Kids Quesadilla from Costa Vida features melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese nestled between warm, toasted flour tortillas, delivering a cheesy, crispy delight perfect for young appetites.
Equipments
- Flour tortillas
- Cheddar cheese
- Monterey Jack cheese
- Grill or panini press
- Griddle or flat-top grill
- Spatula
- Cheese grater (optional, if shredding cheese)
- Knife or pizza cutter
- Cutting board
- Ladle or spoon (optional, for scooping cheese)
- Tongs (optional)
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas
- Cheddar cheese
- Monterey Jack cheese
- Flour tortillas
- Cheddar cheese
- Monterey Jack cheese
Ensure you use freshly shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a smoother melt and better texture in your quesadilla. Warm your flour tortillas slightly before grilling to prevent tearing and achieve a crispier finish. Using a grill or panini press evenly heats the quesadilla, enhancing the cheese's gooey consistency. You can substitute with pre-shredded cheese if time is limited, but freshly grated cheese often results in better flavor and meltability. Your Kids Quesadilla from Costa Vida copycat menu will closely resemble the original by focusing on these ingredient details and cooking techniques.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the grill, panini press, or griddle to medium heat.
- Place one flour tortilla on the cutting board.
- Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the tortilla.
- Top with a second flour tortilla.
- Transfer the assembled quesadilla to the grill, panini press, or griddle.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden and crispy.
- Flip the quesadilla with a spatula and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from heat and place on the cutting board.
- Cut the quesadilla into wedges using a knife or pizza cutter.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Kids Quesadilla from Costa Vida copycat menu combines melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses inside warm, toasted flour tortillas, creating a simple yet satisfying meal for children. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, you can substitute it with mozzarella or a mild white cheese for a similar creamy texture. When toasting the quesadilla, a griddle or flat-top grill works best to ensure even heating and a crispy outside, but a skillet will also do in a pinch. You can shred pre-packaged cheese if you lack a cheese grater, making prep quicker. Your quesadilla will be easiest to cut neatly using a pizza cutter or sharp knife on a stable cutting board.
Tips
Ensure your grill or griddle is preheated to medium to achieve the perfect crispy texture without burning the tortillas. Using evenly shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese helps them melt consistently between the tortillas. When flipping, use a wide spatula to prevent the quesadilla from breaking apart and to keep the cheese inside. Let the quesadilla rest for a minute after cooking before cutting to avoid cheese spilling out and ensure cleaner wedges.
Nutritions
Kids Quesadilla from Costa Vida provides a good source of calcium and protein thanks to the melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. The flour tortillas contribute carbohydrates, offering energy to support active young bodies. The combination of cheese and tortillas supplies essential fats and nutrients needed for growth. You can enjoy this cheesy, crispy snack while keeping an eye on portion size to maintain balanced nutrition.
Storage
To preserve your Kids Quesadilla from Costa Vida, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to retain moisture and prevent staleness. Store it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator, where it can remain fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat the quesadilla on a grill or panini press to restore its crispy texture and melted cheese before serving again.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap out cheddar and Monterey Jack for mozzarella and provolone to create a milder, creamier cheese blend. Consider using whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added fiber and a subtle flavor twist. Try adding finely diced cooked chicken or black beans inside before grilling to boost protein content. Cooking the quesadilla in a non-stick skillet with a small amount of butter instead of a grill can enhance crispiness and flavor.
Allergies
Kids Quesadilla from Costa Vida contains dairy ingredients such as cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The flour tortillas include wheat, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or wheat allergies. If you have any food allergies, it's important to verify ingredient information before enjoying this cheesy dish.
Why this recipe?
The Kids Quesadilla menu from Costa Vida restaurant is loved for its perfectly grilled tortillas filled with melted cheese and tender chicken, making it a flavorful yet kid-friendly option. The dish offers a balanced combination of protein and carbs, appealing to both children and parents seeking a wholesome meal. Its simplicity and delicious taste make it a great candidate to replicate at home, allowing you to customize ingredients to suit your child's preferences and dietary needs. Trying to make a copycat version ensures you can enjoy the same satisfying flavors with fresh, quality ingredients right in your kitchen.