Spinach and Feta Quesadillas

Spinach and Feta Quesadillas are a delicious, savory twist on the classic quesadilla. They feature a perfect balance of creamy feta cheese and fresh spinach, all melted together between two crispy flour tortillas. The filling can be easily spiced up with garlic, onions, and a squeeze of lemon, offering a bright, savory flavor that complements the richness of the cheese. These quesadillas are the perfect vegetarian option for a quick snack, lunch, or even a light dinner.

I first made these quesadillas when I was looking for a lighter, meat-free meal that was still full of flavor, and they became an instant favorite. The spinach adds a freshness that pairs wonderfully with the salty, tangy feta, while the crispy tortilla gives each bite a satisfying crunch. What I love most about this recipe is how simple yet delicious it is—you can add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers or even sprinkle in some herbs like oregano for more flavor. These quesadillas are a great option when you want something quick, tasty, and satisfying!

Perfect for:

• Quick lunches
• Light dinners
• Meatless meals
• Snack time
• Spinach and cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Spinach and Feta Quesadillas will be your new favorite dish:

• Irresistible Flavor Combo: The mild yet flavorful spinach pairs beautifully with the tangy feta cheese for a satisfying bite.
• Crispy and Golden: The tortillas are toasted to perfection, creating a crispy exterior with a warm, gooey interior.
• Quick and Easy: These quesadillas come together in just a few minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with spinach, they’re a nutritious option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
• Versatile Filling: You can customize the filling by adding other vegetables, herbs, or even a sprinkle of your favorite spices.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week for a quick meal.
• Great for All Ages: Whether you’re making them for kids or adults, these quesadillas are always a hit.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, offering a satisfying meat-free meal.
• Low-Cost Meal: The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious cooks.
• Satisfying and Filling: With the combination of cheese and spinach, these quesadillas provide a great balance of protein and fiber.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Quesadillas:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Salsa or hot sauce

Ingredient Highlights

• Fresh Spinach: Full of vitamins and minerals, adding a healthy green boost to your meal.
• Feta Cheese: Offers a tangy and creamy contrast to the spinach, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Olive Oil: Adds a bit of richness and helps achieve that crispy, golden exterior.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For extra meltiness and a smooth texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and ground cumin (if using). Remove from heat.
3. Combine Cheeses: In a bowl, mix the crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella together.

Assemble the Quesadillas:

4. Heat a Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with a bit of oil or cooking spray.
5. Add Filling to Tortilla: Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over the tortilla, followed by half of the spinach and onion mixture. Top with another tortilla.
6. Cook and Flip: Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, or until golden and crispy. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat: Remove the first quesadilla from the pan and repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Serve:

8. Slice and Serve: Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce, if desired.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Spinach and Feta Quesadillas:

• With Fresh Salsa: Serve with homemade or store-bought salsa for a burst of flavor.
• As a Light Lunch: Pair with a side salad or fresh fruit for a light, satisfying lunch.
• With Avocado: Add sliced avocado or guacamole for extra creaminess and flavor.
• As a Snack: Perfect for an afternoon snack with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• With a Side of Rice: Serve with cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal.
• For Meal Prep: Make several quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a quick meal.
• With a Spicy Dip: Add a spicy chili dip or sriracha for a kick.
• For Dinner Parties: Cut into smaller pieces and serve as appetizers for a party or gathering.
• With a Smoothie: Pair with a refreshing fruit smoothie for a light, balanced meal.
• For a Picnic: These quesadillas are portable and easy to take on the go for a picnic or lunchbox.

Additional Tips

• Crisp the Tortillas: For extra crispy quesadillas, press down lightly with a spatula while cooking.
• Use a Non-Stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet makes flipping and cooking quesadillas easier.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling for more flavor and nutrition.
• Use Gluten-Free Tortillas: If you’re gluten-free, swap out regular flour tortillas for gluten-free ones.
• Perfectly Melted Cheese: Allow the cheese to melt completely before flipping for the best texture.

Recipe Variations

• Add Chicken: Add grilled chicken breast to the filling for a heartier option.
• Spicy Spinach and Feta Quesadillas: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Quesadillas: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a burst of flavor.
• Spinach and Ricotta Quesadillas: Swap the feta for ricotta cheese for a milder filling.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan feta and cheese substitutes for a dairy-free version.

Special Equipment

• Non-Stick Skillet: For easy cooking and flipping of the quesadillas.
• Spatula: To flip the quesadillas and prevent them from breaking.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing the quesadillas into wedges.
• Grater: For shredding mozzarella if using block cheese.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes, frozen spinach works fine. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
2. How long do these quesadillas last?
   Leftover quesadillas can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze these quesadillas?
   Yes, freeze the cooked quesadillas for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free tortillas to make these quesadillas suitable for a gluten-free diet.
5. Can I add meat to these quesadillas?
   Absolutely! Grilled chicken or ground beef would be delicious additions.
6. What’s the best way to reheat quesadillas?
   Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until the cheese is melty and the tortillas are crispy again.
7. Can I use other cheeses?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
8. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the quesadillas when ready to cook.
9. Can I make these without cheese?
   Yes, omit the cheese for a dairy-free version, or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
10. How do I prevent the quesadillas from being too greasy?
    Use a small amount of oil and cook on medium heat to ensure the quesadillas crisp up without excess oil.

Conclusion

Spinach and Feta Quesadillas are a delicious, savory twist on the classic quesadilla, featuring a flavorful filling of sautéed spinach, creamy feta cheese, and a few other tasty ingredients. The spinach is lightly sautéed with garlic and olive oil to enhance its flavor, then combined with crumbled feta cheese, which adds a tangy, salty element that pairs beautifully with the earthy spinach.

The mixture is spread between two flour tortillas, and the quesadilla is cooked on a hot skillet until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, while the cheese inside melts into a gooey, flavorful filling. You can also add a sprinkle of oregano, basil, or even a touch of lemon zest for extra flavor. These quesadillas are great as a quick lunch, a snack, or even a light dinner. For extra freshness, you can serve them with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream. They’re a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with a crispy exterior and a warm, melty interior.

I can’t wait to see how your Spinach and Feta Quesadillas turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your tasty creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!