Spinach and Feta Quesadillas

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying, and nutritious meal with a Mediterranean twist, these Spinach and Feta Quesadillas are the answer. Combining the classic flavors of spinach and tangy feta cheese with a crispy, golden tortilla, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a snack. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also delivers a hearty dose of greens while keeping things deliciously cheesy. The best part? These quesadillas are incredibly versatile—you can add your favorite ingredients or customize them to fit dietary preferences. Ready to add a delicious new twist to your quesadilla repertoire? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Spinach and Feta Quesadillas offer a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease. The savory combination of fresh spinach and salty feta creates a delightful filling that’s both rich and refreshing. The tortillas provide a satisfying crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy, cheesy filling. This recipe is a fantastic option for a quick, wholesome meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re making a meal for one or serving a crowd, these quesadillas are sure to impress. Plus, they’re highly customizable—swap in different cheeses, add proteins, or toss in more veggies to suit your tastes. Best of all, they’re ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 quesadilla

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

To make these delicious Spinach and Feta Quesadillas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 flour tortillas (8-inch size)
• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking tortillas)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (for serving)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach mixture cool slightly.
3. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with the crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay four tortillas on a flat surface. Evenly distribute the spinach and feta mixture over each tortilla, spreading it out to cover the surface. Place another tortilla on top of each to create a quesadilla sandwich.
5. Cook the Quesadillas: Heat the remaining olive oil and butter in a clean skillet over medium heat. Carefully place one quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining quesadillas.
6. Slice and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board and slice into wedges. Serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt and a wedge of lemon for squeezing over the top.

Ingredient Background

Spinach

Spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Its mild flavor and tender texture make it a perfect complement to the salty, creamy feta cheese in this recipe. Fresh spinach is recommended, but frozen spinach can also be used—just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

Feta Cheese

Feta cheese, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, is known for its crumbly texture and tangy flavor. Made from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk, feta adds a rich, salty note to the quesadillas that pairs beautifully with the mildness of the spinach.

Tortillas

Flour tortillas are used in this recipe for their soft, pliable texture and their ability to crisp up nicely when cooked. You can also use whole wheat tortillas or gluten-free options to suit dietary needs.

Mozzarella Cheese

Shredded mozzarella is added for its gooey, melty quality. It helps bind the filling together and adds a creamy contrast to the crumbly feta.

Greek Yogurt

Serving the quesadillas with plain Greek yogurt adds a cool, creamy element that complements the warm, cheesy filling. It’s a lighter alternative to sour cream and enhances the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.

Technique Tips

• Preventing Soggy Quesadillas: Ensure the spinach is cooked until all the moisture has evaporated to prevent soggy quesadillas. You can also press down gently on the tortillas with a spatula while cooking to help achieve a crispy exterior.
• Evenly Distribute the Filling: Spread the filling evenly across the tortilla, but leave a small border around the edges to prevent it from spilling out during cooking.
• Keep the Heat Moderate: Cooking the quesadillas over medium heat ensures the tortillas get crispy without burning while allowing enough time for the cheese to melt.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

For a more upscale presentation, consider serving these quesadillas as a part of a mezze platter. Arrange sliced quesadilla wedges on a large platter alongside other Mediterranean appetizers like hummus, tzatziki, olives, and pita bread. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an added touch of freshness.

Additional Tips for Success

• Make It Ahead: The spinach and feta filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and cook the quesadillas when ready to serve for a quick meal.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the filling by adding roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for extra flavor. For added protein, cooked chicken or shrimp can be incorporated.
• Use a Panini Press: For an even easier cooking process, use a panini press to cook the quesadillas evenly on both sides without flipping.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace the feta and mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives, and use a dairy-free yogurt for serving.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the flour tortillas for low-carb tortillas or large lettuce leaves to create a low-carb wrap.
• Breakfast Quesadilla: Add scrambled eggs and chopped tomatoes to the filling for a breakfast-friendly version.
• Herbed Quesadilla: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil to the spinach mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Freezing and Storage

To store leftover quesadillas, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap each quesadilla individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

For a healthier twist, use whole wheat tortillas to increase the fiber content. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for reduced-fat cheese to lower the fat content. Incorporating more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can boost the nutritional value and add variety to the filling.

Serving Suggestions for Events

These Spinach and Feta Quesadillas are a great option for casual gatherings, parties, or even brunch. Serve them as finger food, cut into smaller wedges, or pair them with a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a themed Mediterranean dinner, they can be served alongside dishes like Greek salad, roasted lamb, or stuffed grape leaves.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or non-stick frying pan
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess moisture before using it to avoid making the quesadillas soggy.

What other cheeses can I use?

You can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, or even a sharp cheddar. Each cheese will add its unique flavor and texture to the quesadillas.

How can I make these gluten-free?

To make the quesadillas gluten-free, simply use gluten-free tortillas. Many grocery stores carry a variety of gluten-free options.

Can I add meat to the quesadillas?

Yes! Cooked chicken, ground turkey, or even crumbled sausage would be great additions to this dish. Add the meat to the spinach mixture before assembling the quesadillas.

What dipping sauces go well with these quesadillas?

In addition to Greek yogurt, you can serve these quesadillas with tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy tomato salsa for added flavor.

How do I reheat the quesadillas without making them soggy?

Reheat the quesadillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This will help maintain their crispy texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the quesadillas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them when ready to serve. This is a great option for meal prep or when hosting guests.

What can I serve alongside these quesadillas for a complete meal?

These quesadillas pair well with a simple green salad, a bowl of soup, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Conclusion

Spinach and Feta Quesadillas are a delicious and versatile meal option that combines the best of Mediterranean flavors with the comfort of a classic quesadilla. They’re quick to prepare, full of nutritious ingredients, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a tasty appetizer, or a satisfying lunch, these quesadillas fit the bill. Try them out, and don’t be afraid to experiment with the filling to make them your own. Enjoy the irresistible combination of crispy tortillas and creamy, cheesy filling in every bite!

Print