If you're looking for a protein-packed meal that's both flavorful and satisfying, look no further than this quesarito recipe. Full of flavorful spices, hearty beans, tofu, and a tangy avocado dressing, this quesarito is far from your regular burrito. It's a meal that's sure to keep you full and satisfied throughout the day.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples like onions, garlic, and spices, there are a few items you might not have on hand. Extra firm tofu is a great source of protein and can be found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are usually available canned and can be found in the same aisle as other canned vegetables. Large flour tortillas are typically found in the bread aisle.
Protein-Packed Quesarito Ingredients
Avocado: A creamy source of healthy fats, used here in a flavorful dressing.
Tofu: Extra firm variety is best for this recipe, providing a meaty texture and plenty of protein.
Sweet potato: Adds a hint of sweetness and a boost of vitamins.
Chickpeas: These hearty legumes add more protein and a satisfying crunch.
Flour tortillas: The vessel for all the delicious ingredients. Opt for large ones to hold everything.
Cheese blend: Melty and delicious, cheese takes this quesarito to the next level.
Spinach: Fresh greens add a bit of crunch and extra nutrients.
Tomato: Adds a fresh burst of flavor.
Black beans: Another great source of protein, black beans are also incredibly filling.
Corn: Adds a bit of sweetness and crunch.
One reader, Janie Gorman says:
This protein-packed quesarito recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tofu, chickpeas, and avocado dressing is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The flavors are so well-balanced, and it's a great way to get a protein boost in a tasty, fun meal. Highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making a Protein-Packed Quesarito
How to make avocado dressing: Blend avocado, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, pepper, salt, and water until smooth.
How to sauté onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add the onions, and cook for 3 minutes until translucent.
How to cook tofu: In a skillet, combine garlic, tofu, paprika, cumin, and chili powder, then add soy sauce and cook for 3 minutes until heated through.
How to cook sweet potatoes: In the same skillet, cook sweet potatoes with salt and pepper for about 5 minutes until tender.
How to cook chickpeas: In the skillet, cook chickpeas with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper for about 5 minutes until crispy.
How to assemble quesarito: Place a tortilla in a pan, sprinkle with cheese, cover with another tortilla, cook for 3 minutes until cheese melts, then fill with spinach, tofu, tomatoes, black beans, corn, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas, and drizzle with avocado dressing. Fold and roll up the tortilla to serve.
How To Make Protein-Packed Quesarito
Enjoy quesadilla and burrito in one scrumptious bite with this quesarito recipe. It comes with spiced tofu and veggies with a tasty avocado dressing.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Avocado Dressing:
- 1avocado
- 1lime,juiced
- ¼cupolive oil
- 3clovesgarlic
- ½tsppepper
- ½tspsalt
- 2tbspwater
For Quesarito:
- 1tbspolive oil,plus more as needed
- ½cupwhite onion
- 2clovesgarlic
- 7ozextra firm tofu,crumbled
- ¼tspsmoked paprika
- 1tspchili powder
- ½tspcumin
- 2tspsoy sauce
- 1medium sweet potato,peeled and diced
- ¾tspsalt,divided
- ¾tsppepper,divided
- 15ozchickpeas,(1 can), drained and rinsed
- 1tspgarlic powder
- 1tspchili powder
- 8large flour tortillas
- 2cupscheese blend,shredded
- 2cupsfresh spinach
- 1cupdiced tomato
- 1cupblack beans
- 1cupcorn
Instructions
-
Make the avocado dressing: in a blender, combine the avocado, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, pepper, salt, and water, and blend until smooth.
-
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
-
Add the garlic, tofu, paprika, cumin, and chili powder, and stir to combine. Add the soy sauce, stir, and cook for 3 minutes more, until the tofu mixture is evenly heated.
-
Transfer the tofu to a medium bowl and set aside.
-
Add more oil to the pan if needed, then add the sweet potatoes, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Stir, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.
-
Remove the sweet potato from the pan and set it aside.
-
Add the chickpeas, garlic powder, chili powder, remaining ¼ teaspoon salt, and remaining ¼ teaspoon pepper. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the chickpeas are crispy.
-
Remove chickpeas and set them aside.
-
Reduce the heat to medium-low, add a tortilla to the pan and sprinkle with ½ cup cheese, then cover with another tortilla.
