Crispy Asparagus & Herbed Goat Cheese Quesadillas
Indulge in a delightful twist on traditional quesadillas with these Crispy Asparagus & Herbed Goat Cheese Quesadillas. This recipe combines the subtle crunch of fresh asparagus with the creamy, tangy goodness of herbed goat cheese, enriched by the refreshing notes of cilantro. Perfectly browned on the outside and bursting with flavor, these quesadillas make for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack. Serve them alongside your favorite fruit for a colorful and vibrant meal that’s both nutritious and delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Extra virgin olive oil
2 (tablespoons, divided)
Fresh asparagus
1/2 (lb, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces)
Salt
to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
to taste
Flour tortillas
2 ((10 inch))
Herbed goat cheese
4 (ounces)
Fresh cilantro
1/4 (cup, chopped)
Fresh cilantro sprigs
for garnish
Instructions
1
In a skillet over medium-low heat, add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
2
Once the oil is shimmering, add the asparagus pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
3
Spread half of the herbed goat cheese on one side of each tortilla, ensuring an even layer for a creamy filling.
4
Distribute half of the sautéed asparagus and half of the chopped cilantro evenly on one side of each tortilla.
5
Fold the tortillas in half to create quesadillas, pressing gently to ensure everything stays in place.
6
Brush the outside of each quesadilla with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to achieve a golden crisp.
7
In the same skillet, place the quesadillas over medium-low heat and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
8
Once cooked, remove from the skillet, cut each quesadilla in half, and serve warm, garnished with additional fresh cilantro for a pop of flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Asparagus & Herbed Goat Cheese Quesadillas?
They are a unique twist on traditional quesadillas featuring sautéed asparagus, tangy herbed goat cheese, and fresh cilantro inside a crispy flour tortilla.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need extra virgin olive oil, fresh asparagus, salt, black pepper, flour tortillas, herbed goat cheese, and fresh cilantro.
How should I prepare the asparagus?
The asparagus should be trimmed and cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces before sautéing.
How long does it take to cook the asparagus?
Cook the asparagus in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
What kind of cheese is used in these quesadillas?
The recipe specifically calls for herbed goat cheese for its creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, you can substitute corn tortillas, though flour tortillas are recommended for their 10-inch size and flexibility.
What size tortillas should I use?
The recipe suggests using 10-inch flour tortillas.
How do I make the quesadillas crispy?
Brush the outside of the folded tortillas with olive oil and cook them in a skillet for 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian as it uses vegetables, cheese, and flour tortillas.
What is the best way to serve these quesadillas?
Serve them warm, cut into halves, and garnished with fresh cilantro sprigs.
What is a good side dish for this meal?
The recipe description suggests serving them alongside your favorite fresh fruit for a vibrant meal.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Yes, ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers would complement the asparagus and goat cheese well.
How do I prevent the goat cheese from sticking to my hands?
Using a spoon or a small spreader to apply the cheese to the tortilla helps keep the process clean.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
While fresh cilantro provides a pop of flavor, you can use 1/3 the amount of dried cilantro if fresh is unavailable.
What heat setting should I use for the skillet?
Medium-low heat is best to ensure the asparagus cooks through and the tortillas brown without burning.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, divided between sautéing the vegetables and crisping the tortillas.
Can I make these quesadillas ahead of time?
They are best served fresh for maximum crispness, but you can sauté the asparagus in advance.
What if I cannot find herbed goat cheese?
You can use plain goat cheese and mix in dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley yourself.
How many quesadillas does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 2 large 10-inch quesadillas, which can be cut into smaller pieces.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What is the best way to reheat these?
Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes per side to regain the crispy texture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, quesadillas are generally popular with kids, and the mild flavor of asparagus and cheese makes it a great way to eat greens.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh is preferred for the best crunch, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly before sautéing.
Can I add a protein like chicken?
Absolutely, shredded chicken or grilled shrimp would be a delicious addition to the filling.
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep and cook time together take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
How do I garnish the dish?
Use fresh cilantro sprigs on top for a professional and fresh presentation.
Can I make this vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based herbed cream cheese or nut-based cheese.
Do I need a special pan for this?
A standard non-stick or cast-iron skillet works perfectly.
How do I fold the tortilla?
Place the filling on one half of the tortilla and fold the other half over to create a semi-circle.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick snack?
Yes, it is specifically described as a quick and satisfying lunch or snack option.