Sassy, savory quesadillas

June 21, 8:55 PMCheese ExaminerP.A. Flaherty

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It’s summer time, and the cooking is easy. Who wants to spend a gorgeous evening in the kitchen when the beach and the bike path beckon? As the mercury rises, and your family’s stomachs grumble, you don’t have to sacrifice variety and nutrition just to avoid an hour in front of a hot oven. If you are tired of baking, and your significant other is sick of salads, let me suggest a simple Mexican dish that even a gringo (or gringa) can embrace.

“Queso” is the Spanish word for cheese. Many spicy, zesty Mexican dishes feature strong and flavorful cheeses. Unfortunately, not every chef has the ultimate in Mexican cheeses, queso anejo, (an intense, dry, white cheese) in their kitchen. Use what you have. As with any ethnic cuisine, the taste of Mexican dishes is enhanced by the use of authentic spices, sauces, and vegetables. There are, however, many quick Mexican dishes that the average cook can whip up with just a few affordable ingredients. Next time you need a fast but filling summer dinner, try my quick quesadillas!

Savory Summer Quesadillas:

Ingredients:

Eight six-inch tortillas (traditional or whole wheat)
1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, rinsed
¼ cup chopped, red tomato
3 tablespoons chopped, fresh cilantro leaves
4 ounces shredded jalapeno jack cheese
10 ounces fresh spinach, washed, stemmed, and finely shredded
¼ cup hot or medium spiced salsa (home made is preferable)
Optional-In lieu of beans, can add 10-15 ounces of marinated chicken strips
Optional-can add 1 tablespoon of freshly made guacamole
Directions:
1. Lay out 4 tortillas.
2. In a large bowl, mash the beans (or chicken) with the tomato and cilantro.
3. Spread the bean mixture out evenly over the four tortillas.
4. Sprinkle tortillas generously with cheese, spinach, and salsa.
5. Optional-add guacamole.
6. Top carefully with the remaining tortillas.
7. To avoid the heat of baking, cook the quesadillas on medium heat in a cast-iron skillet.
8. Turn the quesadillas once, and cook until the cheese melts evenly.
9. Cut into wedges.
10. Serve hot and enjoy with a cool summer libation.