Healthy Quesadillas with Black Beans and Veggies

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These easy healthy quesadillas are packed with gooey cheese, black beans, and crunchy veggies. Done in less than 30 minutes they make a great weeknight meal!

Quesadillas are one of those meals that just about everyone likes. These healthy quesadillas are the best!

Warm, crispy tortillas, melted gooey cheese, and an assortment of toppings make this classic comfort food at its best.

My husband loves Mexican food, and quesadillas are no exception. But the way he used to make quesadillas made me cringe: white tortillas, with just cheese inside, cooked on a skillet with too much oil!

When we first got married, I was determined to make a healthier version of a quesadilla that he would still eat and enjoy.  I’m glad to say that these healthy quesadillas did the trick!

This is the perfect weeknight meal! I hope you and your family enjoy this recipe as much as we do!

Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

• 2 large non-stick skillets
• Spatula
• Wooden Spoon

How To Make Healthy Quesadillas with Black Beans – Step By Step 

Step 1: Heat refried beans over the stove on medium heat. Add taco seasoning to taste and stir until combined.

Step 2: Heat a large pan over medium to medium-low heat, spray with olive oil cooking spray. Add tortilla to the pan.

Step 3: Assemble quesadillas: One layer of beans, one layer of cheese (1/8 cup), a layer of onions & peppers, and another layer of cheese (remaining 1/8 cup).

Step 4: Grill the quesadillas in the pan until both sides are browned and crispy and the cheese has melted. Top with diced tomatoes, 1 Tbsp guac and 2 Tbsp salsa.

How is this quesadilla healthier than other versions?

Regular quesadillas don’t have any fiber, and use way too much oil and cheese causing them to be high in fat. They also rarely include veggies.

By swapping out some of the traditional ingredients I increased the fiber and nutrients, while decreasing the fat and calories.  

• More Fiber: Using a sprouted wheat tortilla instead of a white tortilla added fiber while keeping the great taste. 
• Added Plant Protein: Adding organic refried black beans instead of just cheese added more fiber and protein to this recipe.
• Higher in Nutrients: Including chopped veggies such as the bell peppers, onions and tomatoes increased the nutrient content of this dish.
• Reduced Fat and Calories: Decreasing the amount of cheese and oil reduces the overall fat and calories without losing any flavor!

Will kids enjoy these healthy quesadillas?

This recipe is family-friendly, super easy to make (ready in 30 minutes!) and kid-friendly too. In fact, this is one of Layla and Ayan’s favorite meals! I guarantee that if you make this recipe, you’ll end up with a fiber & protein packed meal that’s absolutely delicious, and is sure to satisfy even the most die-hard quesadilla fans.

Can quesadillas be healthy?

Yes! By simply swapping some of the traditional quesadilla ingredients for healthier ones such as sprouted whole wheat tortillas, and using less oil and cheese, while adding nutrient dense ingredients (like veggies) you can create a quesadilla that is just as delicious, only healthier and more flavorful!

Can I eat a quesadilla on a diet?

Depending on the type of diet you are on you can certainly enjoy quesadillas when they are made with nutrient rich ingredients. 

Gluten Free Diet: If you’re on a gluten free diet swap out the sprouted whole wheat tortilla for gluten free tortilla. All the other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten free.

Vegan: If you’re on a vegan diet eliminate the cheese or use a vegan cheese instead.

What is good to serve with these healthy quesadillas?

By packing these quesadillas with healthy nutrient rich ingredients you want to keep the sides you serve it with just as light and flavorful. Here are some suggestions…

• Salsa: Add some additional salsa if you choose. Salsa is low in calories making it the perfect accompaniment.
• Low Fat Sour Cream: If you think these need a little extra creaminess top with low fat sour cream. 
• Seasoned Corn: You can make a healthy version of elotes, a seasoned corn that pair nicely, and has tons of flavor
• Gazpacho: A low fat low calorie cold tomato soup pairs nicely with the heartier quesadilla. 
• Fresh Guacamole: Mash up some avocados, combine with salt, pepper, lime juice and cilantro. Avocados heave healthy fats and nutrients that are great for this meal. The main thing with guacamole is to watch the portions – 1-2 tbsp per quesadilla is the right amount!

Top Tips for Making the Perfect Healthy Quesadillas

• Use sprouted wheat tortillas, whole wheat tortillas or even corn tortillas instead of white flour tortillas.
• Prep your fillings ahead of time for easy assembly.
• Don’t over stuff your quesadilla. A quesadilla is better when you keep it on the lighter side. If you want some additional veggies, serve with a side salad or some sauteed fresh veggies on the side.
• Tortillas burn easily, so you want to fry your quesadillas on medium heat. It takes about a minute to a minute and a half to get each side crispy and golden–and your cheese will be perfectly melted, too.

Check Out These Other Great Mexican Inspired Recipes

• Healthy Mexican Pizza Recipe (Taco Bell Makeover!)
• Healthy Mexican Stuffed Peppers
• A Mexican Party on a Plate
• Super Easy, Quick and Healthy Mexican Meals
• Vegetable Enchilada Recipe by The Novice Chef
• Healthy Tacos by Chelsea’s Messy Apron

If you have tried this healthy quesadilla recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below! You can also FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST to see more delicious, healthy, family friendly food!