Quinoa and Pesto Shrimp Stuffed Pasillas
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on Jan 11, 2016, Updated Aug 26, 2019
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I have always wanted to write and illustrate a children’s scratch-and-sniff book with the scents that remind me of my childhood. But for some reason I don’t think the aromas that brought me joy, will appeal to kids today.
One of the scents that remind me of my childhood is the warm smoky smell of roasted chile. My grandma roasted chile frequently and I have always loved that smell. When I smell chile roasting and hear it popping and hissing, its as-if I can see my grandma cooking in her kitchen. My grandma passed away in 2004, but the memories of her will always live in my heart.
These roasted peppers are filled with healthy red quinoa and pesto shrimp making this an elegant looking meal that is actually quick and simple to make yet bursting with flavor. This would be a tasty and very healthy Friday night meat-free dinner during Lent.
More Chile Relleno Recipes
- Chiles Rellenos (Chiles Rellenos Capeados)
- Chiles Rellenos de Camarones y Queso
- Chicken Chiles Rellenos
- Chiles Rellenos de Carne Molida
- Chiles Rellenos en Nogada
- Chiles Rellenos de Picadillo
Quinoa and Pesto Shrimp Stuffed Pasillas
Ingredients
- 4 pasilla chiles
- 1 pound medium shrimp, thawed, frozen uncooked peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup store bought or homemade pesto
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup cooked red quinoa
- 1/2 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Roasting Chile Peppers:
- Preheat broiler.
- Select firm, meaty peppers without wrinkles. Rinse thoroughly to remove dust particles.
- Place peppers evenly in a single layer on a foil-lined cookie sheet. Pierce each chile with a knife.
- Place under broiler. Watch them closely as the skin will blister and turn black within minutes. Turn the peppers after 3 to 5 minutes to blister all sides evenly. When done, the pepper skins should be evenly blistered and mostly black.
- Place roasted peppers in a plastic bag, cover with a wet kitchen towel and when cool, peel off blackened skin.
- Using a small sharp knife, carefully slit roasted chiles open along one side. Remove seeds, leaving stems attached. Set aside to fill later.
Prepare the filling:
- Pat shrimp dry using paper towels. Add olive oil and butter to a non-stick or cast iron skillet set to medium high heat. After the butter has melted, add shrimp. Cook until shrimp is thoroughly cooked, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add pesto and red pepper flakes and toss until combined and set aside.
Assemble:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Stuff each pasilla chile with cooked quinoa, shrimp mixture, and top with shredded cheese.
- Place stuffed pasillas on a baking sheet or skillet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until cheese is completely melted and slightly golden brown on top.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions, if using.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I bet your grandma was a great cook. These stuffed chiles look incredible! Plus they look like a healthy alternative to a pasta or tortilla dish. Can’t wait to try them!
Linda, Yes she was! Thank you.