Roasted Vegetable Quesadilla Recipe with Zucchini, Carrots & Red Cabbage
Description
The Roasted Vegetable Quesadilla Recipe is a wholesome, high-protein vegetarian dish that blends the nutrition of fresh vegetables with the rich flavor of melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for dinner or as a satisfying snack. The quesadillas are made with whole wheat tortillas, roasted vegetables, and a touch of spice from cumin and Tabasco sauce, making it a balanced and delightful option for any meal.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
For Whole Wheat Tortillas
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Info (Per Serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 2 cups | High in fiber, good source of complex carbohydrates |
| Salt | To taste | Low in sodium if used sparingly |
For Roasted Vegetables
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Info (Per Serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Onion (Bulb & Greens) | 4 stalks, finely chopped | Low-calorie, rich in antioxidants |
| Carrots (Gajjar) | 1, finely chopped | High in beta-carotene and vitamin A |
| Yellow Zucchini | 1, finely chopped | Low in calories, good source of potassium |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, finely chopped | High in vitamin C and antioxidants |
| Red Cabbage | 1 cup, finely chopped | High in fiber, low in calories |
| Tabasco Original Hot Sauce | 1 tsp | Adds a spicy kick with minimal calories |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 tsp | Aids digestion, provides a warm, earthy flavor |
| Processed Cheese | 1 cup, grated | High in protein and calcium |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | For cooking | Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats |
Prep and Cook Times
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 50 minutes |
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
- Begin by preparing all the vegetables. Finely chop the spring onions, carrots, zucchini, red bell pepper, and red cabbage.
- Heat a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the spring onions, carrots, and zucchini.
- Sauté until the carrots and zucchini begin to soften slightly.
Step 2: Roast the Vegetables
- Add the finely chopped red cabbage to the pan and sprinkle salt to taste. Stir to mix the vegetables and salt evenly.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook on medium heat until the vegetables are tender but retain a slight crunch.
- Stir in the cumin powder and Tabasco sauce, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed. Remove the pan from heat and set the roasted vegetables aside to cool.
Step 3: Make the Whole Wheat Tortillas
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt. Gradually add water while kneading to form a firm, smooth dough.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil to the dough and knead for an additional minute. Divide the dough into balls roughly the size of a large lemon.
- Roll each ball on a floured surface into an 8-inch tortilla.
Step 4: Cook the Tortillas
- Preheat a skillet or flat pan over medium heat. Place the rolled tortilla onto the skillet.
- Cook each side for about 1-2 minutes, pressing gently around the edges to ensure even cooking. Flip until both sides are golden brown.
- Optionally, cook over an open flame for a puffed texture, similar to a phulka. Set aside the cooked tortillas.
Step 5: Assemble the Quesadillas
- Keep the skillet on low heat. Place a tortilla on the skillet and spread a portion of the roasted vegetables over one-half of it.
- Evenly sprinkle grated cheese over the vegetables. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling, forming a semi-circle.
- Press down gently and drizzle a little olive oil on the skillet. Cook until the quesadilla is golden and crispy on both sides.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Roasted Vegetable Quesadilla hot, paired with a side of creamy Greek Yogurt Dip or your favorite salsa. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a wholesome snack for kids and adults alike.
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: Include crumbled paneer or tofu for extra protein.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or corn.
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika to the roasted vegetables.
This recipe is a delightful blend of taste and nutrition that is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
