Tasty Thursday

It's time to break out that quesadilla maker and eat something fabulous! This week's recipe is from Quesadillas by the lovely Donna Kelly, and it's not just a plain old tortilla and cheese. Try serving this up at your March Madness party, it'll be a hit! Or maybe even this weekend's Academy Awards party, too.

Pizza Style

8 (9- to 10-inch) flour, wheat, or garlic tortillas

6 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated

1 (6-ounce) can sliced black olives, drained

1/2 cup diced onion

1/2 cup diced green bell pepper

1 (8-ounce) package sliced pepperoni, whole or diced

4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Lay 4 tortillas on the counter and spread about 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese over each. Sprinkle a few olives, 2 tablespoons onion, and 2 tablespoons bell pepper over cheese. Lay pepperoni on top, covering entire surface. Sprinkle another 1/3 cup cheese over top. Cover each with one of the remaining tortillas.

3. Brush a little water on top of each tortilla. Spread 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese in a thin layer over top and press down with a wide spatula, making sure the cheese is pressed into the tortilla. Repeat with each quesadilla.

4. Place quesadillas, Parmesan-crusted side up, onto a wire rack standing on a baking sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, checking frequently so as not to burn. Cut into wedges and serve immediately.

Makes 4 to 6 servings

NOTE: Skip the Parmesan crust and pop quesadillas into the quesadilla maker for an even easier meal!