Ingredients:

  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (165g) frozen corn, thawed
  • 1 cup (115g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (115g) Sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) mild salsa or pico de gallo
  • 1 tsp (2g) ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) garlic powder
  • 8 medium (7 inch / 18cm) flour tortillas
  • 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter or neutral oil

Instructions:

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the rinsed black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  2. Mash approximately 1/4 cup of the black beans with a fork to create a binding texture, then stir in half of the shredded cheese.
  3. Place a flour tortilla flat on a work surface and sprinkle a thin layer of the remaining cheese over the entire surface.
  4. Spoon approximately 1/3 cup of the bean mixture onto one half of the tortilla, leaving a small margin around the edge. Top with another layer of cheese and fold the tortilla in half to create a semi-circle.
  5. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat with a small amount of butter or oil.
  6. Place the folded quesadilla in the pan, pressing down gently with a spatula. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
  7. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.