Cheesy Vegetable Quesadillas

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken (optional, shredded or diced)
• 1/2 green bell pepper (sliced thinly)
• 1/2 onion (sliced thinly)
• 1 medium tomato (diced)
• 1/2 cup grated carrots (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for cooking)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
   • Sauté the onions and bell peppers until softened (about 3 minutes).
   • If using, add shredded chicken, carrots, tomatoes, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas:
   • Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle half of it with shredded cheese.
   • Add the cooked vegetable (and chicken) mixture over the cheese.
   • Top with more cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
3. Cook the Quesadillas:
   • Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter.
   • Place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Slice and Serve:
   • Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool slightly.
   • Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

This is a customizable and quick meal that can be adapted with different fillings like mushrooms, spinach, or beans. Let me know if you’d like additional variations or side pairing suggestions!