The enticing aroma of sautéed shrimp fills the air, and suddenly, I’m transported to a sun-kissed beach where fresh seafood is the star of every meal. It’s amazing how food can evoke such strong memories, isn’t it? That’s exactly how I felt the day I decided to whip up these Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa. Bursting with flavors and textures, they blend succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and gooey cheese into a dish that’s surprisingly quick to prepare.
After a busy day, diving into these quesadillas feels like a reward. In just 30 minutes, you can create a luscious, low-carb meal that’s high in protein and easy on the calories. This recipe is for everyone tired of the same old fast food options and in search of something refreshing and healthy. Trust me, one bite of these crispy quesadillas paired with that zesty salsa, and you’ll be hooked. Let’s gather our ingredients and discover how simple and satisfying homemade food can truly be!
Why Are Shrimp Quesadillas So Irresistible?
Delicious Flavors: The vibrant combination of shrimp, creamy avocado, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that elevates your meal.
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes needed from start to finish, you can indulge in these tasty quesadillas without the stress of long cooking times.
Nutrition Made Easy: Packed with high protein and low carbs, this dish is both satisfying and light, perfect for fitness enthusiasts or anyone seeking a healthier option.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize; switch out shrimp for chicken or mix in extra veggies to match your preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these quesadillas are sure to impress everyone! Enjoy them with a refreshing side salad or get creative by adding jalapeños for an extra kick!
Shrimp Quesadilla Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to whip up your delicious Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa!
For the Quesadillas
- Large Shrimp (16, cleaned and deveined) – The star ingredient, providing rich flavor and protein.
- Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy depth, enhancing the shrimp’s flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the dish’s flavor profile; fresh garlic is a great alternative.
- Salt and Fresh Pepper – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors, adjust to your taste.
- Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking during cooking; olive oil works well too.
- Scallions (4, chopped) – Introduces mild onion flavor and freshness to the quesadilla.
- Cabot’s 75% Light Vermont Cheddar (6 oz, shredded) – Brings creamy texture and rich flavor; low-fat pepper jack can add spice.
- Low Carb Whole Wheat Flour Tortillas (8, 6″ size) – The perfect base for your quesadilla; consider corn tortillas for gluten-free options.
For the Tomato Avocado Salsa
- Medium Tomato (1, diced) – Contributes fresh taste and hydration; cherry tomatoes offer a sweeter alternative.
- Hass Avocado (1, diced) – Infuses creaminess and healthy fats; make sure it’s ripe for the best flavor.
- Lime (1, juice only) – Brightens and adds acidity to the salsa; lemon juice can substitute in a pinch.
- Cilantro (1 tbsp, chopped) – Imparts a fresh, herbaceous note; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
- Red Onion (1 tbsp, finely minced) – Adds a crunchy texture and sharp flavor; swap with green onions if preferred.
Gather these ingredients, and let’s dive into crafting your tantalizing Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa!
How to Make Shrimp Quesadillas
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Prepare the Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine diced tomato, avocado, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Season Shrimp: In a bowl, season the cleaned and deveined shrimp with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure every shrimp is coated to enhance the flavor.
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Cook Shrimp and Scallions: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spray with cooking spray and add the shrimp along with chopped scallions. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove from heat and slice shrimp in half lengthwise.
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Assemble Quesadilla: In the same skillet, lightly spray oil again. Place one tortilla in the skillet, layer it with shredded cheese, shrimp halves, and a generous dollop of your prepared salsa.
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Toast Quesadilla: Cook until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully place another tortilla on top, flip using a plate, and toast the other side until it’s golden brown as well.
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Serve: Cut into wedges and serve immediately with remaining salsa on the side for extra flavor. Enjoy!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving for a vibrant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the salsa and season the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Just combine the diced tomato, avocado, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in an airtight container and store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. For the shrimp, season them with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply sauté the shrimp and assemble your quesadillas as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights!
Helpful Tricks for Shrimp Quesadillas
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are cooked just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so watch closely!
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Tortilla Crispiness: For an extra crispy quesadilla, use a medium-high heat. It helps produce that golden-brown crust while keeping the cheese gooey inside.
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Layering for Flavor: Don’t skimp on the salsa inside the quesadilla! That juicy Tomato Avocado Salsa enhances the overall flavor, keeping each bite vibrant and fresh.
