Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza (Squash Blossom Quesadillas)

If you’ve ever tasted cheesy, stuffed, and fried squash blossoms, then you know how dreamy they can be—but let’s be real, they’re also tedious to make. This easy recipe for Squash Blossom Quesadillas, or Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza, skips the whole stuffing and frying routine for something just as flavorful with a fraction of the work.

These vegetarian quesadillas are a celebration of summer, simple ingredients, and nostalgic comfort. It’s the kind of dish that proves something quick can also feel special.

What are Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza?

Quesadillas de flor de calabaza are a traditional Mexican dish made by folding squash blossoms and melty cheese inside a warm tortilla. They’re especially popular in central and southern Mexico, like in Oaxaca, where flor de calabaza is used in soups, tamales, and of course—quesadillas!

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Ingredients & Substitutions

You only need a few ingredients to make these delicious quesadillas:

• Squash blossoms (flor de calabaza): Look for them in Latin markets, farmers markets, or your backyard garden.
• Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but you can use flour tortillas if that’s what you prefer.
• Cheese: I prefer melty Oaxaca cheese for its traditional flavor and perfect stretch, but feel free to use any melty cheese you love. Quesadilla cheese, Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella are all great options that will work beautifully in these quesadillas.
• Olive oil or butter: Just a bit to crisp the tortillas.

Note: The complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions are in the printable recipe card below.

Optional Variations

This recipe has not been tested with all of these substitutions or variations. If you replace or add any ingredients, please let us know how it turned out in the comments below!

• Add sliced sautéed mushrooms, roasted chile peppers, or pickled onions for an earthy twist.
• Swap in store-bought shredded cheese blends for convenience.
• Use mini street taco tortillas to make appetizer-size quesadillas.

How to Make Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza

Step 1: Prepare the squash blossoms.Gently remove the stems, stamen or pistil, and the sepals (the small leafy bits at the base). Shake gently to remove any bugs, but there’s no need to rinse. Watch this video to learn How to Prepare Squash Blossoms (Flor de Calabaza).

Step 2: Warm the tortilla. Heat a bit of olive oil on a comal or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add a tortilla and heat for 30 seconds or until pliable.

Step 3: Add cheese and squash blossoms. Sprinkle the tortilla with shredded cheese and place 1–2 squash blossoms on top.

Step 4: Fold and grill. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve. Serve warm, with salsa or hot sauce.

Serving & Topping Suggestions

• Pair with homemade salsa verde or a spicy chile de árbol salsa.
• A light drizzle of Mexican crema adds a delicious tang.
• Serve with carne asada salad or Mexican grilled street corn for a complete summer meal.

Storage Instructions

Quesadillas de flor de calabaza are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle, but leftovers can be wrapped in foil or an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through.

More quesadilla recipes

Roasted Squash and Portobello Mushroom Quesadillas

Nopal (Cactus) Quesadillas

Carne Asada Spinach Quesadillas

Carne Asada Chayote Quesadillas

If you tried this Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below!