Hearty Vegan Black Bean Quesadillas

These delightful vegan quesadillas are loaded with savory refried black beans, colorful bell peppers, and gooey vegan cheese, all nestled between crispy whole wheat tortillas. Served with a side of fresh salsa, they make for a satisfying and quick plant-based meal.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Total Time: 35 min
Servings: 4
MexicanVegetarianPescatarianShellfish-FreeFish-FreeSesame-Free

Ingredients

  • 4 piece Whole wheat tortillas (8-inch diameter)
  • 1.5 cups Refried black beans (vegan variety)
  • 1 piece Bell peppers (any color, minced)
  • 0.25 cup Red onion (finely minced)
  • 1 cup Vegan shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tsp Chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp Cumin
  • to taste to taste Salt
  • to taste to taste Black pepper
  • 1 cup Salsa (for serving)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish (optional))

Instructions

  1. 1.

    Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the minced bell peppers and red onion, sautéing until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

    Time: 7 min
  2. 2.

    Add the minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.

    Time: 1 min
  3. 3.

    Stir in the refried black beans, mixing well to combine with the vegetables and spices. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

    Time: 3 min
  4. 4.

    Wipe out the skillet (or use a fresh one). Heat 0.5 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Place one whole wheat tortilla in the pan. Spread about 1/4 cup of the black bean mixture over half of the tortilla. Sprinkle generously with about 1/4 cup of vegan shredded cheese.

    Time: 2 min
  5. 5.

    Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You may need to press down gently with a spatula.

    Time: 5 min
  6. 6.

    Remove the cooked quesadilla from the pan and repeat with the remaining tortillas, black bean mixture, and vegan cheese, adding more olive oil as needed (0.5 tbsp per batch).

    Time: 10 min
  7. 7.

    Cut each quesadilla into 2-3 wedges. Serve immediately with salsa on the side and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, if desired.

    Time: 2 min

Tips

  • 💡For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the black bean mixture.
  • 💡Ensure your skillet isn't too hot, or the tortillas will burn before the cheese has a chance to melt.
  • 💡If you like a bit of tang, squeeze a lime wedge over the finished quesadillas before serving.

Recipe from TheCookbook.ai

Created by Crissie