Cheese quesadillas with salsa verde are a delightful fusion of flavors that not only bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your dining table but also create a heartwarming experience that is bound to be a hit with your family. Recently, I decided to try this recipe for a family gathering, and it was met with resounding approval. The crispy, golden-brown tortillas filled with gooey, melted cheese paired with the zesty, slightly tangy salsa verde provided a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Everyone from the youngest to the oldest loved it, and it quickly became a requested favorite. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit individual tastes, making it a perfect choice for family meals or when entertaining guests.
Ingredients
To prepare these delicious cheese quesadillas with salsa verde, you will need the following ingredients:
- Flour tortillas – 8 large tortillas
- Cheddar cheese – 2 cups, grated
- Monterey Jack cheese – 1 cup, grated
- Jalapeño peppers – 2, finely chopped (optional for added spice)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – to taste
- Salsa Verde – 1 cup
- Sour cream – 1/2 cup (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro – a handful, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges – for serving
Instructions
Creating cheese quesadillas with salsa verde is a straightforward process that even beginners can master. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your quesadillas turn out perfectly every time:
- Begin by grating the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese and mixing them together in a bowl. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add finely chopped jalapeño peppers to the cheese mixture.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter in it. Place a flour tortilla in the skillet, and sprinkle a generous amount of the cheese mixture over half of the tortilla. Fold the tortilla over to enclose the cheese.
- Cook the quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted. Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas and cheese mixture.
- Once all the quesadillas are cooked, cut them into wedges and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Garnish the quesadillas with chopped fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately with salsa verde on the side and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
These cheese quesadillas with salsa verde are not only delicious but also offer a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed without guilt. Here are the nutrition facts for this recipe:
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400
Preparation Time
The preparation time for cheese quesadillas with salsa verde is relatively short, making it an ideal dish when you need a quick yet fulfilling meal. The total time required is approximately 30 minutes, broken down as follows:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
How to Serve
Cheese quesadillas with salsa verde can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a main course accompanied by a side salad or Mexican rice.
- As an appetizer or snack at parties or family gatherings.
- Paired with a refreshing beverage such as a margarita or iced tea.
- As a quick lunch option during busy weekdays.
- With additional toppings like avocado slices or pickled onions for extra flavor.
Additional Tips
To ensure your cheese quesadillas with salsa verde are a success, consider these additional tips:
- Select quality cheeses: Using high-quality cheese will enhance the flavor and melt better, resulting in a more delicious quesadilla.
- Experiment with fillings: While cheese is the star, you can add cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers for variety.
- Manage heat carefully: Keep an eye on the skillet’s temperature to avoid burning the tortillas while ensuring the cheese melts properly.
- Use fresh salsa verde: Homemade or freshly bought salsa verde will provide a fresher, more vibrant flavor compared to canned options.
- Store leftovers properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on a skillet to retain crispiness.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about cheese quesadillas with salsa verde:
- Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
- What type of cheese works best for quesadillas?
- Is it necessary to use butter in the skillet?
- How can I make homemade salsa verde?
- Can I prepare quesadillas in advance?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option, though the texture will be different. They tend to be more delicate, so handle them carefully during cooking.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack are popular choices due to their meltability and flavor, but you can also use mozzarella, queso fresco, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Using butter adds flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture, but you can substitute it with olive oil or a non-stick spray if preferred.
To make homemade salsa verde, blend tomatillos, green chilies, garlic, onion, lime juice, and cilantro until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
Yes, you can prepare and assemble them in advance, then cook them just before serving. Store uncooked quesadillas wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
