Introduction
Delve into a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of mango, the heat of chipotle, and the savory goodness of shrimp. These crispy quesadillas are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With a burst of flavors and textures, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow this easy recipe to whip up a delicious meal that will impress everyone.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Shrimp: 1 pound raw peeled and deveined shrimp
Kosher salt and pepper: to taste
Olive oil: for cooking and brushing
Hot honey: 2 tablespoons
Chipotle pepper: 1, diced
Adobo sauce: 1 tablespoon (from the can of chipotles)
Mango: 1 ripe, diced
Cherry tomatoes: ½ cup, quartered or diced
Red onion: 3 tablespoons, diced
Cilantro: 3 tablespoons, chopped fresh
Lime: 1, juiced
Flour tortillas: 4 (soft taco size)
Sharp cheddar cheese: 6 ounces, grated
Monterey Jack cheese: 3 ounces, grated
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 31 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly brush a baking sheet with olive oil.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp, add the hot honey and diced chipotle pepper, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to bubble. Remove from heat.
4. In a bowl, combine the diced mango, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper, stir, and let sit for a few minutes.
5. Place a tortilla on the prepared baking sheet. On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle some grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, add a portion of the shrimp mixture, a spoonful of mango salsa, and top with more cheese. Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling and brush the top with olive oil. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. Carefully flip each quesadilla and bake for an additional 8 minutes until the tortillas are crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven, slice into triangles, and serve with the remaining mango salsa.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly brush a baking sheet with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with kosher salt and pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp, then add the hot honey and diced chipotle pepper, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to bubble. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Make the Mango Salsa
In a bowl, combine the diced mango, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper, stir, and let sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Assemble the Quesadillas
Place a tortilla on the prepared baking sheet. On one half of the tortilla, sprinkle some grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Add a portion of the shrimp mixture, followed by a spoonful of mango salsa, and top with more cheese. Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling and brush the top with olive oil. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
Step 6: Bake the Quesadillas
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. Carefully flip each quesadilla and bake for an additional 8 minutes until the tortillas are crispy and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from the oven, slice into triangles, and serve with the remaining mango salsa.
Notes
Tip for Shrimp
Ensure the shrimp is well-dried before seasoning to improve the searing process.
Adjust Heat Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of hot honey and chipotle pepper according to your heat preference.
Vegetable Options
Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and flavor in the quesadillas.
Cheese Variations
Other cheese options like pepper jack or gouda can be used for a different flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Preparing Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor and ensure proper browning.
Cooking Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook shrimp in a single layer until they are pink and opaque, about 1 to 2 minutes on each side.
Making the Mango Salsa
Combine diced mango, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Assembling Quesadillas
Layer grated cheese, shrimp mixture, and mango salsa on one half of the tortilla, then fold it over and brush the top with olive oil before baking.
Baking Quesadillas
Bake quesadillas at 425°F (218°C) for 8 minutes, then flip and bake for another 8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What can I substitute for chipotle pepper?
You can substitute with a mild chili pepper or omit it altogether for a less spicy version.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms and use the same seasonings.
Can I prepare the mango salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mango salsa a few hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
The combination of shrimp, mango salsa, and melted cheeses creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures in these quesadillas. The addition of hot honey and chipotle brings a unique twist that elevates this dish, making it not just a meal, but a culinary experience. Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful contrast of spice, sweetness, and creaminess.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Chicken Quesadillas
Substitute shrimp with sliced grilled chicken. Add diced bell peppers and onions for additional flavor, and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Quesadillas
Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. Use a mix of mozzarella and feta cheese for a creamy and tangy taste.
Fish Tacos
Swap out the shrimp for grilled white fish, such as tilapia or cod. Serve with a cilantro-lime crema and fresh cabbage slaw for a refreshing twist.
Breakfast Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, diced tomatoes, and crumbled breakfast sausage. Add cheddar cheese and serve with avocado slices.
Spicy Beef Quesadillas
Use ground beef seasoned with taco spices instead of shrimp. Add jalapeños and sharp cheddar for a hearty meal with a spicy touch.
