Get ready for a fusion of flavors with this recipe for Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas. This savory dish is perfect for a delightful lunch or dinner, merging the crispy edge of Parmesan-crusted quesadillas with the succulent taste of shrimp. It's deceptively simple to prepare, yet offering an extraordinary taste that will leave your palate craving for more.
The ingredients for this dish are mostly pantry staples, like olive oil, onions, and tortillas. However, you might need to look a bit harder for Monterey Jack cheese, which is a creamy, mild cheese that melts beautifully. If you can't find it, mozzarella would be a good substitute. Fresh shrimp might also need a trip to the seafood section or a supermarket. Lastly, the Parmesan cheese used for the crust should be freshly grated for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients for Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
Shrimp: A good source of protein, the shrimp brings a succulent texture and oceanic flavor to the quesadillas.
Cumin: An aromatic spice that adds depth and warmth to the shrimp.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the shrimp and brushing the quesadillas, it imparts a smooth, rich flavor.
Onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor when sautéed that complements the shrimp.
Jalapeno: Gives a spicy kick to balance the rich flavors.
Tortillas: The base of the quesadillas that holds all the ingredients together.
Avocado: Adds a creamy texture and fresh taste.
Tomatoes: Brings a juicy and tangy flavor to counter the rich cheese and shrimp.
Monterrey Jack cheese: Melts easily and gives the quesadillas a gooey, cheesy texture.
Parmesan cheese: Creates the crispy crust when baked and adds a sharp, umami flavor.
One reader, Demetris Waite says:
This parmesan-crusted shrimp quesadillas recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The crispy parmesan crust adds a delightful crunch to the succulent shrimp. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and unique twist on quesadillas. Highly recommended!
Cooking Techniques for Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
How to cook the shrimp: The shrimp should be cooked for about 2 minutes per side, or until they are pink and no longer translucent. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the shrimp.
How to sauté the onion and jalapeño: The onion and jalapeño should be sautéed for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is cooked and no longer translucent.
How to assemble the quesadillas: Layer the tortillas with cheese, avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, cooked shrimp, and the sautéed onion and jalapeño mixture. Then, top with more cheese and another tortilla before baking.
How to bake the quesadillas: Bake the assembled quesadillas for 10 to 15 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, or until the cheese is melted and the parmesan topping is golden brown.
How to serve the quesadillas: After baking, use a pizza cutter to slice the quesadillas into sixths and serve immediately with salsa.
How To Make Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
Enjoy a flavorful traditional Mexican fiesta with these cheesy shrimp quesadillas, generously crusted with Parmesan cheese, and spiced with jalapeno!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbshrimp,peeled, deveined
- 1tbspcumin
- sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper
- 3tbspolive oil,divided
- 1white onion,or yellow
- 1jalapeño,stemmed, seeded , finely diced, use more or less for desired level of heat
- 8medium tortillas
- 1avocado,peeled, pitted, diced
- 1cuptomatoes,sun-dried
- 3cupsMonterrey Jack cheese,shredded
- 1cupparmesan cheese,grated
Instructions
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Heat the oven to 350 degrees.
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Sprinkle the shrimp evenly with cumin and a generous pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until shrimp is pink and no longer translucent. (Depending on the size of your shrimp, they could take more or less time to cook.)
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Remove shrimp from the skillet, and heat an additional 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and jalapeno, and saute for 5 minutes or until the onion is cooked and no longer translucent. Remove skillet from heat and set aside.
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Lay out 2 to 3 tortillas on a baking sheet. Sprinkle each tortilla with about ½ cup of Monterrey Jack cheese. Then layer on the avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, shrimp, and the onion/jalapeno mixture as evenly as possible.
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Sprinkle each quesadilla with an additional ½ cup of Monterrey Jack cheese, and then top each with another tortilla.
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Brush (or mist) the remaining tablespoon of olive oil onto the top of the three tortillas, and then sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese.
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Bake for 10 to 15 minutes on the middle oven rack, or until the Parmesan is golden and the Monterrey Jack cheese is melted.
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Remove, and use a pizza cutter to slice quesadillas into sixths. Serve immediately with salsa.
Recipe Notes
If you don’t like shrimp, these would also be delicious with chicken, steak, sausage or even mushrooms.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1194.54kcal
- Fat: 80.05g
- Saturated Fat: 37.34g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 32.71g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.58g
- Carbohydrates: 45.17g
- Fiber: 10.17g
- Sugar: 5.37g
- Protein: 76.89g
- Cholesterol: 341.70mg
- Sodium: 2371.25mg
- Calcium: 1747.01mg
- Potassium: 993.38mg
- Iron: 4.47mg
- Vitamin A: 474.96µg
- Vitamin C: 22.28mg
Expert Tip for Perfecting Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
When cooking the shrimp, it's crucial to avoid overcooking as it can make the shrimp tough and rubbery. The shrimp should turn a bright pink and no longer be translucent when it's done. If you're unsure, you can cut into one to check. Also, when layering the ingredients on the tortilla, try to distribute them evenly to ensure every bite is filled with all the flavors. Lastly, for an extra crispy crust, don't be shy with the parmesan cheese on top. The more cheese, the crispier and more flavorful the crust will be.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the shrimp and chop the vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cooked shrimp: Opt for pre-cooked shrimp to cut down on cooking time and simplify the process.
Assembly line: Set up an assembly line for filling the quesadillas to streamline the process and ensure consistent results.
Double batch: Consider making a double batch and freezing the extra quesadillas for quick and convenient future meals.
One-pan cooking: Use one pan for cooking the shrimp and another for sautéing the vegetables to save time and minimize cleanup.
