Vegetarian Quesadilla – With Black beans

Vegetarian Quesadilla - with Black beans
Vegetarian Quesadilla is our favorite weekday dinner – easy to prepare, tasty and healthy. Quesadilla is a Mexican dish made of Tortilla, variety of cheeses, black beans, grilled vegetables with some seasonings. The fillings can vary widely based on the individual preferences. Traditional Quesadilla recipe calls for a tortilla filled with some proteins, seasonings and cheeses, folded and fried. I have used flour tortilla, but you may use corn or any other type of tortilla. I have used a cheese that is a mixture of Monterey jack and Cheddar. The recipe uses very little oil and avoids over-cooking the ingredients. Hence it retains the nutritional value of all its ingredients. The quesadilla not only tastes fresh but also very fragrant due to the Mexican spices used. Leftovers can be stored in refrigerator and reheated in an oven or grill. The Guacamole dip with fresh avocados is a perfect complement to this dish. Please click this link to access my recipe for Guacamole. We can also serve Quesadilla with salsa, guacamole and/or sour cream. I hope you will find this recipe helpful and tasty.
Cooking Method ,
Cuisine ,
Courses , , ,
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Cook Time: 60 min
Servings 5
Description

Quesadilla (Vegetarian) is a Mexican dish made with Tacos, beans, vegetables and seasonings. The recipe needs very little preparation and ideal for a weekday meal for entire family. This is a very healthy meal that is also very satisfying and filling.

Ingredients
    Vegetables, Tortilla and Cheeses
  • 3 cans Black beans (15 Oz / 425gms each)
  • 10 Medium sized flour tortillas
  • 2 cups Grated cheese ( Monterey jack and cheddar combination)
  • 1 Red onion (Diced ( you can use white onion also) Medium size)
  • 2 Roma tomatoes (Seeded and Diced - Drain the juice)
  • 2 Jalapenos (Seeded and minced)
  • 1 cup Corn (Fresh or frozen (Thaw before use))
  • 1 cup Multi-colored bell peppers (Diced)
  • 1 cup Zucchini (Chopped)
  • 1/2 cup Cilantro (Chopped)
  • 3 tablespoons Cooking Oil
    • Spices and seasonings
  • 2 teaspoons Mexican seasoning (See notes for substitute if you don't have one)
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
Instructions
  1. Section 1 : Prepare filling for Quesadilla
    1. Heat Oil in a nonstick frying pan on medium heat for 2-3 minutes
    2. When the oil has heated, add the onion.
    3. Sauté the onion until they become semi transparent and slightly brownish
    4. Add corn and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
    5. Add the rest of vegetables
    6. Increase the heat to high and continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes.
    7. Turning up the heat allows vegetables to lock in their moisture and caramelize quicker and helps to retain their bright color and texture.
    8. Add the black beans and mix with the veggies
    9. Change the heat to lowest setting and Add the Mexican seasoning, paprika, salt and pepper
    10. Mix thoroughly until the veggies and spices are blended well. Check for taste and add salt / spices if needed.
    11. Remove from the heat and Add chopped cilantro.
  2. Section 2 : Assembling the Quesadilla
    1. Heat a non-stick griddle for couple of minutes on medium heat
    2. Spread a thin layer of oil ( or spray) and heat a tortilla on both sides until it has softened.
    3. Lower the heat
    4. Spread a thin layer of the black bean mixture on half side of the tortilla
    5. Add a thin layer of cheese on the black bean mixture
    6. Fold the tortilla over the section which has filling
    7. Use a plate or heavy covering to press the tortilla
    8. Increase the heat to medium and roast the tortilla on each side for about 1-2 minutes
    9. Spray or spread a thin layer of oil on each side. This will help in getting a crispy texture.
    10. Once the tortilla has turned light golden brown and crispy, remove from the pan.
  3. Section 3 : Serving the Quesadilla
    1. Cut the quesadilla into half
    2. Serve with Guacamole and sour cream
Notes
  1. Use fresh guacamole and sour cream as accompaniments as they will enhance the taste and make it a complete dish.
  2. In case you don’t find the Mexican seasonings, you can use a combination of spices like cumin powder, chili powder, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. I have also tried adding tomato ketchup to the black bean mixture and it brings out a nice, sweeter taste.
Keywords: Tortilla, Quesadillas, Mexican,Vegeterian, Spicy
Read it online: https://www.mellowmasala.com/recipe/vegetarian-quesadilla/
Vinay Mummigatti

I love traveling, cooking, and reading. This blog is a reflection of my passion for cooking. Food is a representation of culture and I have tried to assimilate foods from different cultures across the world. I am an Indian by birth who moved to the USA 20 years back. I hope my recipes and articles bring new experiences and joy to the readers. Please share your comments and feedback.