Thursday, February 23, 2012

Veggie Quesadillas, Family Favorite

Quesadillas have to be one of my all time favorite foods.  In addition to being healthy and delicious, they are incredibly easy to prepare, cook in about 2 minutes and can be made in countless yummy combinations. For this recipe, I use mozzarella cheese, spinach, red bell pepper and mango in a whole wheat tortilla. This healthy dinner takes less than 10 minutes to prepare, including the cook time!


This recipe is suitable for toddlers (12+ months), big kids and adults. For younger toddlers, cut the quesadilla and tomatoes into very small, bite sized pieces he can handle.

What you'll need - makes 2 quesadillas
2 whole wheat tortillas - preferably organic and made with non-GMO wheat.
2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup of organic, fresh baby spinach - washed and chopped
1 cup of mango - chopped
1 cup of organic red bell pepper - washed, de-ribbed, seeded and chopped 
Sour cream for dipping (optional)
Fresh Salsa for dipping (optional)
Olive oil spray - preferably organic

*Spray a medium skillet with olive oil spray and heat over medium-high.
*When the skillet is hot, add 1 tortilla and place 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese evenly on top. 
*Lower the heat to medium and let the cheese melt for about 1 minute.
*Add 1/2 cup each of mango, spinach and red bell pepper.
*Using a spatula, fold the tortilla in half and let cook for about 30 seconds, then flip over and cook another 30 seconds on the other side.
*Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and place on a cutting board. Cut it into triangles and serve with a dollop of sour cream and/or salsa if desired.  I like to use a pizza cutter for quesadillas.
*Repeat above steps for 2nd quesadilla and enjoy! + Add to my Recipe Box

Friday, February 17, 2012

Fun Fact - Soybeans

Did you know that soybeans are one of nature's superfoods?  They are packed with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and anti cancer compounds.  Soybeans are also rich in non meat protein, making them an excellent food for vegetarian babies.  Also called edamame, cooked soybeans make a great finger food for babies 10-12 months and up.  Soybeans are one of the largest genetically modified crops, buy organic whenever possible. 

Look for soybeans that have bright green, firm shells.  Fresh soybeans are perishable and will only stay fresh in your refrigerator for about 3 days.  Frozen soybeans are great to use and will stay fresh for many months in the freezer.

Unless otherwise directed by your pediatrician, your baby can start enjoying soybeans between 10-12 months old.



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Friday, February 3, 2012

Fun Fact - Olive Oil

Did you know that olive oil is a wonderful skin moisturizer? It is especially helpful during these cold winter months. Try putting some pure olive oil on your cuticles, you'll be amazed at how hydrated and soft they'll be! You can also put olive oil on your lips when they're chapped. Pure olive oil is incredibly hydrating, 100% natural and completely non-toxic - nature at it's best!

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