Imagine biting into a crispy, golden tortilla that's packed with succulent shrimp, melted cheese, and the vibrant punch of fresh cilantro - a Mexican-inspired culinary adventure that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. These Shrimp and Cilantro Quesadillas are not just a dish; they're a quick, mouthwatering journey that will transport you straight to a sunny coastal kitchen in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and roughly chop into smaller pieces.
- Wipe the skillet clean and return to medium heat. Place one flour tortilla in the skillet.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly across the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Distribute the chopped cooked shrimp over the cheese, then sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top.
- Add the remaining cheese over the shrimp and cilantro to help bind the quesadilla.
- Cover with a second tortilla and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted and tortilla is crisp.
- Remove from skillet, let cool for 1-2 minutes, then slice into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Serve hot with optional sides like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Tips
- Pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking to ensure a perfect sear and prevent soggy quesadillas.
- Use medium-high heat to get that crispy, golden-brown tortilla exterior without burning.
- Don't overstuff your quesadilla - a balanced filling ensures even cooking and easier flipping.
- Let the quesadilla rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking to help the cheese set and make cutting easier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder to your shrimp while seasoning.
- A cast-iron skillet works best for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 33g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
