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Jamón Manchego Arugula Quesadilla

Category: Satisfying Main Courses for Every Occasion

Savor the fusion of Spanish ham and Manchego cheese in a golden quesadilla, with delicate red onion and peppery arugula layered between flour tortillas. Toasted in olive oil until crisp and the cheese melts perfectly, each slice boasts a blend of creamy, salty, and fresh flavors. Served alongside guacamole and fresh tomato salsa, this dish delivers a balanced combination of richness and zest. Perfect for sharing, it makes an elevated snack, appetizer, or easy light meal that highlights the best of Spanish ingredients and simple preparation.

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Loura is a chef and she is standing in front of a table full of fruits and vegetables.
Updated on Wed, 28 May 2025 00:34:47 GMT
A sandwich with lettuce and meat on a wooden table. Save
A sandwich with lettuce and meat on a wooden table. | recipesfoodyummy.com

This Jamón and Manchego quesadilla brings together the bold flavors of Spain for a cozy meal or an impressive starter. With Manchego cheese balancing the salty savor of jamón and the peppery bite of arugula, it is one of those quick dishes that feels both sophisticated and comforting. The best part is that it comes together in minutes and always disappears faster than I expect.

The first time I made this for friends, it was gone before the second batch hit the pan We spent the whole evening swapping stories around the kitchen counter with these crisp golden wedges as the star

Ingredients

  • Large flour tortillas: They create a sturdy crispy base Look for ones that are fresh and soft to avoid cracking when folding
  • Dry-cured ham like Jamón Serrano or prosciutto: brings saltiness and depth Choose thinly sliced for easy layering
  • Manchego cheese: This buttery Spanish cheese perfectly balances the ham Use the aged kind for deeper flavor or a fresher young Manchego for a creamier touch
  • Red onion: adds subtle bite and gorgeous color Choose firm onions for crunch and slice very thin for even cooking
  • Fresh arugula: This green offers a peppery kick Pick leaves that are deep green without yellowing or wilting
  • Olive oil or butter: either works for toasting with a golden finish Use the best quality you have as the flavor shines through
  • Guacamole for dipping: provides cool creaminess Use ripe avocados for smooth texture
  • Tomato salsa: adds brightness and acidity Choose chunky pico de gallo or a classic Spanish salsa for even more regional flair

Step by Step Instructions

Assemble the Quesadilla:
Lay one tortilla flat then layer a generous bed of Manchego making sure to reach the edges Arrange sliced jamón evenly over the cheese followed by the onion and arugula Top with the second tortilla and press it down firmly to ensure the entire surface sticks together
Toast in the Pan:
Warm olive oil or butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat Once hot gently slide in the assembled quesadilla Cook for two to three minutes until the bottom is golden and crisp Use a wide spatula to carefully flip and continue cooking on the other side until the cheese melts and both sides are golden brown
Rest and Slice:
Transfer the cooked quesadilla to a cutting board and let it rest for one minute This helps the cheese set just enough for clean slicing Cut into triangles or wedges with a sharp knife
Plate and Serve:
Arrange the quesadilla slices on your favorite wooden board or platter Place small bowls of guacamole and tomato salsa alongside for everyone to dip as they please
A sandwich cut in half with lettuce and tomato. Save
A sandwich cut in half with lettuce and tomato. | recipesfoodyummy.com

Manchego is my absolute favorite cheese for Spanish-inspired cooking I brought a wedge back from Madrid once and every time I use it in this dish I remember that bustling market The flavors bring back those memories in every melty bite

Storage Tips

Store leftover quesadilla slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat on a dry skillet over medium heat for the best texture Avoid microwaving if possible as it makes the quesadilla soft

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap arugula for baby spinach if you prefer a milder flavor Provolone or Gruyere cheese also melt nicely if Manchego is not available If you cannot find jamón use a good quality prosciutto for similar results

Serving Suggestions

Serve with extra salsa verde or olives for a true Spanish tapas spread This quesadilla also pairs beautifully with a green salad and a dusting of smoked paprika for more depth

A Taste of Spain at Home

This dish is inspired by classic Spanish tapas traditions but with the convenience of a quesadilla It brings together traditional ingredients in a way that feels both comforting and just a little bit adventurous Try using a drizzle of Spanish olive oil before serving for even more authenticity

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you get the quesadilla crispy without burning?

Use medium heat and a small amount of oil or butter, toasting 2–3 minutes per side until both tortillas are golden and crisp.

→ Can I substitute another cheese for Manchego?

Yes, try aged cheddar or a young gouda for a similar melt and flavor profile if Manchego isn't available.

→ What's a good alternative to Jamón Serrano?

Thinly sliced prosciutto works well as a substitute, offering a delicate salty taste and similar texture.

→ How do you prevent the arugula from wilting too much?

Layer arugula under the cheese to provide some protection from direct heat, maintaining its fresh bite.

→ What are the best sides to serve?

Guacamole and chunky tomato salsa add freshness and brighten the flavors, complementing the rich fillings.

Jamón Manchego Arugula Quesadilla

Golden tortillas with Manchego, Spanish ham, and arugula for a vibrant, savory snack or light meal.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cooking Time
10 mins
Total Duration
25 mins
By: Loura

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: Spanish

Portions Yielded: 3 Serving Size (1 large quesadilla, sliced)

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Need

→ Quesadilla

01 2 large flour tortillas
02 85 g dry-cured ham (Jamón Serrano or prosciutto), thinly sliced
03 1 cup Manchego cheese, shredded or thinly sliced
04 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
05 1/2 cup fresh arugula
06 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter, for toasting

→ Accompaniments

07 1/2 cup guacamole
08 1/2 cup fresh tomato salsa (pico de gallo or chunky style)

Steps To Follow

Step 01

On one flour tortilla, distribute Manchego cheese evenly, then arrange dry-cured ham, sliced red onion, and fresh arugula on top.

Step 02

Place the second tortilla over the layered ingredients and press gently to secure.

Step 03

Heat olive oil or butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Transfer the assembled quesadilla to the pan and toast for 2–3 minutes per side, until the cheese is melted and both sides are golden brown.

Step 04

Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and allow to rest for 1 minute. Slice into triangles for serving.

Step 05

Arrange quesadilla slices on a serving board and accompany with small bowls of guacamole and fresh tomato salsa.

Notes and Tips

  1. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
  2. Add thin slices of roasted red pepper for a sweet aromatic touch.
  3. A panini press yields evenly grilled quesadillas with crispier edges.

Required Equipment

  • Nonstick skillet
  • Spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Serving board

Allergy Info

Double-check every ingredient for possible allergens and consult a health professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk (Manchego cheese)
  • Contains gluten (flour tortillas)

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 487
  • Fats: 26 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Proteins: 25 g