Savory And Sweet Quesadillas With Calabaza Blossoms

I love quesadillas, and when I heard about Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza, I was intrigued. With the combination of squash blossoms, cheese and corn tortillas, I knew I had to try them. I was so glad I did! They have a delicate flavor, and the crunchy texture of the tortillas complements the creamy cheese and the floral notes of the squash blossoms. It’s a unique and delicious dish that has become a favorite in my home.

Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 (6-inch) flour tortillas
• 1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled queso fresco
• 2 tablespoons (2/3 ounce) butter
• 2 cups chopped fresh squash blossoms
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Spread 1 tablespoon of butter over one side of each of the 6 flour tortillas.
• Place the tortillas, butter-side-down, onto the preheated skillet and cook for 2 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
• Meanwhile, in a medium bowl combine the squash blossoms, onion, cilantro, olive oil, queso fresco, salt and pepper.
• When the tortillas are lightly golden brown, remove from heat and transfer onto a plate.
• Divide the squash blossom mixture among the 6 tortillas and spread it evenly over each one.
• Place the other 6 tortillas, butter-side-up, on top of the squash blossom mixture.
• Return the quesadillas to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes per side or until the quesadillas are lightly golden brown.
• Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 590
• Fat: 24.5g
• Carbohydrates: 68.6g
• Protein: 15.3g
• Sodium: 881.2mg
• Sugar: 4.1g
• Cholesterol: 45.8mg

What is a quesadilla de flor de calabaza?

A quesadilla de flor de calabaza is a Mexican dish made with squash blossoms and cheese, folded up in a flour tortilla. These quesadillas are a popular appetizer or side dish, typically served with salsa and other accompaniments.

The squash blossoms used in quesadillas de flor de calabaza are the edible flowers of the squash plant, most often zucchini or chayote. These blossoms are picked when their petals are still open and their centers remain soft. The blossoms are then stuffed with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, chiles, and herbs, and fried in a light batter.

The cheese used in quesadillas de flor de calabaza is usually a white cheese such as queso fresco or panela. This cheese is melted together with the squash blossoms, giving the quesadillas a creamy texture and a mild flavor. Additionally, the quesadillas may be garnished with additional ingredients such as onions, cilantro, and tomatoes.

Quesadillas de flor de calabaza are a popular dish throughout Mexico, but they can also be found in Mexican restaurants around the world. These quesadillas are a great way to add a unique flavor to any meal.

What are the necessary ingredients to make a quesadilla de flor de calabaza?

To make a quesadilla de flor de calabaza, you will need the following ingredients: corn tortillas, queso fresco, and flor de calabaza (squash flower).

Before you begin, it’s important to ensure that the flor de calabaza is fresh and in season. Flor de calabaza is a seasonal flower, meaning it is only available during certain months of the year. Look for flowers that are fresh, crisp, and bright in color.

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start making the quesadilla. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then lightly brush one side of the corn tortilla with oil. Place the oiled side of the tortilla down into the skillet and top with queso fresco and flor de calabaza.

When the bottom of the tortilla is lightly golden, flip it over and cook the other side. Once both sides are golden and crispy, remove from the heat and cut into quarters.

What are the benefits of eating a quesadilla de flor de calabaza?

The benefits of eating a quesadilla de flor de calabaza are numerous. This classic Mexican dish is not only delicious and easy to make but also offers a range of nutritional benefits.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C, and E as well as zinc, iron, and magnesium.
• High in dietary fiber which can help aid digestion.
• Good source of plant-based protein.
• Low in calories and fat.

Taste Benefits:

• Delicious combination of flavors from the squash blossoms and cheese.
• Versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
• Variety of fillings, such as mushrooms, peppers, and onions, can be added for extra flavor.

Convenience Benefits:

• Quick and easy to prepare.
• Can be cooked in a variety of ways including grilling, frying, and baking.
• Can be served hot or cold.
• Perfect for making ahead of time and reheating.

What are some tips and tricks to ensure a successful quesadilla de flor de calabaza?

Start by choosing the freshest ingredients available. Use ripe squash blossoms and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.

• Make sure to cut the stems off the squash blossoms before cooking.
• For a crisp quesadilla, use a cast-iron skillet or griddle. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat before adding the ingredients.
• Make sure to coat the skillet or griddle with a thin layer of oil. This will help prevent sticking and ensure a golden-brown, crunchy quesadilla.
• Fill the quesadilla with an even layer of cheese and squash blossoms. If desired, add other fillings such as onions, peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables.
• Once the quesadilla is filled, fold it in half and press down gently with a spatula to help seal in the filling.
• Cook the quesadilla for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden-brown and crispy.
• Serve warm with toppings of your choice such as pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.

What are the steps to make a quesadilla de flor de calabaza?

Making a quesadilla de flor de calabaza is a simple and delicious way to enjoy Mexican cuisine. Here are the steps to make this delicious dish:

• Heat a skillet over medium heat.
• Place a corn tortilla on the skillet and heat it until it is lightly golden and warm.
• Remove the tortilla from the skillet and add a layer of crumbled queso fresco, making sure to leave a border around the edges.
• Top the cheese with a few slices of flor de calabaza, which is a Mexican squash flower.
• Place another corn tortilla on top of the filling and press down lightly.
• Cook the quesadilla until the cheese has melted and the tortillas are golden and crisp.
• Flip the quesadilla over and cook for another minute or two.
• Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and cut into triangles.
• Serve with salsa, guacamole, crema, or your favorite topping.

What are some popular variations and additional ingredients to add to a quesadilla de flor de calabaza?

Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza, a traditional Mexican dish, are typically made with squash blossoms, cheese, and a tortilla. To mix things up, there are many variations and additional ingredients you can add to this dish. Popular variations and additional ingredients include adding cooked shrimp, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and refried beans. You can also add fresh cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce for a zesty kick. To make a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken or steak. To make a vegetarian quesadilla, you can use a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant. For a cheesy quesadilla, you can add mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend cheese. Finally, to add some sweetness to your quesadilla, you can add diced pineapple or mango. With these variations and additional ingredients, you can make a delicious quesadilla de flor de calabaza that everyone will love.

What are some unique and creative ideas to serve quesadillas de flor de calabaza?

Serving quesadillas de flor de calabaza can be an exciting and unique way to add a new twist to traditional Mexican cuisine. Here are some creative and unique ideas for how to serve this delicious dish:

• Create quesadillas de flor de calabaza with a filling of creamy goat cheese and sweet roasted peppers. Serve with a side of homemade guacamole or salsa for dipping.
• Stuff your quesadillas de flor de calabaza with a savory filling of mushrooms, onions, and garlic, and top with a dollop of sour cream. Serve with a side of pico de gallo or salsa verde.
• Make your own quesadilla de flor de calabaza from scratch. Start with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions and garlic, and add a layer of crumbled cheese. Grill the quesadillas until golden brown, and serve with a side of refried beans and guacamole.
• Create a fun and unique take on quesadillas de flor de calabaza by adding a layer of cooked bacon or chorizo. Top your quesadillas with a sprinkle of cotija cheese and serve with a side of diced tomatoes and jalapeños.
• Stuff your quesadillas de flor de calabaza with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and melted Oaxaca cheese. Serve with a side of black beans and pico de gallo, and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.

No matter how you serve quesadillas de flor de calabaza, they are sure to be a hit with your guests. With these creative and unique ideas, you can add a unique twist to this traditional Mexican dish.