Take your quesadilla game to the next level with this Gouda Quesadilla with Cilantro Walnut Pesto recipe! Creamy Gouda cheese pairs perfectly with a bold, herbaceous pesto made from fresh cilantro, toasted walnuts, Parmesan, garlic, and a splash of zesty lime juice. Each tortilla is crisped to golden perfection in a skillet, sealing in the melty cheese and vibrant pesto for an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Ready in just 25 minutes, this easy yet elevated dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a shareable appetizer. Serve with extra pesto, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for added flair. Ideal for cheese lovers and anyone seeking a gourmet twist on a classic quesadilla!
1. Prepare the Cilantro Walnut Pesto by adding cilantro leaves, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, and salt to a food processor. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Set aside.
2. Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cilantro walnut pesto evenly over half of each tortilla.
3. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded Gouda cheese over the pesto-covered area of each tortilla.
4. Fold the tortillas in half to form a semi-circle and gently press down to seal.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1/2 tablespoon of butter or a drizzle of cooking oil for each quesadilla.
6. Cook each quesadilla for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, until golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Flip carefully and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side.
7. Once both sides are crispy and the cheese is fully melted, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and place it on a cutting board.
8. Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with extra pesto, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime.
Calories |
2830 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 213.2 g | 273% | |
| Saturated Fat | 83.8 g | 419% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 33.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 322 mg | 107% | |
| Sodium | 4620 mg | 201% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 145.8 g | 53% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.7 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.4 g | ||
| Protein | 95.8 g | 192% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.7 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 2201 mg | 169% | |
| Iron | 13.7 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 1297 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.