California Dreamin' Quesadillas

In 'Quesadillas' by Donna Kelly

• Ready In: 34 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 8  slices bacon, frozen
• 8 (10 inch)  flour tortillas (white, wheat, spinach)
• 8  ounces monterey jack pepper cheese, grated
• 2  large  ripe avocados, peeled and sliced
• 1  tablespoon lemon juice
• 8 -10  dried figs or 8 -10  apricots, diced
• 1  tablespoon  smoked paprika

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°.
2. Let bacon thaw slightly then dice.
3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake 10-12 minutes, or until bacon is browned and crisp.
4. Remove from oven and blot dry on paper towels.
5. Lay 4 tortillas on the counter and spread 1/3 cup cheese over each.
6. Sprinkle 1/4 cup bacon over cheese.
7. Toss avocado slices in lemon juice, then spread evenly over bacon, followed by the dried fruit.
8. Sprinkle another 1/3 cup cheese over top and a little smoked paprika.
9. Slide one of the cheese-covered tortillas onto a 10-inch skillet over medium heat.
10. Place one of the remaining tortillas on top.
11. Press down with a wide spatula to remove any air pockets.
12. Cover and cook 1-2 minutes, checking frequently, until bottom tortilla is crisp and browned.
13. Turn over, cover, and cook 1-2 minutes more, or until lightly browned.
14. Repeat this process for remaining quesadillas.
15. Cut into wedges and serve immediately.