Mediterranean Steak & Cheese Quesadillas
This Mediterranean twist on the classic quesadilla brings together the bold flavors of grilled steak, gooey cheese, and tangy Mediterranean ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, spinach, and feta. Wrapped in a crispy tortilla, it’s an exciting fusion that blends Tex-Mex comfort with the brightness of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s perfect for a hearty lunch, weeknight dinner, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 large quesadillas (serves 4)
Ingredients
For the Steak:
1 lb flank steak or skirt steak
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Quesadillas:
4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
½ cup sliced Kalamata olives
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Optional Toppings/Sides:
Tzatziki sauce
Greek yogurt
Fresh parsley
Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Coat the steak with the marinade and let sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge).
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the steak for 4–5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then thinly slice against the grain.
Step 3: Assemble Quesadillas
Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle half with mozzarella and feta.
Add steak slices, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, spinach, and red onions.
Fold the tortilla over to make a half-moon.
Step 4: Cook Quesadillas
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil.
Cook each quesadilla for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
Remove and let sit for 1–2 minutes before cutting into wedges.
Tips
Steak Cut: Flank or skirt steak is ideal for slicing thin and staying tender.
Marinade Time: Marinating for a few hours deepens the flavor, but even 15 minutes makes a difference.
Cheese Blend: Use both mozzarella (for melt) and feta (for tang) for optimal flavor.
Tortillas: Large burrito-size tortillas make folding and filling easier.
Crispiness Tip: Use a dry skillet with minimal oil for the crispiest texture.
Rest the Steak: Resting prevents juices from leaking and toughening the meat.
Use a Panini Press: For an easy press and melt, try a panini maker.
Variations
Chicken Version: Swap steak for grilled chicken breast.
Vegetarian: Replace steak with grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant.
Spicy: Add chopped pepperoncini or a drizzle of harissa for heat.
Greek-Style: Add diced cucumbers and a dollop of tzatziki inside before folding.
Breakfast Quesadillas: Add scrambled eggs with the steak and cheese for a brunch version.
Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps and make it more like a wrap.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble and refrigerate uncooked quesadillas for up to 24 hours. Cook fresh for best texture.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Yes, wrap cooked quesadillas in foil and freeze. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 375°F until hot and crispy.
Q: What cheese substitutes work well?
A: Try Monterey Jack, provolone, or goat cheese if feta isn’t your favorite.
Q: What dips go best?
A: Tzatziki, hummus, or even a lemon-garlic aioli pair beautifully.
Nutrition (Per Quesadilla, Approximate)
Calories: 520
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Note: Values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Steak & Cheese Quesadillas are the ultimate flavorful mashup—melty, meaty, and zesty with all the savory elements of a great Mediterranean dish packed into a handheld favorite. They’re quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for entertaining. With their flexibility and bold taste, they’re sure to become a staple in your fusion food lineup.