Gourmet Salmon Quesadillas with Creamy Avocado Dip
Indulge in these Gourmet Salmon Quesadillas that are as delicious as they are easy to prepare. Initially, I was skeptical about combining salmon with quesadillas, but the moment I tasted these, I was pleasantly surprised! The creaminess of Monterey Jack cheese paired with the tender salmon, enhanced by fragrant garlic and basil, creates a delightful explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. These quesadillas are incredibly versatile: they're perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or even an elegant hors d'oeuvre for your guests. If you have grilled salmon on hand, feel free to use it for an even more amazing flavor. Trust me; once you try these, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner. Pair them with a zesty avocado dip or some refreshing sour cream for the ultimate experience. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, these quesadillas are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!
N/A
Servings
237.5
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Garlic cloves, minced
2 (minced)
Canned salmon, boneless skinless
6 ounces (drained and flaked (or 6 ounces of cooked salmon, if you have leftovers))
Dried basil
1 teaspoon (n/a)
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (n/a)
Flour tortillas or corn tortillas
4 (about 6 inches in size)
Monterey Jack pepper cheese or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1 1/2 cups (shredded)
Instructions
1
In a skillet over medium heat, spray with cooking spray and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes tender but avoid browning it.
2
Add in the canned or leftover cooked salmon, dried basil, and pepper. Heat everything gently until warmed through, stirring occasionally. (Alternatively, for an even quicker option, heat in the microwave in a small glass bowl for about 1 minute).
3
Assemble the quesadillas by placing one tortilla on a clean surface. Sprinkle a quarter of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese on one half, followed by a quarter of the salmon mixture. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4
Spray the skillet with cooking spray again and cook the quesadilla for 1 to 2 minutes on one side or until golden brown. Spray the top of the quesadilla lightly and carefully flip to cook the other side for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
5
For an alternative cooking method, you can arrange all assembled quesadillas on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are crisp and the cheese has melted.
6
Once done, remove the quesadillas from heat, cut into wedges, and serve immediately. Guacamole and sour cream make excellent accompaniments, but they can be enjoyed on their own.
Nutrition Information
13.5g
Fat
16.5g
Carbs
12g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in the Gourmet Salmon Quesadillas?
The main protein is 6 ounces of boneless skinless canned salmon, which should be drained and flaked, or leftover cooked salmon.
How long should I sauté the minced garlic?
Sauté the minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute until it becomes tender, taking care to avoid browning it.
What kind of cheese is recommended for these quesadillas?
The recipe recommends using 1 1/2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack pepper cheese or regular Monterey Jack cheese.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, the recipe states that you can use either flour tortillas or corn tortillas, about 6 inches in size.
What seasonings are added to the salmon mixture?
The salmon is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
How do I assemble the quesadillas?
Place a tortilla on a clean surface, sprinkle a quarter of the cheese on one half, add a quarter of the salmon mixture, and fold the tortilla in half.
How long do I cook the quesadillas in a skillet?
Cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes over medium heat until it is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Is there an oven-baked option for this recipe?
Yes, you can bake assembled quesadillas on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until crisp.
What size tortillas are recommended for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using tortillas that are approximately 6 inches in size.
What are some recommended accompaniments for serving?
You can serve the quesadillas with a zesty avocado dip, guacamole, or refreshing sour cream.
How many calories are in a serving of this salmon quesadilla?
There are 237.5 calories per serving in this recipe.
What is the protein content of this salmon quesadilla dish?
Each serving contains 12 grams of protein.
How much fat is in these quesadillas?
The recipe contains 13.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the total carbohydrate count for this recipe?
This recipe contains 16.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I heat the salmon mixture in a microwave for speed?
Yes, as a quicker option, you can heat the salmon, basil, and pepper in a small glass bowl in the microwave for about 1 minute.
How many garlic cloves are needed for the recipe?
You will need 2 minced garlic cloves to flavor the salmon mixture.
Should the canned salmon be prepared in a specific way?
Yes, the canned salmon should be boneless and skinless, and it must be drained and flaked before being heated.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients required for this Gourmet Salmon Quesadilla recipe.
Is this recipe suitable to serve as an appetizer?
Yes, these quesadillas are versatile and work well as an elegant hors d'oeuvre for guests when cut into wedges.
How should the quesadillas be sliced before serving?
Once cooked, the quesadillas should be removed from the heat, cut into wedges, and served immediately.
What texture should the tortillas achieve during cooking?
The tortillas should become golden brown and crisp, ensuring the cheese inside is fully melted.
Does the recipe suggest using fresh grilled salmon?
Yes, the description notes that using grilled salmon can provide an even more amazing flavor if you have it on hand.
How much dried basil is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for exactly 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
What temperature should the oven be for the baking method?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) if you choose the baking method.
Do I need to use cooking spray?
Yes, use cooking spray to sauté the garlic and to lightly spray the skillet or baking sheet for browning.
Can I use leftover salmon from a previous meal?
Yes, you can use 6 ounces of any cooked salmon leftovers as a substitute for canned salmon.
How much cheese is required for the filling?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack or Monterey Jack pepper cheese.
Is this considered a quick meal option?
Yes, it is described as a quick lunch or satisfying snack that is easy and fast to prepare.
How much pepper should be added to the salmon?
The recipe specifies using 1/2 teaspoon of pepper for seasoning.
What specific flavors enhance the salmon in this dish?
The salmon flavor is enhanced by a combination of creamy Monterey Jack cheese, fragrant minced garlic, and dried basil.