Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks

Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks Recipe - Delicious Mexican Inspired Dish

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that is perfect for any occasion. These quesadillas are filled with a savory mixture of ham, Gouda cheese, olives, and onions, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell. They are sure to be a hit with your family and friends!

History

Quesadillas are a traditional Mexican dish that dates back to the colonial period. The dish is believed to have originated in the northern regions of Mexico, where it was made with corn tortillas filled with cheese and cooked on a griddle. Over the years, quesadillas have evolved to include a variety of fillings, including meats, vegetables, and different types of cheese. The addition of ham and Gouda cheese to quesadillas adds a delicious and savory twist to this classic dish.

Ingredients

1.5 cups of shredded smoked gouda cheese
1 cup of chopped ham
0.5 cup of pitted chopped olives, chopped
0.25 cup of minced red onions
0.5 cup of Grey Poupon country dijon mustard
8 flour tortillas (6-7 inches)
sour cream, if desired (to garnish)
chopped bell peppers, if desired (to garnish)

How to prepare

In a small bowl, mix together cheese, ham, and onions.
Spread 1 tbsp of mustard on each tortilla shell and spread about 0.33 cup of the gouda mixture over half of the tortilla.
Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling.
Heat the filled tortillas in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat for 4 minutes or until the cheese melts, turning once halfway through cooking.
Cut the quesadillas into 3 wedges and place them on a serving platter.
Garnish with sour cream and peppers.

Variations

Substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
Add diced tomatoes, jalapenos, or cilantro to the filling for a fresh and spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a non-stick skillet when cooking the quesadillas to prevent them from sticking to the pan.

- Be sure to cook the quesadillas over medium heat to ensure that the cheese melts evenly and the tortilla becomes crispy.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as cooked chicken, peppers, or mushrooms.

- Serve the quesadillas hot off the skillet for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure that the cheese melts evenly, cook the quesadillas over medium heat and flip them halfway through cooking.

- Use a spatula to press down on the quesadillas while cooking to help them stick together and create a crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Gouda cheese, you can use Swiss, provolone, or Monterey Jack cheese as a substitute.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as cooked bacon, sausage, or vegetables.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the quesadillas ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- Assemble the quesadillas and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the quesadilla wedges on a platter and garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped bell peppers for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, place the quesadillas on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese), wheat (tortillas), and soy (mustard).

Summary

Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks are a delicious and satisfying snack that is relatively high in calories and fat, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend who lived in a small village in the countryside. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping on homemade lemonade and chatting about life when she suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry.

When she came back, she was holding a worn recipe book in her hands. She flipped through the pages until she found what she was looking for. "Ah, here it is," she said with a smile. "Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks. It's one of my favorite recipes."

I watched as she gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the dish. The aroma of the ham and cheese sizzling in the pan filled the air, and my mouth started to water in anticipation. As she placed the quesadillas on a plate and handed me one, I took a bite and was immediately hooked.

The combination of the salty ham, creamy Gouda cheese, and crispy tortilla was simply divine. I couldn't believe how delicious something so simple could be. From that moment on, I knew I had to learn how to make this recipe myself.

I begged my friend to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged. She taught me the ins and outs of making the perfect Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks, from choosing the right ingredients to mastering the technique of flipping the quesadilla just right.

As I practiced making the dish over and over again, I started to put my own spin on it. I experimented with different types of ham and cheese, added in some fresh herbs and spices, and even tried serving it with a variety of dipping sauces.

Over time, my version of the recipe evolved into something truly special. It became a staple in my kitchen, something I would whip up for family gatherings, potlucks, and lazy Sunday afternoons. Everyone who tried it raved about how delicious it was, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride knowing that I had learned how to make such a wonderful dish.

But it wasn't just the taste of the Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks that made them special to me. It was the memories associated with them. Every time I made the dish, I was transported back to that sunny afternoon in my friend's kitchen, surrounded by laughter and good food.

As the years went by, I continued to hone my skills as a cook, learning new recipes and techniques from a variety of sources. But the Ham and Gouda Quesadilla Snacks remained a constant in my repertoire, a reminder of where it all began.

And now, as I sit here in my own kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aroma of ham and cheese sizzling in the pan, I can't help but smile. The recipe that once filled me with awe has become a beloved part of my culinary journey, a testament to the power of good food and good friends.