Quesadillas with guacamole are a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine. This simple yet delicious dish consists of tortillas filled with melted cheese and various other ingredients like beans, meat, or vegetables, served with a side of creamy guacamole. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. The combination of crispy tortillas, gooey cheese, and fresh guacamole makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Why Quesadillas?
Quesadillas are versatile and incredibly easy to prepare. The name comes from "queso," the Spanish word for cheese, which is the essential ingredient in any quesadilla. Traditionally made with corn or flour tortillas, quesadillas can be filled with a variety of ingredients beyond just cheese. They can be customized with beans, sautéed veggies, chicken, beef, or even mushrooms to suit your taste.
Paired with guacamole, which is made from ripe avocados, lime, cilantro, and spices, quesadillas become a complete meal with the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Recipe for Mexican Quesadillas with Guacamole
Ingredients:
For the Quesadillas:
8 medium-sized flour or corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
1 cup cooked chicken, beef, or vegetables (optional)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for heat)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
For the Guacamole:
2 ripe avocados
1 small tomato, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1-2 tbsp fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for spice)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Guacamole
Prepare the Avocados:
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Use a fork to mash the avocado until it reaches your desired consistency. Some prefer smooth guacamole, while others enjoy a chunkier texture.
Add the Flavors:
Stir in the diced tomato, red onion, minced garlic, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the lime juice or seasoning as needed.
Set the guacamole aside while you prepare the quesadillas, or cover and refrigerate if not using immediately.
Step 2: Prepare the Quesadillas
Prepare the Filling:
If you’re adding extra fillings like chicken, beef, or vegetables, sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil or butter, along with the chopped onion and jalapeño. Season with a pinch of salt. Cook until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are softened.
Assemble the Quesadillas:
Lay out the tortillas and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on half of each tortilla. Add the cooked meat or vegetable filling, if using, then fold the tortilla in half over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
Cook the Quesadillas:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan, then place the folded quesadillas in the skillet.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted. Use a spatula to flip them carefully.
Slice and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the quesadillas from the pan and let them cool slightly before slicing them into wedges. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Step 3: Serve
Serve the quesadillas hot, with a generous side of guacamole. You can also add sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Tips for the Best Quesadillas
Cheese Choice:
Choose a cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend. For a more authentic flavor, you can also use Oaxaca or asadero cheese.
Add Fillings:
While cheese is the star of a classic quesadilla, you can add a variety of fillings like grilled chicken, beef, sautéed mushrooms, or beans for a heartier dish. Just be careful not to overfill the tortilla, as it can make flipping and cooking more challenging.
Guacamole Freshness:
For the best flavor, prepare the guacamole just before serving. If making ahead of time, store it in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent browning.
Crispy Tortillas:
To get that perfect crispy texture, don’t overcrowd the pan and make sure the heat is at medium. This allows the tortillas to become golden and crisp without burning.
A Dish for Any Occasion
Quesadillas with guacamole are ideal for casual meals, parties, or even game nights. Their simplicity allows for endless customization, and the combination of warm, cheesy quesadillas with cool, creamy guacamole is sure to please everyone at the table.
Conclusion
Mexican quesadillas with guacamole are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of Mexican flavors. Whether you’re making a classic cheese quesadilla or filling it with a variety of ingredients, this meal is sure to be a hit. Serve it with fresh guacamole for a perfect pairing, and enjoy the delicious contrast of textures and flavors.
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