Kitchen Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Large skillet or pan
- Spatula for sautéing
- Knife and cutting board
Directions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Add the baby spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the vegetables with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas
- Lay out 4 tortillas on a clean surface.
- Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over each tortilla.
- Evenly distribute the sautéed spinach and mushroom mixture on top of the cheese layer.
- Add another layer of cheese on top of the vegetables to help the tortillas stick together.
- Place a second tortilla on top of each to create the quesadilla.
Step 3: Bake the Quesadillas
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray.
- Carefully transfer the quesadillas to the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let the quesadillas cool slightly before slicing them into quarters.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the quesadillas with your favorite toppings like organic sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy them as a meal on their own, or pair them with a light salad for a complete dish.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use Fresh Organic Ingredients: For the best flavor and nutritional value, opt for organic produce whenever possible. Fresh mushrooms and spinach will give you the richest taste and texture.
- Baking vs. Pan-Frying: Baking the quesadillas gives them an even, crispy texture while keeping the oil content low. If you prefer a more traditional method, you can pan-fry them in a little olive oil for a golden crust.
- Customizable Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can add organic bell peppers, zucchini, or even black beans for a protein boost. Just be mindful of how much moisture your veggies release, so the quesadillas don’t get soggy.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar or mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different types of organic cheese, like Monterey Jack, or even a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free option.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftover quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to regain some crispiness.
To freeze, wrap individual quesadillas in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or skillet.