piled high with vibrant greens, creamy avocado, tangy bursts of lime, and a drizzle of zesty Green Goddess dressing that ties everything together. Sounds pretty irresistible, right? That’s exactly what the Ultimate Green Goddess Tlayudas bring to the table.

These Mexican-inspired “Mexican pizzas” are not only eye-catching but also packed with fresh, wholesome flavors that scream springtime. Honestly, they’re perfect for celebrating Cinco de Mayo—or any time you’re craving something crunchy, creamy, and utterly delicious.

For me, tlayudas are more than food—they’re a little party on a plate. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe is a winner. Let’s dive into why these tlayudas deserve a prime spot on your Cinco de Mayo menu!

Recipe Story & Background

The tlayuda is a traditional Oaxacan dish, often referred to as a “Mexican pizza” due to its flat, crispy tortilla base. It’s typically topped with refried beans, cheese, meats, and veggies, then folded or served open-faced. This dish is as versatile as it is beloved, and every bite carries the essence of Mexican street food culture.

I first discovered tlayudas during a trip to Oaxaca, where street vendors would prepare them fresh, with toppings as vibrant as the city itself. The smoky flavor of the grilled tortillas paired with bright, fresh toppings left such an impression, I knew I had to create my own spin on it once I got home.

For this version, I’ve swapped out the traditional refried beans and meat for a vibrant Green Goddess dressing and an abundance of fresh, green toppings. It’s a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option that still pays homage to the bold, layered flavors of the original. And honestly, it’s perfect for spring or summer celebrations when fresh produce is at its peak!

Ingredient Discussion

Let’s break down the key ingredients for these Green Goddess Tlayudas and how they come together to create magic:

• Tlayuda Base (Large Tortillas): Choose extra-large flour tortillas or traditional tlayuda bases if you can find them. For a gluten-free option, use large corn tortillas. Look for tortillas that feel pliable but sturdy enough to hold toppings.
• Green Goddess Dressing: The star of the show! This creamy, herb-packed dressing is made with fresh parsley, cilantro, green onions, garlic, Greek yogurt, and a squeeze of lime. If you’re vegan, swap the yogurt for a plant-based alternative or use avocado as the base.
• Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado adds a velvety texture and balances the tanginess of the dressing. Choose perfectly ripe avocados that give slightly when pressed.
• Shredded Cheese: Oaxaca cheese is traditional, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack work beautifully too. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based shredded cheese.
• Greens: A mix of shredded romaine, baby spinach, and arugula brings freshness and crunch. Feel free to adjust based on what’s in season.
• Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes add a peppery bite and a pop of color. They’re optional but highly recommended.
• Lime: Lime wedges are a must for a final squeeze of brightness before serving. Fresh lime juice really pulls everything together.
• Optional Toppings: Crumbled queso fresco, pickled onions, or even a sprinkle of chili powder can elevate the flavors even more.

Pro tip: If you want to add some protein, grilled shrimp or black beans would blend seamlessly with the flavors here.

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet or Griddle: To crisp up the tortillas to perfection. A cast-iron skillet works great for even heat distribution.
• Blender or Food Processor: Essential for whipping up that dreamy Green Goddess dressing.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing veggies and avocados cleanly.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping all your toppings.
• Spatula: To handle the tortillas without tearing them.

No griddle? No problem. You can use a regular frying pan or even bake the tortillas in the oven for a crisp finish.

Preparation Method

1. Make the Green Goddess Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine 1 cup parsley, 1/2 cup cilantro, 2 green onions, 1 garlic clove, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 avocado, juice of 1 lime, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Prep the Tortillas: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
3. Assemble the Tlayudas: Spread a generous layer of Green Goddess dressing over each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, and a mix of greens.
4. Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with thinly sliced radishes and any optional toppings like queso fresco or pickled onions.
5. Serve: Cut into wedges and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Tip: If you’re making these for a crowd, you can crisp the tortillas ahead of time and assemble just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here’s how to make your tlayudas truly exceptional:

• Don’t overload the base: Less is more when it comes to toppings. Too much, and the tortilla can get soggy or hard to handle.
• Use fresh herbs: The dressing shines when the herbs are at their peak freshness. Don’t skimp here!
• Crisp the tortillas just right: You want them golden and crunchy, but not so hard that they crack when you cut into them.
• Customize the spice level: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like some heat.

Variations & Adaptations

There are so many ways to make this recipe your own:

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for extra protein.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based yogurt for the dressing and vegan cheese for the toppings.
• Seasonal Twist: Swap the greens for roasted vegetables like zucchini or squash in cooler months.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chipotle powder to the dressing.

One of my favorite variations is adding grilled corn kernels for a sweet, smoky crunch. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These tlayudas are best served fresh and warm, right after assembly. Cut them into wedges for easy sharing, and don’t forget the lime wedges for squeezing over the top!

If you have leftovers, store the toppings and tortillas separately to prevent sogginess. The tortillas will stay crisp in an airtight container for up to 2 days, and the Green Goddess dressing can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Reheat the tortillas in a skillet or oven to crisp them back up before serving. Flavors tend to meld and deepen over time, so the dressing might get even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients:

• Avocado: A great source of healthy fats and fiber.
• Greens: Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K.
• Greek Yogurt: High in protein and probiotics.
• Herbs: Full of antioxidants and fresh flavor.

Each serving (depending on toppings) is approximately 350 calories, making it a wholesome yet indulgent choice for any meal.

Conclusion

There you have it—the Ultimate Green Goddess Tlayudas, a recipe that’s vibrant, fresh, and perfect for a Cinco de Mayo celebration. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these tlayudas are guaranteed to bring joy to your table.

I love how customizable this recipe is, making it perfect for any taste or dietary preference. It’s a dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, share your photos on social media, and tag me so I can see your creations. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

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