Serrano Ham Quesadillas

Basically, a quesadilla is a grilled cheese sandwich made with tortillas. Like any grilled cheese sandwich, a quesadilla tastes even better with a little something extra inside. Try this yummy favorite made with Serrano ham (or any other fine air-cured ham such as prosciutto) and string cheese.

Recipe Ingredients:

8 ounces Serrano ham, prosciutto or other good ham, thinly sliced
8 ounces pulled string cheese or grated Monterey Jack cheese
2 tablespoons minced Serrano chile, or to taste
8 (10-inch) flour tortillas
8 teaspoons butter, or as needed
Salsa for accompaniment (optional)
Guacamole for accompaniment (optional)

Cooking Directions:

1. Divide the ham, cheese and Serrano chile evenly among the 8 flour tortillas. Fold the tortillas in half.
2. In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. (Plan on using 1 teaspoon butter for each quesadilla in the pan.) When it starts to bubble, add as many of the folded tortillas as will fit easily in the pan. Toast for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the cheese melts and the tortilla is crisp.
3. Cut in wedges and serve with salsa and guacamole, if desired.

Makes 8 servings.