The S. Veggie Quesadilla from Buffalo Exchange features a vibrant medley of sauteed bell peppers, onions, and spinach layered with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses inside a toasted flour tortilla, offering a flavorful and crispy vegetarian delight.
Equipments
- Saute pan
- Spatula
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
- Stove or cooktop
- Plate
- Serving spatula
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 small red onion
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Salt
- Black pepper
Fresh bell peppers and spinach are key to achieving the vibrant flavor and texture in the S. Veggie Quesadilla, so use crisp, high-quality produce for the best results. Opt for freshly shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to ensure optimal melting and creamy consistency. Adjust salt and black pepper to your taste, but avoid oversalting since the cheeses add natural saltiness. Use flour tortillas that are pliable yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing during toasting. Your homemade version of the S. Veggie Quesadilla from Buffalo Exchange copycat menu will deliver a delicious, crispy vegetarian meal that mimics the original's balance of flavors and textures perfectly.
Instructions
- Wash and dry all produce.
- Slice the red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion into thin strips.
- Heat saute pan over medium heat.
- Add olive oil to the pan.
- Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the pan.
- Saute until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add fresh spinach to the pan.
- Saute until spinach is wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
- Season vegetables with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove sauteed vegetables from pan; set aside in mixing bowl.
- Grate cheddar and mozzarella cheeses if not pre-shredded.
- Wipe pan clean, if necessary.
- Place one flour tortilla on plate or cutting board.
- Sprinkle half of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over tortilla.
- Spread half the sauteed vegetable mixture evenly over cheese layer.
- Top with another tortilla.
- Heat pan over medium heat.
- Carefully transfer assembled quesadilla to hot pan.
- Cook until bottom tortilla is golden and cheese starts to melt, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip quesadilla using spatula or tongs; cook other side until golden and cheese is melted, another 2–3 minutes.
- Remove cooked quesadilla from pan and place on cutting board.
- Repeat steps 13–21 for remaining ingredients to make second quesadilla.
- Slice quesadillas into wedges using chef’s knife or serving spatula.
- Serve warm on plate.
Substitution
The S. Veggie Quesadilla from Buffalo Exchange copycat menu can easily be adapted by substituting bell peppers with poblano or Anaheim peppers for a milder or spicier kick. If fresh spinach is unavailable, kale or Swiss chard offers a similar texture and nutritional profile. Use a combination of Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese if cheddar or mozzarella are not accessible, maintaining the creamy meltiness essential to the quesadilla. When toasting the flour tortillas, use a dry skillet instead of oil to achieve a crispy texture without added fat. Your use of a chef's knife and cutting board will be crucial in finely slicing vegetables to ensure even cooking and balanced flavors.
Tips
Make sure to thoroughly dry the produce after washing to prevent excess moisture from making your quesadilla soggy. When sauteing the vegetables, maintain medium heat to soften them without burning and ensure the spinach wilts quickly for optimal texture. Grate the cheeses fresh if possible, as it melts more evenly, enhancing the gooey, creamy filling you desire. Use a spatula or tongs carefully to flip the quesadilla so the tortilla stays intact and crisps up evenly on both sides.
Nutritions
The S. Veggie Quesadilla provides a balanced combination of macronutrients, featuring carbohydrates from the flour tortillas and fiber-rich vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses contribute a significant source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance. Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular function. Your meal delivers important vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C from the colorful vegetables, enhancing immune support and antioxidant benefits.
Storage
To store your veggie quesadilla, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Place the wrapped quesadilla in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a crisp texture or in the microwave for faster warming, but be sure to check that it's heated through evenly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different leafy green flavor and texture. For a protein boost, add black beans or cooked grilled chicken before layering the cheese and vegetables. Swap out cheddar and mozzarella for pepper jack or monterey jack cheese to introduce a spicier or creamier element. Instead of flour tortillas, using whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas can make the dish more nutritious and accommodate dietary preferences.
Allergies
The S. Veggie Quesadilla contains common allergens such as dairy from the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and gluten from the flour tortillas. If you have lactose intolerance or a gluten sensitivity, these ingredients could cause adverse reactions. It's important to check the ingredient labels and consult with the restaurant if you have concerns about cross-contamination or hidden allergens in your meal.
Why this recipe?
The S. Veggie Quesadilla from Buffalo Exchange restaurant is popular for its fresh, vibrant ingredients and perfectly balanced flavors that appeal to both vegetarians and cheese lovers. You'll enjoy the combination of grilled vegetables, melted cheese, and a crispy tortilla that offers a satisfying texture and rich taste. Replicating this dish at home is worthwhile because it allows you to customize the filling while saving money compared to dining out. This copycat recipe delivers an authentic, flavorful experience that matches the quality of the original.