Picadas Pinched Masa Tartlets

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with Picadas Pinched Masa Tartlets, a delightful dish that combines traditional technique with irresistible taste. These handmade tartlets are crafted from freshly prepared masa harina dough, pinched to form tender, crispy shells that hold bold salsa verde and roja toppings. Each picada is elevated with creamy crumbled queso fresco, aromatic cilantro, and crisp onion for a medley of textures and flavors, all complemented by a spritz of zesty lime. Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light entrée. Ideal for lovers of authentic Mexican cuisine, these picadas bring a rustic, home-cooked charm to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1.5 cups warm water
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 0.5 cup salsa verde
• 0.5 cup salsa roja
• 0.5 cup queso fresco
• 0.25 cup chopped onion
• 0.25 cup cilantro leaves
• 4 pieces lime wedges

Directions

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina and salt. Gradually add warm water, kneading the mixture until a smooth dough forms. It should feel soft but not sticky.

Step 2

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Cover with a damp kitchen towel to keep them from drying out.

Step 3

Using a tortilla press or a flat-bottomed plate, flatten each ball into a thick disk, approximately 4 inches in diameter.

Step 4

Heat a griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook each disk for 45–60 seconds on one side, then flip and cook for another 45 seconds. Remove from the skillet.

Step 5

While the disks are still warm, pinch the edges upwards to create a rim around each disk, forming a tartlet shape. This is the key to making picadas!

Step 6

Lightly brush each tartlet with vegetable oil and return them to the skillet for 1–2 minutes on each side to crisp up.

Step 7

Once crisp, remove from heat and top each picada with a spoonful of salsa verde or salsa roja.

Step 8

Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco, chopped onions, and cilantro leaves on top.

Step 9

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for a tangy finishing touch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1066.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	766.4

Total Fat 43.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 14.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 18.0g
Cholesterol 11.9mg	0%
Sodium 3527.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 76.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.2g	0%
Total Sugars 12.8g
Protein 24.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 466.0mg	0%
Iron 5.4mg	0%
Potassium 1119.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.5%

Protein: 12.2%

Carbs: 38.3%