Prawn quesadilla is a delicious variation of the classic quesadilla, featuring succulent prawns as the main ingredient.
To prepare a prawn quesadilla, prawns are typically seasoned with a blend of spices such as chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and lime juice, then sautéed until they are cooked through and slightly caramelized.
A large flour tortilla is then filled with a generous amount of shredded cheese (commonly Monterey Jack or cheddar), along with the cooked prawns. The tortilla is then folded in half to encase the filling, creating a half-moon shape.
The quesadilla is cooked on a skillet or griddle over medium heat until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
Once cooked, the prawn quesadilla is typically served with a side of salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or other toppings for dipping.
It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the bold flavors of prawns with the cheesy goodness
Estimated Duration
Embark on the journey of making and enjoying Prawn Quesadillas with a total time of approximately 25 minutes. This includes preparation, cooking, and assembling the quesadillas.
Nutrition Facts
Prawn Quesadillas offer a protein-rich combination of prawns and cheese, complemented by fresh ingredients. While not the lightest option, they provide a satisfying and flavorful seafood experience.
Equipment Required
Before diving into the world of Prawn Quesadillas, ensure you have the following equipment:
- Skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
Ingredients:
For the Prawn Filling:
- 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Quesadillas:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (assorted colors)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Cooking spray or oil for cooking
Optional Toppings:
Instructions:
Prepare the Prawn Filling:
Season the Prawns:
- In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined prawns with olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
Cook the Prawns:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned prawns for 2-3 minutes per side or until they are opaque and cooked through.
Assemble and Cook the Quesadillas:
Preheat the Skillet:
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Build the Quesadillas:
- Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Sprinkle a portion of shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Add a layer of cooked prawns, diced bell peppers, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro on top of the cheese.
- Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling, creating a half-moon shape.
Cook the Quesadillas:
- Lightly coat the preheated skillet with cooking spray or oil.
- Place the assembled quesadilla on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Repeat for Remaining Quesadillas:
- Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas and filling.
Slice and Serve:
- Remove the quesadillas from the skillet and let them rest for a moment. Slice each quesadilla into wedges.
Garnish and Enjoy:
- Serve the Prawn Quesadillas warm, garnished with optional toppings like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and lime wedges.
Tips and Advice:
- Use a cast-iron skillet for a crispy exterior on the quesadillas.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties to find your favorite combination.
Enjoy with these Side Dishes:
Pair Prawn Quesadillas with sides like a refreshing avocado salad, black bean and corn salsa, or a light cucumber and tomato salad.
Storage Options:
Assemble Prawn Quesadillas just before serving to maintain their freshness. Store any leftover cooked prawns and components separately in the refrigerator.
Ingredient Substitutes:
Feel free to customize the filling ingredients based on your preferences. You can also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Popular Alternatives to this Dish:
Explore more seafood-inspired dishes like Prawn Quesadilla, Fish Tacos, or Tacos de Ceviche for a diverse and delightful seafood experience. Each option showcases the unique flavors of the ocean.
