Tex-Mex Quesadillas

Tex-Mex Quesadillas Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Tex-Mex Quesadillas are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of Mexican and Texan cuisine. These cheesy and flavorful quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

History

Quesadillas have been a popular dish in Mexican cuisine for centuries. The word "quesadilla" comes from the Spanish word "queso," which means cheese. The Tex-Mex version of quesadillas adds a twist by incorporating ingredients like refried beans, tomatoes, and onions.

Ingredients

12 Mission Soft Taco Size flour tortillas
1 package Lawry's taco seasoning Mix
1 can refried beans
2 large tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 cup chopped onions
0.25 cup chopped cilantro
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

In a 1 qt (946 ml) microwave-safe bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, and taco seasoning; mix well.
Heat on HIGH for 2 minutes, stirring once.
Remove from microwave; stir in cilantro.
Spread 2 tbsp of refried beans on half of the tortilla.
Sprinkle 2 tbsp each of cheese and tomato mixture on the remaining half.
Fold the tortilla in half to encase the filling.
Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Place 2 tortillas on a microwave-safe plate and heat until the cheese is melted.
Cut into wedges.

Variations

Add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp to the filling for extra protein.
Use different types of cheese like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to heat the tomato mixture before adding it to the quesadillas to enhance the flavors.

- Use a microwave-safe plate to heat the quesadillas for a quick and easy cooking process.

- Customize the filling by adding ingredients like cooked chicken, bell peppers, or jalapenos for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tex-Mex Quesadillas with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Microwaving the quesadillas is a quick and easy cooking technique that melts the cheese and heats the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use black beans instead of refried beans for a healthier option.

- Substitute corn tortillas for a gluten-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the tomato mixture and filling ahead of time and assemble the quesadillas just before serving for a quick meal.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the quesadilla wedges on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Tex-Mex Quesadillas with a side of Mexican rice and a salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tex-Mex Quesadillas contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tex-Mex Quesadillas contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tex-Mex Quesadillas contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Tex-Mex Quesadillas contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tex-Mex Quesadillas are a good source of vitamin C from the tomatoes and onions.

Alergens

Tex-Mex Quesadillas contain dairy (cheese) and wheat (tortillas) allergens.

Summary

Tex-Mex Quesadillas are a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tex-Mex Quesadillas are a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick meal. Customize the filling to suit your taste preferences and enjoy the cheesy and flavorful combination of ingredients.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day in Texas, and I was visiting a friend who had invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the delicious aroma of sizzling peppers and onions.

My friend, Maria, was standing at the stove, flipping tortillas filled with cheese and vegetables. She had a big smile on her face as she explained that she was making Tex-Mex Quesadillas – a dish she had learned to make from her grandmother.

As I watched Maria cook, I couldn't help but be captivated by the way she moved gracefully around the kitchen, adding just the right amount of spices and ingredients to create a mouthwatering masterpiece. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make Tex-Mex Quesadillas myself.

After I finished my delicious lunch, Maria generously shared her family recipe with me. She explained that the key to making the perfect Tex-Mex Quesadillas was to use fresh ingredients and to cook them slowly over low heat to ensure that the cheese melted perfectly and all the flavors melded together.

Over the years, I have made Tex-Mex Quesadillas countless times, perfecting my technique and tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added my own twist by using different types of cheeses, adding extra jalapenos for a spicy kick, and even experimenting with different types of meats like shredded chicken or beef.

One of my favorite memories of making Tex-Mex Quesadillas was when my grandchildren came over for dinner. They had never tried this dish before, and I was excited to introduce them to a new culinary experience.

As I cooked the quesadillas, the kids gathered around the kitchen island, eagerly watching me assemble the ingredients and cook them to perfection. The smell of the sizzling cheese and vegetables filled the air, making their mouths water in anticipation.

When I finally served up the Tex-Mex Quesadillas, the kids couldn't wait to dig in. They took their first bite and their faces lit up with delight. They couldn't believe how delicious and flavorful the dish was, and they quickly devoured their portions, asking for seconds and thirds.

As I watched my grandchildren enjoy the Tex-Mex Quesadillas, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. I was passing down a family recipe that had been handed down to me, and seeing the joy on their faces as they ate made all the time and effort I had put into perfecting the dish worth it.

Now, whenever my grandchildren come over for dinner, they always request Tex-Mex Quesadillas. It has become a family favorite, a dish that brings us together and creates lasting memories.

I am grateful to Maria for introducing me to this wonderful recipe and for sharing her family tradition with me. Tex-Mex Quesadillas will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy of cooking and sharing delicious food with the ones I love.