Recycling Your Taco Tuesday Beans! Try This Easy, Protein-Packed Breakfast Burrito
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Time to Read: 8 min
As a busy pediatrician and mom of three, I know firsthand how crazy weekday mornings can be. Between packing lunches, getting kids out the door, and squeezing in early meetings, breakfast can feel like an afterthought. But as a doctor, I also know that what our kids eat in the morning sets the tone for their energy, focus, and overall health.
That’s why I love repurposing leftovers into easy, nutritious meals—like turning Taco Tuesday beans into a delicious, protein-packed breakfast burrito! Not only is it quick and budget-friendly, but it also helps reduce food waste(something I try to be mindful of in my home). Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to sneak in one of the most nutrient-dense foods for kids—spinach!
And when served on Ahimsa’s stainless steel dishes, it’s one less thing to worry about. No plastic, no toxins. Just safe, sustainable mealtime gear that works just as hard as you do.
About Ahimsa
Founded by a pediatrician and mom of three
Stainless steel is the only kid-friendly material recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics
We are guided by a Scientific Advisory Council comprised of environmental and medical experts, guiding us in creating the safest products, following the latest science and promoting policy to protect human health and our planet
Want to know more? Check out our story and our products.
The Power of Spinach: A Pediatrician’s Secret Superfood
If there’s one ingredient I encourage parents to use in every meal, it’s spinach. Why? Because it’s incredibly versatile, and most importantly, it takes on the flavor you give it! That means whether it’s in eggs, smoothies, pasta, or a burrito, it blends seamlessly into whatever you’re making—no complaints from picky eaters!
And let’s talk about the science-backed benefits:
Iron & Energy
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in kids. Spinach is a plant-based source of iron, which helps carry oxygen in the blood and keeps kids from feeling sluggish. Pair it with vitamin C (like salsa or bell peppers in this burrito) to boost absorption!
Bone Health
Spinach is loaded with calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which all contribute to strong bones and healthy growth.
Brain Power
Spinach is loaded with calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which all contribute to strong bones and healthy growth.
Gut-Friendly & Anti-Inflammatory
Spinach is rich in fiber and antioxidants, helping gut health and digestion while reducing inflammation in growing bodies.
Why Repurpose Leftovers? (A Pediatrician’s Perspective on Food Waste & Health)
As a mom, I know grocery bills can add up fast. As a pediatrician, I know that every bite counts—and we have to be mindful of both nutrition and food waste.
Saves Money – Using what’s already in your fridge means fewer last-minute grocery runs and wasted food.
Cuts Down on Food Waste – Did you know that nearly 40% of food in the U.S. gets thrown away? Turning leftovers into something new teaches kids sustainability and helps the planet.
Maximizes Nutrition – Instead of throwing out those extra beans, use them to add fiber, protein, and iron to breakfast, keeping kids full and fueled for the day ahead.
Kid-Friendly & Customizable – Make it fun! Let kids choose their burrito fillings and sneak in some spinach (trust me, they won’t even notice!).
Pro Tip: I always double my batch of beans on Taco Tuesday so I can repurpose them into an easy Thursday breakfast. And I pack them in Ahimsa’s stainless steel containers .
Easy Leftover Bean & Spinach Breakfast Burrito Recipe
5 Minutes
5 Minutes
2-3
Snack
Ingredients
1 cup leftover beans (black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans)
2 large eggs, scrambled
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or dairy-free alternative)
½ cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 small avocado, sliced
½ cup salsa or pico de gallo
1 large whole wheat or flour tortilla
½ teaspoon taco seasoning (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Reheat Beans & Spinach Together – Warm up leftover beans in a pan. Stir in chopped spinach and let it wilt for a quick nutrient boost.
- Scramble the Eggs – Cook eggs over medium heat until just set. Sprinkle with taco seasoning for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Burrito – Layer beans & spinach, eggs, cheese, avocado, and salsa in the tortilla.
- Wrap It Up – Fold the sides in and roll the burrito tightly.
- Toast (Optional) – Lightly grill the burrito on a dry skillet for a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Enjoy! Serve warm with extra salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Serving Tip: Serve the burrito sliced in halves or quarters on Ahimsa’s stainless steel plates to keep the meal warm and mess-free for little hands. Or use the different compartments for a side of chips and salsa. These durable plates are perfect for busy mornings and dishwasher-safe for quick cleanup.
Mealtime Essentials
More Ways to Add Spinach to Every Meal!
As a pediatrician, I always remind parents that small, consistent food choices build a foundation for lifelong health. Adding spinach to every meal is a simple, science-backed way to give kids the nutrients they need without the mealtime battles.
Breakfast: Toss spinach into eggs, smoothies, or breakfast burritos (like this one!).
Lunch: Add a handful to sandwiches, quesadillas, or pasta.
Dinner: Stir into soups, stews, or even pizza sauce—it blends right in!
Picky eater tip: Start small! A few leaves here and there get kids used to the taste without overwhelming them.
