Introduction
The Mediterranean diet is celebrated for its rich flavors and health benefits, and what better way to incorporate these into your meals than with a delightful and easy-to-make Mediterranean veggie quesadilla? This dish is perfect for those busy weekday dinners or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Best of all, it’s made even simpler with the use of an air fryer, ensuring a crispy and delicious result every time.
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 200g feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 red onion, finely sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons black olives, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Before you begin, ensure all your veggies are washed and prepped. Slice your zucchini, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, dice the bell pepper, and finely slice the red onion.
- Cook the veggies: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the red onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the bell pepper and zucchini, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until they are tender. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
- Assemble the quesadillas: Lay out a tortilla and sprinkle half of it with the cooked veggies, sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
- Preheat and cook in the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Place the quesadillas in the air fryer basket and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the tortillas are golden and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Once done, remove the quesadillas from the air fryer and slice them into wedges. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips for Perfect Quesadillas
For a crispier result, lightly brush the outside of the tortillas with olive oil before placing them in the air fryer. Want a bit of heat? Add some chopped jalapeños into the mix or drizzle with a spicy sauce before serving.
Health Benefits
The Mediterranean veggie quesadillas are packed full of nutrients. Feta cheese provides a great source of calcium and protein, while sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants. The mix of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers not only adds flavor but also supplies a good dose of dietary fiber.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air frying allows you to enjoy traditionally fried foods with less oil, making your meals generally healthier. It’s also quicker than many conventional cooking methods and doesn't compromise on taste or texture.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean veggie quesadillas are an excellent addition to your meal rotation. They’re simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you're an air fryer aficionado or new to this kitchen gadget, this recipe is a must-try for its ease and delectable results.