-
Cook for about 3 minutes until the cheese melts, flipping once halfway through. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and cheese.
-
Transfer the tortillas to plates and fill with spinach, tofu, tomatoes, black beans, corn, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas. Drizzle with avocado dressing.
-
Fold in the left and right sides of the tortillas and roll up from the bottom, tucking the bottom edges under the filling.
-
Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1602.77kcal
- Fat: 68.39g
- Saturated Fat: 19.35g
- Trans Fat: 0.80g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 30.21g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.34g
- Carbohydrates: 187.76g
- Fiber: 32.86g
- Sugar: 22.72g
- Protein: 70.61g
- Cholesterol: 67.32mg
- Sodium: 1664.41mg
- Calcium: 1185.46mg
- Potassium: 2591.25mg
- Iron: 14.83mg
- Vitamin A: 520.63µg
- Vitamin C: 31.96mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Quesaritos
When preparing the tofu, it's important to press it before cooking to remove excess moisture. This will help it absorb the flavors of the garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder more effectively. To press tofu, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place it on a flat surface, and put a heavy object on top, such as a skillet or a can. Leave it for about 15-20 minutes. This simple step can significantly enhance the texture and taste of your quesarito.
Time-Saving Tips for Making a Quesarito
Prep ahead: Prepare the avocado dressing, tofu, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas in advance to save time when assembling the quesarito.
One-pan cooking: Use the same skillet for cooking the different components of the quesarito to minimize clean-up and save time.
Batch cooking: Cook a larger quantity of the tofu, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas to use in other meals throughout the week.
Organized workspace: Keep all the ingredients and tools organized and within reach to streamline the cooking process.
Multitasking: While one component is cooking, prepare the next ingredient to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Protein-Packed Quesarito Recipe
avocado - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to avocado, while also adding a boost of protein to the dressing.
extra firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firmer texture and nuttier flavor, making it a great alternative to tofu in this recipe.
sweet potato - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to sweet potato, and it can be roasted or mashed to provide a similar texture in the quesarito filling.
chickpeas - Substitute with black beans: Black beans can provide a similar protein and fiber content to chickpeas, while adding a rich and earthy flavor to the quesarito filling.
cheese blend - Substitute with vegan cheese blend: A vegan cheese blend can be used to make the quesarito dairy-free while still providing a melty and flavorful topping.
fresh spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a nutritious and hearty substitute for spinach, adding a slightly earthy and robust flavor to the quesarito.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable alternative to black beans in the quesarito filling.
corn - Substitute with diced bell peppers: Diced bell peppers can add a sweet and crunchy texture similar to corn, while also providing a pop of color and flavor to the quesarito.
Best Way to Present a Protein-Packed Quesarito
Elevate the avocado dressing: Create a beautiful swirl of the avocado dressing on the plate using a squeeze bottle for a professional touch.
Artful arrangement of the quesarito: Carefully place the quesarito on the plate, ensuring that the fillings are evenly distributed and the tortilla is neatly rolled.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with finely chopped cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Incorporate microgreens: Place a small cluster of microgreens on top of the quesarito for a delicate and elegant touch.
Use a smear of avocado dressing: Swipe a small amount of the avocado dressing on the plate before placing the quesarito for a visually appealing presentation.
Add a drizzle of olive oil: Finish the dish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a glossy sheen and added depth of flavor.
Plate with precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the quesarito and accompanying elements are arranged with finesse and attention to detail.
Emphasize color contrast: Arrange the quesarito on a white plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the fillings and garnishes.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a small edible flower, such as a nasturtium or pansy, on the plate for an exquisite and sophisticated touch.
Use tweezers for precision: Utilize tweezers to carefully position small garnishes and herbs, showcasing meticulous attention to detail.
Essential Tools for Making a Quesarito
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, purée, or emulsify food and other substances.
- Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and low sides, used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
- Medium bowl: A bowl of moderate size used for mixing, stirring, and holding ingredients.
- Large skillet: A wide, flat pan with a long handle, used for frying and sautéing larger quantities of food.
- Pan: A shallow, flat-bottomed cooking vessel used for frying, searing, and sautéing.
- Tortilla press: A tool used to flatten balls of dough into tortillas.
- Grater: A kitchen utensil with sharp-edged perforations used for shredding or grating foods.
