Go Back

Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Salsa Quesadillas with Pina Colada Guacamole

This recipe assembles flavorful jerk shrimp and sweet pineapple salsa between two tortillas with Monterey Jack cheese, creating a vibrant quesadilla. It's elevated by optional pina colada guacamole and crema, offering a delightful balance of spicy, sweet, and creamy notes. Ideal for a quick, tropical-inspired meal.
Servings: 1 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 754.8

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 6-8 inch tortillas
  • 1/2 cup monterey jack cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup grilled jerk shrimp
  • 1/2 cup grilled pineapple salsa
  • 1/2 cup pina colada guacamole optional
  • 1/4 cup pina colada crema optional

Equipment

  • 1 Non-stick Skillet or Griddle
  • 1 Spatula
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Chef's Knife or pizza cutter for slicing

Method
 

  1. Gather all prepared ingredients: tortillas, shredded cheese, grilled jerk shrimp, grilled pineapple salsa, and optional guacamole/crema.
  2. Lightly grease a non-stick skillet or griddle and preheat over medium heat.
  3. Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface or cutting board.
  4. Evenly sprinkle half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the tortilla.
  5. Distribute half of the grilled jerk shrimp and grilled pineapple salsa over the cheese layer.
  6. Top with the remaining half of the shredded cheese, then place the second tortilla on top.
  7. Carefully transfer the assembled quesadilla to the preheated skillet. Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is thoroughly melted.
  8. Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a minute.
  9. Slice the quesadilla into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  10. Serve immediately, accompanied by the optional pina colada guacamole and crema.

Notes

Achieve a perfectly golden-brown quesadilla by cooking over medium heat, allowing the cheese to melt fully and the tortilla to crisp without burning. If the pre-grilled components (shrimp, salsa) are cold, gently warm them before assembly to ensure even heating and prevent a cold center. For an extra layer of flavor and freshness, a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished quesadilla or directly into the guacamole will brighten the overall profile. Don't overload the tortillas; a thin, even layer of fillings ensures structural integrity and optimal melting. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm, spicy shrimp with cool, sweet salsa and creamy guacamole.