Introduction
In this delicious recipe, we’ll combine an array of fresh ingredients to create mouthwatering quesadillas. With juicy minced beef, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheese, these quesadillas are sure to satisfy any craving. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, this dish is not only tasty but also simple to prepare.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 onions
– 3 large ripe tomatoes
– 6 jarred pickles in brine
– 2 little gem or ½ an iceberg lettuce
– 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 500g higher-welfare minced beef
– 8 plain tortillas
– Olive oil
– 75g Cheddar cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Peel and very finely slice the onions into rounds, setting most aside. Roughly chop 2 tomatoes, the remaining sliced onion, the pickles, and the inner lettuce leaves, keeping some whole lettuce leaves aside for later. Finely chop and mix everything together.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of juice from the pickle jar. Finely grate in the remaining tomato, season well, then place the chopped salad on top, ready for tossing together at the last minute.
Step 3: Prepare the Minced Beef
Place the minced beef into a bowl, season with a little sea salt and black pepper, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of juice from the pickle jar, then scrunch and mix everything together.
Step 4: Fill the Tortillas
Divide the mixture into 4 and place in the middle of 4 tortillas, squashing and patting the mince right out to the edges in an even layer. Scatter over the finely sliced onions, pressing them down slightly.
Step 5: Cook the First Side
Place a non-stick frying pan on a medium-high heat, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and add one of the tortillas, topping-side down. Cook for 3 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Step 6: Cook the Quesadilla
Carefully flip over, grate over a quarter of the cheese, then place another tortilla on top, and press down with a fish slice. Cook for 1 minute, then flip over (an easy way to do this is to slide it onto a plate, then carefully flip it back into the pan). Cook for a further 3 minutes, or until golden on both sides and the cheese is melted.
Step 7: Serve
Slide the quesadilla onto a board and slice up. Toss the chopped salad with the sauce and place a quarter of it in the center with some of the reserved lettuce leaves, then tuck in, loading up the quesadilla with salad as you go. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the quesadillas warm, accompanied by the salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage Information
Leftover quesadillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute the minced beef with minced chicken or a vegetarian option like black beans or lentils.
Tips for Perfect Quesadillas
Ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the tortillas to achieve a crispy texture.
Cook techniques
Slicing Onions
Peel the onions and slice them very finely into rounds. This enhances their flavor and ensures they cook evenly.
Chopping Tomatoes
When chopping tomatoes, aim for rough, bite-sized pieces. This allows the tomato flavor to infuse into the dish while retaining some texture.
Mixing Salad Ingredients
Combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced onions, pickles, and lettuce leaves in a bowl. This mixture adds freshness and crunch to the final dish.
Making Mayonnaise Sauce
Mix mayonnaise with pickle jar juice to create a tangy dressing. Grating in fresh tomato adds moisture and flavor.
Preparing Minced Beef
Season the minced beef with sea salt, black pepper, and pickle juice. Mixing thoroughly ensures the flavor is evenly distributed.
Assembling Quesadillas
Divide the beef mixture among tortillas, spreading it out to the edges. This ensures an even cooking and a satisfying filling in each bite.
Cooking Quesadillas
In a non-stick frying pan, cook the quesadilla filling side down first. Flipping it allows for a golden crust and melty cheese inside.
Flipping Techniques
To flip the quesadilla, slide it onto a plate and carefully invert it back into the pan. This minimizes breakage and keeps the filling intact.
Serving with Salad
Serve the quesadillas with the chopped salad in the center, using the reserved lettuce leaves as wraps to add a refreshing crunch in each bite.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute with chicken, turkey, or a vegetarian option like black beans or lentils.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the minced beef mixture.
What if I don’t have tortillas?
You can use pita bread, naan, or any flatbread as a substitute.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop the salad ingredients and mix the dressing, but assemble just before serving for freshness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan for best texture.
Conclusion
This recipe brings together a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with the savory minced beef, creamy mayonnaise, and fresh vegetables all wrapped in crispy tortillas. The layers of cheese and the tang from the pickles elevate the dish, making it a satisfying meal. Enjoy the quesadillas while warm, accompanied by a refreshing salad for a complete experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Quesadillas
Substitute minced beef with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. Add black beans for extra protein and flavor.
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Replace the minced beef with shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with taco seasoning. Add diced jalapeños for heat and top with avocado slices.
Cheesy Sliders
Use the same beef mixture but form small patties and cook them as sliders. Serve on mini buns topped with pickles and a dollop of the mayonnaise sauce.
Tomato & Pickle Bruschetta
Finely chop tomatoes, pickles, and onions, then mix with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Serve on toasted baguette slices as an appetizer.
Stuffed Lettuce Wraps
Use the chopped beef mixture as filling in the whole lettuce leaves, adding shredded carrots and cilantro for a fresh crunch.
Cheesy Beef Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with the seasoned minced beef and grated cheddar cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then top with chopped tomatoes, pickles, and dollops of mayonnaise sauce.
