Mexican Snack Squares

Mexican Snack Squares Recipe - Delicious Crescent Rolls with Refried Beans, Cheese, and Vegetables

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15-20 minutes | Servings: 12-16

Introduction

Mexican Snack Squares are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for parties, game days, or any time you're craving a tasty snack. These squares are made with crescent dinner rolls, refried beans, sour cream, taco seasoning, cheese, and a variety of fresh vegetables. They are baked to perfection and served with salsa for a flavorful kick.

History

Mexican Snack Squares are a popular dish in Mexican cuisine that combines traditional flavors with a modern twist. This recipe takes classic Mexican ingredients and transforms them into a convenient and portable snack that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

2 x 8 oz (227 g) cans of crescent dinner rolls
1 x 16 oz (454 g) can of refried beans
1 cup of sour cream
2 tbsp of taco seasoning mix
6 oz (170 g) of shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 cup of chopped green onion
0.5 cup of chopped green bell pepper
1 cup of chopped tomatoes
0.5 cup of sliced ripe olives
salsa

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Unroll the crescent dough into 4 long rectangles.
Place the rectangles crosswise in an ungreased 15x10x1 inch pan, pressing the dough over the bottom and up the sides to form a crust. Firmly press the perforations together to seal.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 14 to 19 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown. Allow it to cool completely.
Spread the refried beans evenly over the crust, leaving about 0.5 inch of space from the edges.
In a small bowl, combine sour cream and taco seasoning, mixing well.
Spread the sour cream mixture over the refried beans.
Sprinkle shredded cheese, onions, peppers, and tomatoes over the top.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Cut into squares and serve with salsa.

Variations

Add cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for extra protein.
Substitute black beans for refried beans for a healthier twist.
Top with jalapenos or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to press the crescent dough firmly into the pan to create a sturdy crust.

- Be sure to leave a small border around the edges when spreading the refried beans to prevent them from spilling over.

- Refrigerating the squares for an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld together and makes them easier to cut into neat squares.

- Customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences, such as adding jalapenos for extra heat or avocado for a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Snack Squares can be served as an appetizer at parties, game days, or potlucks. They pair well with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to bake the crescent dough until it is golden brown to ensure a crispy crust.

- Refrigerate the squares before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Cut the squares into neat portions for easy serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought or homemade taco seasoning instead of the packaged mix.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.

- Use pinto beans or black beans instead of refried beans.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican Snack Squares can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining or meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the squares on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapenos for a colorful presentation. Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican Snack Squares pair well with a variety of beverages, such as margaritas, beer, or soda. They also go well with other Mexican-inspired dishes, such as tacos, enchiladas, or nachos.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Mexican Snack Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Snack Squares contains around 250 calories. This makes them a satisfying snack or appetizer option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Snack Squares contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. The crescent dough and refried beans contribute to the carbohydrate content of this dish.

Fats

Mexican Snack Squares are a moderate source of fats, with each serving containing around 12 grams of fat. The cheese and sour cream are the main sources of fat in this recipe.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Snack Squares provides approximately 8 grams of protein. The refried beans and cheese are the primary sources of protein in this dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Snack Squares are a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin A. The cheese provides calcium, while the vegetables contribute vitamin C and vitamin A.

Alergens

Mexican Snack Squares contain dairy (cheese and sour cream) and wheat (crescent dough), which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Overall, Mexican Snack Squares are a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. They are a flavorful and satisfying snack that can be enjoyed by all.

Summary

Mexican Snack Squares are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for parties, game days, or any time you're craving a tasty snack. With a crispy crust, creamy refried beans, and a variety of fresh toppings, these squares are sure to be a hit with friends and family. Enjoy them with salsa for a flavorful kick!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Isabella in her cozy kitchen. Isabella was a wonderful cook, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.

On that particular day, Isabella had a special treat in store for me. She had just returned from a trip to Mexico and had brought back a recipe for a delicious snack that she couldn't wait to share with me. As she pulled out the ingredients and began to explain the process, I could sense the excitement in her voice.

The recipe for Mexican Snack Squares was unlike anything I had ever seen before. It called for a unique combination of ingredients such as cornmeal, black beans, tomatoes, and cheese. Isabella explained that this dish was a popular snack in Mexico, often enjoyed at family gatherings and celebrations.

As we worked together in the kitchen, Isabella shared stories of her time in Mexico and the people she had met along the way. She spoke of the warm hospitality and the vibrant culture that had captured her heart. I listened intently, soaking in every detail and savoring the flavors of the dish we were creating.

After a few hours of chopping, mixing, and baking, the Mexican Snack Squares were finally ready. The aroma that filled the kitchen was simply divine, and my mouth watered in anticipation. Isabella and I sat down at the table, eager to taste our creation.

The first bite was pure bliss. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a symphony of taste sensations on my palate. The creamy cheese, the tangy tomatoes, the hearty beans – it was a culinary masterpiece. Isabella beamed with pride as she watched me enjoy the snack squares.

As I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe was something special. It was more than just a dish – it was a connection to a distant land, a tribute to the people and traditions that had inspired it. I felt grateful to have Isabella as a friend, someone who shared not only her recipes but also her stories and experiences.

From that day on, Mexican Snack Squares became a staple in my kitchen. I would make them for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always with a fond memory of that summer afternoon with Isabella. The recipe became a part of me, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

As the years passed, I continued to refine the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to suit my taste. I shared it with friends and family, passing down the tradition from one generation to the next. Each time I made the snack squares, I felt a connection to Isabella and the spirit of adventure that had brought us together.

Today, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing a fresh batch of Mexican Snack Squares, I can't help but smile. The recipe may have originated in Mexico, but it has found a home in my heart. It is a symbol of friendship, of shared experiences, and of the joy that comes from discovering new flavors and traditions.

And as I take that first bite of the warm, cheesy snack squares, I am transported back to that summer afternoon with Isabella, where it all began. The memory may be etched in my mind forever, but the recipe – that will continue to bring joy and connection for years to come.