Tuesday, June 7, 2011

BLACK BEAN AND GOAT CHEESE QUESADILLAS



Black beans are a favorite of mine; in fact, I prefer black beans to refried beans with my Mexican food. I haven't met too many cheeses that I don't like, but goat cheese is a particular favorite. So, when I saw this recipe in an America's Test Kitchen 30-Minute Suppers magazine, I knew it was something I'd have to try. I've been using the lower sodium black beans and can discern no difference in taste. I've always got whole wheat tortillas in the fridge, so that was what I used for the wrapper.

Serves 4
1 (16 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (4 oz) log goat cheese, crumbled
1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 jalapeno chile, seeded and minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
4 (12 inch) whole wheat tortillas

Combine the beans, goat cheese, Monterey Jack, jalapeno, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Divide cheese mixture evenly over one half of each tortilla, leaving 1/2 inch border around edge. Fold tortillas over filling and press down firmly.

Add 2 quesadillas to large nonstick skillet and cook over medium high heat until golden and crisp, about 2 minutes. Using spatula, flip the quesadillas and cook until the other side is golden brown and the cheese is melted, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to cutting board and repeat with remaining quesadillas. Cut into wedges and serve with your choice of condiments (we prefer sour cream and salsa, but guacamole would be delicious as well).
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TASTE NOTES
I like that all the ingredients were combined before assembling the quesadillas because it ensured that each bite contained a little bit of everything. This is a tasty, meatless meal which I rounded out with a chopped salad. I didn't feel it warranted a starch, but you could serve it with yellow rice if you're so inclined. It would make a great snack or appetizer as well and the ease of preparation can't be beat.

9 comments:

  1. These sound like my idea of heaven! Definitely trying them.

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  2. Now heres another one was son is going to flip over he just love these ingredients and then what a bonus in a quesadillas nice job!

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  3. I'm doing this. I also prefer black beans over refried, live in goat cheese heaven and the simplicity of the meal entices. But the simplicity doesn't mean it sacrificed flavor!

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  4. fabulous, what wonderful flavors. i'm a black bean gal too!

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  5. Great idea, I love Black Beans...and really love my got cheese. Great choice here.

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  6. I love the idea of having goat cheese on it, but the black beans is a no no for me. Not a fan of black beans.

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  7. Anything with black beans, or beans in general, wins a place in my heart. Beans are a top favorite in my house! I love the goat cheese too, which is great since it is one of the lighter cheeses out there. This looks delicious. Makes me want to strap on my pig nose.... ha ha.

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  8. What a perfect easy and fast dinner!!

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  9. I'm craving cheese right now and these look really delicious. They are going on the list. ;-)

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