Pre-shredded cheese: Utilize pre-shredded cheese to eliminate the need for grating, saving time and effort in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas Recipe
parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese that can provide a similar flavor profile to parmesan. It has a slightly sharper taste, which can add depth to the dish.
shrimp - Substitute with sliced chicken breast: Sliced chicken breast can be used as a substitute for shrimp to create a different flavor profile while still maintaining the protein element in the quesadillas.
Plating Ideas for Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
Elevate the shrimp: Arrange the cooked shrimp in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are the star of the dish. Consider layering them in a circular pattern or creating a cascading effect to showcase their succulence and flavor.
Artful quesadilla placement: Carefully position the quesadillas on the plate, ensuring they are neatly stacked or arranged in a manner that highlights the layers and ingredients within. Pay attention to symmetry and balance for an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with finely chopped cilantro or chives to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness. The vibrant green hues will complement the other ingredients and add a sophisticated touch to the overall presentation.
Incorporate colorful accents: Introduce vibrant elements such as thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers to add visual interest and a delightful contrast to the dish. The addition of colorful accents will enhance the overall visual appeal.
Drizzle with a zesty sauce: Create an artistic drizzle of a complementary sauce, such as a chipotle-lime aioli or a mango salsa reduction, to add a burst of flavor and a visually captivating element to the plate.
Use geometric shapes for avocado: Slice the avocado into precise, geometric shapes and arrange them in an eye-catching pattern. This meticulous approach adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Plate with precision: Pay close attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the quesadillas, shrimp, and accompanying elements are meticulously arranged with attention to detail and precision.
Accentuate with edible flowers: Introduce delicate, edible flowers such as microgreens or nasturtiums to add a touch of elegance and a whimsical, gourmet flair to the presentation. The blossoms will provide a visually stunning and sophisticated touch to the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
- Oven: You will need an oven to bake the quesadillas.
- Skillet: A skillet is used to cook the shrimp, onion, and jalapeno.
- Baking sheet: This is used to assemble and bake the quesadillas.
- Pizza cutter: A pizza cutter is used to slice the quesadillas into portions.
- Brush or mist: This is used to apply the olive oil onto the top of the quesadillas before baking.
- Food processor: You can use a food processor to shred the cheese if needed.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl may be used for preparing the shrimp and seasoning.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
To store leftover quesadillas, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For best results, reheat refrigerated quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
To freeze quesadillas, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped quesadillas in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and label with the date. Frozen quesadillas can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat frozen quesadillas, remove them from the freezer and unwrap. Place them on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until crispy and heated through.
Note that the texture of the tortillas may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should remain delicious. For best results, consume frozen quesadillas within 1-2 months.
How To Reheat Leftover Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover quesadillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. This method will help restore the crispiness of the parmesan crust and ensure the filling is heated through evenly.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the quesadillas. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the quesadillas directly on the rack. Toast for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
For a quick and easy method, you can use a skillet or griddle to reheat the quesadillas. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the quesadillas on the hot surface and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. This method will give you a nice, crispy exterior and a warm, gooey filling.
If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave to reheat the quesadillas. Place the quesadillas on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 30-60 seconds or until the cheese is melted. However, keep in mind that the tortillas may become slightly soggy using this method.
For a unique twist, try cutting the leftover quesadillas into smaller triangles and reheating them in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the quesadilla triangles in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. This method will give you a healthier version of the reheated quesadillas without compromising on taste or texture.
Interesting Trivia About Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
Parmesan-crusted shrimp quesadillas are a delicious fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisine.
Is Making Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this parmesan-crusted shrimp quesadillas recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. Shrimp and parmesan cheese can be pricier, but the use of affordable staples like tortillas, onions, and jalapenos balances the cost. The dish's versatility and ability to feed a family of four make it a reasonable investment. On a scale of 1-10, this recipe earns an 8 for flavor and creativity. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $25-$30, making it a relatively economical choice for a special meal.
Are Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas Healthy or Unhealthy?
The parmesan-crusted shrimp quesadillas recipe is a delicious and indulgent dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of cheese, which is high in saturated fat and calories. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
- The tortillas used in the recipe are likely made from refined flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
- The recipe calls for frying the shrimp and sautéing the onions and jalapeños in olive oil, which adds extra fat and calories to the dish.
However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source that is low in calories and high in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12.
- The recipe includes healthy ingredients like avocado, which is a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, and tomatoes, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use whole grain tortillas instead of refined flour tortillas to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
- Reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe, or opt for a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella.
- Instead of frying the shrimp and sautéing the vegetables in oil, try grilling or baking them to reduce the added fat and calories.
- Add more vegetables to the quesadillas, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
- Serve the quesadillas with a side salad or fresh salsa to add more vitamins and minerals to the meal.
Editor's Opinion on Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas
The parmesan-crusted shrimp quesadillas recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and zesty jalapeno creates a harmonious blend, while the crispy parmesan crust adds a delightful crunch. The use of monterrey jack cheese binds the ingredients together, resulting in a gooey, indulgent filling. The recipe's simple yet effective cooking techniques ensure that the shrimp is perfectly cooked and the flavors are well-balanced. Overall, this dish is a delicious and inventive take on traditional quesadillas, perfect for a gourmet appetizer or a satisfying main course.
Enhance Your Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Parmesan-Crusted Shrimp Quesadillas Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, ensuring a mouthwatering experience. The succulent shrimp is seasoned to perfection with cumin and paired with the rich, nutty essence of parmesan cheese. The harmonious blend of monterrey jack cheese and fresh avocado adds a creamy element, while the jalapeno and tomatoes infuse a hint of zest and freshness. The meticulous layering and baking process ensures a crispy, golden crust, elevating the tortillas to a delectable, satisfying dish.
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