- Cutting board: A durable board on which food is cut and prepared.
- Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting or slicing ingredients.
- Spatula: A broad, flat, flexible tool used for lifting, spreading, or flipping foods.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for picking up and holding foods.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, purée, or emulsify food and other substances.
- Skewers: Long, narrow metal or wooden sticks used to hold and cook food.
- Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for covering and wrapping foods during cooking or storage.
How To Store and Freeze Homemade Quesaritos
- To store leftover quesaritos, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the quesaritos. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
- When ready to eat, remove the desired number of quesaritos from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- To reheat, unwrap the quesarito and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- If you have leftover avocado dressing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The lime juice in the dressing will help prevent the avocado from turning brown.
- To freeze the avocado dressing, pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw the cubes in the refrigerator overnight before using.
How To Reheat Quesarito Leftovers
To reheat your leftover protein-packed quesarito, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your quesarito is heated evenly throughout.
Wrap the quesarito in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out during the reheating process. The foil will also help to keep the filling inside the tortilla, preventing any messy spills.
Place the wrapped quesarito on a baking sheet and put it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the quesarito is heated through and the cheese is melted.
If you prefer a crispier texture, unwrap the quesarito for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the tortilla to crisp up slightly, giving you a delightful contrast of textures.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the quesarito on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer tortilla compared to oven reheating.
If you have any leftover avocado dressing, you can reheat it separately in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds, or until it's warmed to your liking.
Once your quesarito is reheated, let it cool for a minute or two before serving, as the filling will be hot. Slice the quesarito in half diagonally to expose the colorful and delicious layers of spinach, tofu, tomatoes, black beans, corn, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas.
Random Fact About Quesaritos
The protein-packed quesarito recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with a healthy twist. It's a great way to incorporate plant-based protein sources such as tofu and chickpeas into your diet. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to customize the fillings to your liking, making it a perfect option for a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, the avocado dressing adds a creamy and flavorful touch to the dish, enhancing its overall taste. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to add more protein to your diet, this quesarito recipe is a fantastic choice.
Is Making Quesaritos at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this protein-packed quesarito recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. While avocado, tofu, and chickpeas can be affordable and nutritious, the total cost may vary based on local market prices. Considering the versatility and nutritional value of the ingredients, this recipe could be a budget-friendly option for a household. The approximate cost for a family of four would be around $25-$30. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Is This Quesarito Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This protein-packed quesarito recipe is a healthier twist on a classic favorite. It incorporates several nutritious ingredients:
- Avocado dressing provides healthy fats and fiber
- Tofu and chickpeas offer lean protein sources
- Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals
- Spinach, tomatoes, black beans, and corn add more fiber and nutrients
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved:
- Using large flour tortillas may add extra calories and refined carbohydrates
- The cheese blend, depending on the type used, could be high in saturated fat
- The overall sodium content might be a bit high due to the added salt and soy sauce
To make this recipe even healthier, consider these suggestions:
- Opt for whole wheat or sprouted grain tortillas to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbs
- Use a reduced-fat cheese or a smaller amount of a strongly flavored cheese like sharp cheddar to cut down on saturated fat without compromising taste
- Reduce the added salt and soy sauce, and rely more on the spices and herbs for flavor
- Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to boost the nutrient density
- Serve with a side salad or raw veggies to make it a more balanced meal
Editor's Thoughts on This Protein-Packed Recipe
This protein-packed quesarito recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tofu, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a variety of fresh vegetables creates a satisfying and nutritious meal. The avocado dressing adds a creamy and zesty element, tying the dish together beautifully. The use of spices and seasonings enhances the overall taste profile, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. This recipe offers a wonderful balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a fantastic option for a wholesome and flavorful meal.
Enhance Your Protein-Packed Quesarito Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to a Protein-Packed Quesarito
Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Quesarito
Why trust this Protein-Packed Quesarito Recipe:
This protein-packed quesarito recipe offers a nutritious and flavorful meal. The avocado dressing provides a creamy and zesty element, while the use of tofu and chickpeas ensures a high protein content. The inclusion of sweet potatoes adds a natural sweetness and a dose of vitamins, making it a wholesome choice. Additionally, the blend of cheese and spinach offers a satisfying and balanced flavor profile. With a variety of fresh and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a trustworthy option for those seeking a nutritious and delicious meal.
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