Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Quesadilla Explosion Salad is the perfect answer for a quick dinner idea, a satisfying healthy meal, and a fun twist on classic flavors. It combines the satisfying crunch of a quesadilla with the freshness of a salad, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to explode your taste buds!
Ingredients:
This recipe is easily scalable to feed a crowd or just yourself.
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For the Quesadilla:
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken or black beans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
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For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
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For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Quesadilla
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the cheese and any desired fillings (chicken or beans) over half of the tortilla.
- Fold the tortilla in half. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Remove from skillet and let cool slightly. Repeat with the remaining tortilla.
Step 2: Preparing the Salad
- While the quesadilla cools, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, and avocado in a large bowl.
- Crumble cotija cheese over the salad.
Step 3: Assembling the Salad
- Once the quesadilla has cooled slightly, cut it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Add the quesadilla pieces to the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Tips for the Best Quesadilla Explosion Salad:
- Cheese is key: Don't be shy with the cheese! A good melting cheese is essential for a delicious quesadilla. Experiment with different blends for varied flavors.
- Customize your fillings: Add your favorite veggies, meats, or beans to the quesadilla for extra flavor and nutrition. Ground beef, shredded pork, or even leftover steak would be fantastic additions.
- Fresh ingredients are best: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of your salad.
- Make it ahead: The salad and dressing can be prepared ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for extra heat.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the chicken or use black beans, lentils, or tofu as a protein source. Use vegan cheese for a completely plant-based meal.
- Add some crunch: Toasted pepitas or tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on ingredients used, but a typical serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 20-30g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This Quesadilla Explosion Salad is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking. It’s a fun, flavorful, and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy!