ATLANTA — Never underestimate the power of a good condiment, as Patty Allen of Marietta demonstrates with her interpretation of a chicken quesadilla. Allen writes: "This dish is a wonderful combination of traditional quesadilla ingredients with the surprise of a sweet-spicy mango peach salsa. The salsa that I use (Garden Fresh Gourmet All Natural Mango Peach Mild Salsa) takes these tacos from ordinary to extraordinary. It's a blend of tomatoes, onions, green peppers, pineapple, peaches, mango, jalapeños, lime juice and cilantro. Any peach salsa would probably work well, but I love the extra flavors in this one."
Allen adds a healthful spin by using a whole-wheat tortilla, heart-healthy black beans and lean chicken breast. To cut the calories, choose reduced-fat cheese.
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I used the generic Whole Foods brand of mango peach salsa and was very satisfied with the interplay of flavors. Other unexpected salsa varieties would also enliven the quesadilla.
TONIGHT'S SOLUTION
Mango Peach, Chicken and Bean Quesadilla
TO MAKE THE MEAL
Guacamole and fruit salad
Mango Peach, Chicken and Bean Quesadilla
1 serving
1 (8-inch) whole-wheat soft tortilla
1/3 cup shredded cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend
1/2 cup cooked and shredded skinless chicken breast
1/4 cup black beans, rinsed, drained and patted dry
1/4 cup mango peach salsa
Coat a skillet with cooking spray and place over medium-high heat. Place tortilla on skillet and distribute cheese evenly on half the tortilla. On top of cheese, layer chicken, black beans and salsa. Fold empty side of tortilla over the filled side. Reduce heat to medium-low, allowing cheese to melt and other ingredients to warm through. Remove to plate.
Per serving: 429 calories (percent of calories from fat, 33), 31 grams protein, 41 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams fiber, 16 grams fat (9 grams saturated), 72 milligrams cholesterol, 932 milligrams sodium.
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