Meatless Quesadillas

Easter is just a little over a month away!  And if you're Catholic, then you are most likely on the hunt for some meat-free meal ideas to make on Fridays during Lent.  While forgoing meat on Fridays is not a huge sacrifice to me personally...it is for John who is a huge meat eater!  My sacrifice is really planning the meatless menu!  One option that we both enjoy are these Meatless Quesadillas.  They are a quick meal that can be made in 15 minutes!  It's a great option for a light dinner or even for lunch.  Using corn tortillas makes this meal Gluten Free as well! 

Here's What You Need to Make the Meatless Quesadillas:

• 12 to 16 corn tortillas
• 2 - 3 cups shredded cheese - I used a Mexican Blend but you could use plain cheddar, monteray jack, etc.
• 2 bell peppers, any color, diced 
• 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
• 1 cup black beans
• 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

Now Let's Make the Meatless Quesadillas:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet (non-stick is easiest)
2. Add the diced peppers and sauté until slightly tender
   
3. Add the corn and cook for additional minute
4. Add black beans and stir until heated through
   
5. Add all seasonings, stir, and taste - add more of any spices if desired
6. Turn heat off and set mixture aside 
7. Place 6 corn tortillas on a large griddle
8. Top each tortilla with 2-3 tbsp of shredded cheese
9. Top the cheese with 3-4 tbsp of veggie and bean filling
   
10. Top filling with 2-3 additional tbsp of shredded cheese
11. Finally close the quesadillas with an additional corn tortilla
12. Turn heat on and cook until cheese is melted and quesadilla is lightly browned on the bottom
13. Use a spatula to flip and cook until lightly browned on the second side 
    
14. Transfer to a cutting board, cut and serve

This will make 6-8 quesadillas depending on the size and how much filling you use!  

Quesadillas are a great and fast meal!  It is also super easy to mix up any of the ingredients to meet the dietary needs and tastes of your family!  When I make this throughout the rest of the year, I will add shredded chicken to make them not meatless (and more filling for the hubby).