Smoky Corn Quesadillas

Serves 2

by Jessica Bard
from Fine Cooking
Issue 118
Last Edit Date: 8/6/2012 12:23:24 PM

There’s no need to precook the corn kernels for these simple, satisfying quesadillas. As long as you use fresh corn, the raw kernels will lend a bit of juicy sweetness and a crisp crunch. The smoky flavor comes from smoked paprika.

more about:

1/4 cup fresh corn kernels (from half a medium ear)
1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack
2 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
Kosher salt
2 7- to 8-inch flour tortillas
2 tsp. vegetable oil
Lime wedges and sour cream, for serving

In a medium bowl, combine the corn, Monterey Jack, cilantro, paprika, and 1/8 tsp. salt. Divide the mixture between the tortillas, scattering it over half of each; fold the tortillas in half.

Heat the oil in a heavy-duty 10-inch skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the quesadillas and cook until browned and crisp on the bottom, about 1 minute. Flip and continue to cook until browned and crisp on the other side, 1 minute more. Let cool slightly, cut into wedges, and serve with lime wedges and sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the quesadillas with Black Bean Salad with Mango, Citrus & Crunchy Jicama on the side.

nutrition information (per serving):
Calories (kcal): 320; Fat (g): 17; Fat Calories (kcal): 150; Saturated Fat (g): 7; Protein (g): 12; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 6; Carbohydrates (g): 32; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 3; Sodium (mg): 460; Cholesterol (mg): 25; Fiber (g): 2;

Photo: Scott Phillips

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by PraisesForBraises, 10/29/2012This was an easy recipe to whip up in a hurry, and it got great reviews. I wanted more zip, so I used pepper jack cheese. I pulled the quesadillas together and brought them to a friend's house to cook them. I used frozen corn kernels (thawed and blotted dry in paper towels) and it turned out just fine. The smokiness of the paprika was lovely. I might try chipotle chili powder next time for more heat.

by srayzor, 7/15/2012Super delicious! I used Pepper Jack cheese instead of plain Monterey Jack and it was excellent. I'm sure that the serving size is such because of nutritional guidelines, but I ended up having to double the recipe because one tortilla folded in half each was not enough for a meal. Definitely double the recipe if you're hungry! :)