Children seem more willing to try and explore new food through hands on experiences. One my of favorite things to hear parents say is, “My child would never eat this at home,” as the child shovels fresh tomatoes, or greens and herbs into their mouths.
Through a partnership with Amber Waves Farm, CMEE is proud to invite families to try new veggies, learn new recipes, and play with their food! Sign up now for this summer’s In The Kitchen family cooking program to learn new recipes alongside your child at Calissa in Watermill.
Here is a sweet veggie recipe to try at home with your child, right now:
Sweet Potato Black Bean Quesadillas
Ingedients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into cubes
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp chopped cilantro (optional…some people think it tastes like soap!)
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 8 medium tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (your preference)
Directions
- Place potatoes in a large pot of water, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let potatoes cook for 10-15 minutes, or until very tender. Drain and transfer to a bowl.
- Allow child to add chili powder, salt, and cilantro. Child can mash potato using potato masher or whisk.
- With child, spread potato onto tortilla (about 1/4 cup per tortilla)
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup black beans, and handful of cheese on top.
- Cover with another tortilla.
- Spray frying pan with cooking spray; cook quesadilla in a hot pan 3-4 minutes per side, or until cheese is melted and it is heated all the way through. Slice into quarters!
Pro Tip: Add extra veggies! Before mashing, add a few handfuls of baby spinach to hot sweet potatoes. Toss spinach and potatoes until spinach wilts.
Have a simple and fun recipe you’d like to share? E-mail Chef Liz!