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Favorite Vegetarian Meals for Kids

We have a lot of favorite vegetarian meals, but these bean and cheese quesadillas rank at the very top. They're easy, affordable, and endlessly customizable.
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 265kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 small tortillas (corn or flour)
  • cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • cup beans (pinto or black beans; or one 14-ounce can)
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • Salsa, sour cream, hot sauce, as desired for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Place the tortillas on a clean work surface.
  • Sprinkle some cheese on one half, then beans, then cheese. Use about 1/4 each on each tortilla. (It doesn't have to be precise though!) Sprinkle with cumin,.
  • Warm a skillet over medium heat. Grease lightly with a little neutral oil like canola or nonstick spray. If using oil, wipe it with a paper towel so there's a very thin coating.
  • Place two tortillas with fillings on the skillet. After about a minute, fold over the empty side to make a half moon shape. Press down. Add another tortilla or two as you can fit them and repeat to make half moon shapes.
  • Let each quesadilla cook for 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  • Serve warm with optional dippers.

Notes

  • Try my homemade Pinto Beans or Slow Cooker Black Beans.
  • If using canned beans, drain and rinse first for best flavor, then sprinkle with a little cumin and chili powder.
  • Use tortillas labeled "soft" to avoid cracks or breaks.
  • Add cooked diced chicken or steak, chopped baby spinach or kale, or corn if desired.
  • Cut into wedges with kitchen scissors for younger eaters.
  • Mash the beans and spread on just a little for one year olds if that's easier for them to chew.
  • See the post above for additional vegetarian meal ideas.

Nutrition

Serving: 1quesadilla | Calories: 265kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 382mg | Potassium: 260mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 283IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 255mg | Iron: 2mg