Blueberry Breakfast Quesadillas

When we think of superfoods, the first one that usually comes to mind is the blueberry, and with good reason! Blueberries are one of nature’s great treasures and when it comes to nutrition, blueberries prove that good things really do come in small packages. These little gems know how to pack a punch with immune-boosting antioxidants, fiber, and manganese.

Blueberries get their color from the flavonoid known as anthocyanin. Flavonoids act as antioxidants, which protect our cells from damage that could lead to conditions such as cancer. In addition to their cancer-fighting properties, antioxidants also act as immune-boosters that help fight off infection. Many studies have shown that increasing consumption of plant foods like blueberries decreases risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and overall mortality while promoting a healthy complexion, hair, increased energy and an overall lower weight. And of course, let’s not forget that blueberries can help maintain eye health, too! Blueberries are also an excellent source of manganese, which is important for bone development and helps us convert our food into energy.

As if all these potential benefits weren’t enough, blueberries are also a good source of fiber. Dietary fiber is commonly recognized as an important factor in weight loss and weight management by functioning as a bulking agent in the digestive system. High fiber foods increase satiety and reduce appetite, allowing you to feel fuller longer and help you lower your overall caloric intake.

One cup of fresh blueberries provides about 84 calories, 1 gram of protein, 21 grams of carbohydrates, and nearly 4 grams of dietary fiber. That same one-cup serving provides nearly 25% of your daily vitamin C requirement! Blueberries also provide iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, folate, beta-carotene, choline, vitamin A, and vitamin E. Try incorporating blueberries into your diet with this indulgent breakfast recipe that won’t wreck your waistline!

September is also National Fruits & Veggies Month - More Matters. These delicious breakfast quesadillas are a great way to add delicious and nutritious fruit to your morning routine. The best part is that you can use fresh or frozen blueberries, and all forms matter! 

Blueberry Breakfast Quesadilla

Ingredients:

1 Large light tortilla or Flatout wrap

1 container light cream cheese, strawberry flavored

½  cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Powdered sugar (optional)

Cooking spray

Directions 

1) Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

2) Meanwhile smear the cream cheese on half of the flatbread and top with an even layer of blueberries.

3) Spray the skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Fold the flatbread in half and grill the “quesadilla” about 2 minutes a side until the bread crisps and the blueberries defrost.

4) Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

To learn more about the Fruits & Veggies More Matters campaign, please click here.