Bean Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa

Some weeks we are very organized about the children's lunches, shopping especially for them on the weekend.  And some weekends are chaotic and we don't get our planning done.  Quesadillas are one of those lunches that we usually can pull together with what we have on hand.  We almost always have a few tortillas in the refrigerator or freezer and a can of refried beans in the cupboard.  With those and a bit of child-friendly cheese such as cheddar, we can put together quesadillas for lunch in a few minutes.

Although we often send quesadillas just as they are or with a bit of prepared salsa, the other morning I had a bit of extra time and an abundance of fresh tomatoes, so I made a quick tomato and avocado salsa.  The salsa added a bit of freshness to their lunch boxes, and with a piece of fruit and a bottle of water, the lunches were on their way. 

You could also use this recipe to make a quick meal, or hold the quesadillas and double or triple the salsa recipe to serve with chips at a party.

Bean Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa

Serves 3 children
15 minutes preparation time
4-6 minutes cooking time

3 large flour tortillas
6 tablespoons shredded cheddar, or other mild cheese
1/2 can vegetarian refried pinto or black beans
1/2 avocado, diced
1 medium tomato, diced
1 tablespoon chopped white onion
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
pinch or two of salt
1 teaspoon chopped cilantro (optional)

Lay the tortillas flat and spread approximately 2 tablespoons of beans on half of each.  Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese over each half, too, and fold the tortilla in half.  Heat a large frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the folded quesadillas until they are lightly browned and the cheese has melted, approximately 2 or 3 minutes on each side.  Set them aside.  When they have cooled to room temperature, cut each quesadilla into 3 or 4 wedges.

To make the salsa, toss the diced tomato, onion, and avocado in a bowl with the lime juice, salt, and cilantro, if you are using it.  Taste and adjust the seasoning, lime juice, or cilantro to suit your taste.

Assemble the quesadilla wedges and salsa in separate containers, and pop them into the lunch boxes.

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Comments

[DC]

Hi there...love your site, love your pics, love your recipes...KEEP IT UP!!!

[Margy O'Herron]

Thanks for the encouragement, Dave. If you all keep reading, I'll keep posting!

[Andrea]

I just wish the lunches I pack didn't all (or mostly) come back. Quesadillas are on the "acceptable" list and we haven't tried them yet....it's worth a shot.