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In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of vegetarian recipes, as more people seek to adopt healthier diets and embrace plant-based eating. The allure of vibrant flavors, coupled with the numerous health benefits of vegetables, has prompted cooks of all skill levels to experiment with meatless meals. Among these delightful dishes, Spiced Pumpkin and Black Bean Quesadillas stand out as a delicious and nutritious option that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Pumpkin & Black Bean Quesadillas

Discover the deliciousness of Spiced Pumpkin and Black Bean Quesadillas, a satisfying vegetarian dish that's easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe showcases the earthy sweetness of pumpkin combined with the hearty texture of black beans, creating a nutritious filling rich in fiber and protein. With a blend of spices and melted cheese, these quesadillas offer a savory experience that's both comforting and healthy, making them perfect for any meal or snack. Enjoy them with fresh garnishes or your favorite dips for an extra burst of flavor!

Ingredients
  

1 cup pumpkin puree (either canned or homemade)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup shredded cheese (choose cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for extra flavor)

1 small red onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

4 large flour tortillas

2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)

Salsa or hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, drained black beans, shredded cheese, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture together until it is well blended and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

    Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place it over medium heat. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers slightly, indicating it's ready for cooking.

      Assemble the Quesadillas: Take one tortilla and place it in the heated skillet. Evenly spread half of the pumpkin and black bean filling over one half of the tortilla. Fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the underside is golden brown and slightly crispy.

        Flip and Cook: Carefully use a spatula to flip the quesadilla over. If the pan appears dry, add a little more olive oil. Cook the second side for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until it is browned and the cheese inside has melted beautifully. Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and keep it warm by placing it on a plate covered with a kitchen towel. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

          Slice and Serve: Once all quesadillas are cooked, cut each into wedges for easy serving. Arrange them on a platter, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve warm alongside optional sour cream, Greek yogurt, salsa, or hot sauce for a delightful finishing touch.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

              15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings