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Squash Blossom Cheeseadilla

These squash blossom cheeseadillas offer a sophisticated and gluten-free twist on a traditional snack. By using crisp Parmigiano-Reggiano as the base instead of a tortilla, you create a lacy, golden crust that perfectly complements the delicate flavour of the summer blooms. The addition of a sharp balsamic vinaigrette and fresh basil brings a brightness that cuts through the rich, savoury notes of the toasted cheese.

This elegant vegetarian dish works beautifully as a light starter for a garden lunch or as a unique canapé for summer entertaining. While squash blossoms are often deep-fried, this pan-seared method is simpler and highlights the natural beauty of the flower. Serve them immediately while the cheese is at its crispest, perhaps with a dollop of cool Greek yoghurt to balance the saltiness.

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Ingredients for Squash Blossom Cheeseadilla

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 110g Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated (about 1 cup)

  • 12 squash blossoms, cleaned

  • Basil leaves

  • Maldon salt

  • Greek yoghurt or Mexican crema (optional)

Combine the balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil, whisking to combine. Set aside; whisk again before serving.

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. For each cheeseadilla, place 2 packed tablespoons of Parmesan in the pan and use the back of the spoon to spread the cheese into a 3-inch round. Cook until the cheese is melted, then press a squash blossom on top of each one and cook until the cheese is browned and crisp, about 4 minutes. Carefully pry the cheeseadillas off the skillet with a spatula and flip them, then cook for 30 seconds or so, to brown the blossoms lightly. Transfer to a serving plate and repeat to make more cheeseadillas.

Just before serving, drizzle the cheeseadillas with the balsamic dressing. Garnish with basil leaves and a couple of flakes of Maldon salt, and a few dollops of yoghurt, if using.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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