Final Thoughts: Food Is the Best Investment in Your Child’s Health
As both a mom and a doctor, I’ve learned that prioritizing nutrition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Simple choices—like repurposing leftovers, adding spinach, and making meals fun—can have a huge impact on your child’s health and future.
And by using Ahimsa’s stainless steel plates and containers, you’re reinforcing healthy habits with mealtime tools that are safe, sustainable, and built to last.
So next time Taco Tuesday leaves you with extra beans, turn them into this power-packed breakfast burrito and start the day strong!
Do you have a favorite way to sneak spinach into meals? Share your tips in the comments below!
Love this recipe? Save it and follow for more easy, healthy, and kid-approved meal ideas!
Dr. Manasa Mantravadi is a board-certified pediatrician whose dedication to children’s health drove her to launch Ahimsa, the world's first colorful stainless steel dishes for kids. She was motivated by the American Academy of Pediatrics’ findings on harmful chemicals in plastic affecting children's well-being. Ahimsa has gained widespread recognition and been featured in media outlets such as Parents Magazine, the Today Show, The Oprah Magazine, and more.
Dr. Mantravadi received the esteemed “Physician Mentor of the Year” award at Indiana University School of Medicine in 2019. She was also named a Forbes Next 1000 Entrepreneur in 2021, with her inspiring story showcased on Good Morning America. She serves on the Council for Environmental Health and Climate Change and the Council for School Health at The American Academy of Pediatrics. She represents Ahimsa as a U.S. industry stakeholder on the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) for the Global Plastics Treaty, led by the United Nations Environment Program. Dr. Mantravadi leads Ahimsa's social impact program, The Conscious Cafeteria Project, to reduce carbon emissions and safeguard student health as part of a national pilot of the Clinton Global Initiative.
She is dedicated to educating and empowering people to make healthier, more environmentally friendly choices at mealtime. Her mission remains to advocate for the health of all children and the one planet we will leave behind for them through real policy change within our food system.
Dr. Manasa Mantravadi
Dr. Manasa Mantravadi is a board-certified pediatrician whose dedication to children’s health drove her to launch Ahimsa, the world's first colorful stainless steel dishes for kids. She was motivated by the American Academy of Pediatrics’ findings on harmful chemicals in plastic affecting children's well-being. Ahimsa has gained widespread recognition and been featured in media outlets such as Parents Magazine, the Today Show, The Oprah Magazine, and more.
Dr. Mantravadi received the esteemed “Physician Mentor of the Year” award at Indiana University School of Medicine in 2019. She was also named a Forbes Next 1000 Entrepreneur in 2021, with her inspiring story showcased on Good Morning America. She serves on the Council for Environmental Health and Climate Change and the Council for School Health at The American Academy of Pediatrics. She represents Ahimsa as a U.S. industry stakeholder on the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) for the Global Plastics Treaty, led by the United Nations Environment Program. Dr. Mantravadi leads Ahimsa's social impact program, The Conscious Cafeteria Project, to reduce carbon emissions and safeguard student health as part of a national pilot of the Clinton Global Initiative.
She is dedicated to educating and empowering people to make healthier, more environmentally friendly choices at mealtime. Her mission remains to advocate for the health of all children and the one planet we will leave behind for them through real policy change within our food system.
More Mealtime Essentials
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use stainless steel instead of plastic? Is stainless steel better for health?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a report in July 2018 suggesting ways that families can limit exposure to certain chemicals at mealtime, including “the use of alternatives to plastic, such as glass or stainless steel, when possible.” The report explained that “…some additives are put directly in foods, while “indirect” additives may include chemicals from plastic, glues, dyes, paper, cardboard”. Further, “Children are more sensitive to chemical exposures because they eat and drink more, relative to body weight, than adults do, and are still growing and developing.” While stainless steel items meet the recommendation to avoid plastic products in children, Ahimsa® products have the obvious advantage of not breaking like glass.
Is stainless steel better for the environment than plastic?
According to the Steel Recycling Institute, steel can be recycled over and over and over again without losing its integrity and requires less energy to recycle than to make anew. Most plastic unfortunately ends up in landfills and it is estimated to take 700 years to decompose. Our special coloring process that allows Ahimsa® products to be fully metal is environmentally friendly, so it does not produce toxic run-off into the ecosystem.
Will Ahimsa products break or peel?
No. Our steel is durable, so it won’t break or shatter with everyday use, like glass. And it won’t peel, like other colored stainless steel products you’ve seen. We use a special process that allows the colors to naturally occur in the metal.
Which Ahimsa products are best for my little one(s)?
Our products are meant to last, you can use Ahimsa at ages 1, 8 and 18! We thoughtfully design our products to be safe for little ones and our planet while reducing consumption. Once your child outgrows the Starting Solids Set and can use regular cups and utensils, the training cup is the perfect size rinse cup in the bathroom, the infant spoon doubles as a tea stirrer and the bowl is great for snacks or as an additional compartment to our modular divided plate. Our plates are great for any age as they encourage choosing a variety of healthy foods at each meal and help visualize portion sizes easily. It’s the lasting beauty of stainless steel - grows with your child and reduces waste.