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Customize Your Filling: If you prefer variety, feel free to add bell peppers or spinach to the shrimp mixture. It boosts nutrition and adds color to your Shrimp Quesadillas.
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Storage Insight: Leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for better texture compared to microwaving!
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Experiment with Cheese: Trying different cheeses can elevate your quesadilla game. Pepper jack adds some heat, while Monterey Jack offers a mild creaminess.
Shrimp Quesadilla Variations
Customize your shrimp quesadillas with fun twists and delightful substitutions to make each bite uniquely yours!
- Chicken Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken for a hearty alternative that works beautifully with the same spices.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use black beans or grilled zucchini instead of shrimp for a satisfying vegetarian quesadilla.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers and spinach into the filling for added nutrition and a burst of color.
- Spicy Kick: Swap in pepper jack cheese or mix in some diced jalapeños for a fiery flavor boost that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the salsa for an aromatic twist that uplifts the dish.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or feta for a creamy, tangy twist that’s sure to please.
- Salsa Twist: Try mango salsa or pineapple pico de gallo instead of tomato avocado for a refreshing tropical flare.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular tortillas with gluten-free or cauliflower tortillas for a lighter, carb-conscious choice.
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Quesadillas
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. While they can be savored cold, reheating will bring them back to life!
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through for optimal texture. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them soggy.
Enjoy Freshness: For the best taste, these Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa are ideal when served fresh, but your meal prep just got easier with these smart storage tips!
What to Serve with Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa?
Creating a memorable meal is all about delightful pairings that complement and enhance flavors.
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Fresh Corn Salad: This vibrant side dish offers a sweet crunch that perfectly balances the rich, creamy quesadillas while adding a burst of color to your plate.
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Zesty Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw brings a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy quesadillas, brightening every bite with its crisp texture.
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Cucumber Tomato Salad: A light salad with cucumber and tomatoes provides a refreshing, juicy accompaniment that pairs well with the smoky flavors of the shrimp.
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Creamy Guacamole: Smooth, rich guacamole adds another layer of flavor and creaminess that enhances the shrimp quesadillas and the zesty salsa.
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Spicy Black Bean Soup: This hearty soup offers a warm, fulfilling accompaniment filled with protein, nicely matching the lightness of the quesadilla.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the seafood’s natural sweetness without overpowering it.
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Mango Salsa: An exotic twist to the traditional salsa, mango salsa provides a sweet and tangy flavor that elevates your quesadilla experience to new heights.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant side offers a subtle zesty twist, bringing a hint of citrus that harmonizes wonderfully with the quesadilla’s rich flavors.
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Fruit Sorbet: To round off your meal, a light and refreshing sorbet can cleanse the palate, making it a perfect dessert to follow your savory quesadilla feast.
Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting shrimp?
Absolutely! Look for large, cleaned, and deveined shrimp with a firm texture and a mild ocean scent. If possible, choose shrimp that are translucent and glossy without dark spots all over, which indicate they may be past their prime.
How should I store leftover Shrimp Quesadillas?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you’re packing them for lunch, just remember that they’re best enjoyed warm; reheating in a skillet provides a lovely texture!
Can I freeze Shrimp Quesadillas?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag, sealing out as much air as possible. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat them in a skillet on medium heat until warmed through.
What if my shrimp come out rubbery?
That’s a common hiccup! To avoid rubbery shrimp, make sure to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the heat. Keep a close watch, and don’t let them sit in the skillet for too long.
Are these quesadillas suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the low-carb whole wheat flour tortillas for gluten-free corn tortillas. This way, everyone can savor these tasty Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa without worry!
Can I use other proteins in this recipe?
The more the merrier! If shrimp aren’t your thing, feel free to substitute with grilled chicken or black beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for your chosen protein to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
Shrimp Quesadillas with Tomato Avocado Salsa That Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine diced tomato, avocado, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and set aside.
- In a bowl, season the shrimp with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat evenly.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spray with cooking spray and add the shrimp and scallions. Cook until shrimp is pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and slice shrimp in half lengthwise.
- In the same skillet, lightly spray oil again. Place one tortilla in the skillet, layer with shredded cheese, shrimp halves, and salsa.
- Cook until cheese melts and tortilla is golden, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully place another tortilla on top, flip using a plate, and toast the other side until golden brown.
- Cut into wedges and serve immediately with remaining salsa on the side.