Today’s recipe is on the simpler side, but it’s an everyday recipe that I love to eat as lunch or as a snack. I call it a “quesadilla”, but it’s completely vegan and doesn’t contain any cheese alternatives, just whole, plant-based foods. Instead of cheese, I made an avocado dressing that acts as a filling and gives kind of a gooey texture that’s quesadilla-esque. Paired with layers of baby kale and spinach sandwiched in a gluten-free tortilla, it’s a healthful and delicious meal that takes minutes to prepare.
Now onto life stuff. I’ll be totally honest – I’ve been having a hard time working on recipes lately. My appetite is so variable because of my digestive issues, that I can’t count on myself being able to eat much on any given day. I’ll either be ravenous for everything, or subsist on two smoothies a day or less. And let me tell you, it is incredibly difficult to work with food when you have no appetite. And my parents are very “meat and potatoes” kind of people – my dad wouldn’t be caught dead eating a vegetarian dinner. It’s definitely a struggle, for sure.
So I’ve been pulling recipes out of my back pocket to post on here, but I worry about what I’m going to do for the future. Well and Full is my lifeblood, you know? This blog means everything to me, and it’s incredibly frustrating to be dealing with digestive issues when I work with food so much. So I hope to get my appetite back soon and be able to start working on recipes regularly again.
But I can’t help but think about how grateful I am that I have this space to come back to at all. It’s like having an old friend that’s always willing to listen (or be a home for my written words). And I’m so thankful to you, my readers, for being here for me as I stumble through life right now. Your comments and emails mean the world to me, truly. This is kind of embarrassing to admit, but it’s been kind of lonely going through these digestive issues and not being able to go out and be in public that often. So having this online community here – in a space that’s accessible to me right now – is so so important in my life. Interacting with you all makes my day, every day. So thank you – THANK YOU – every single one of you.
Green Goddess Quesadillas
Ingredients
Quesadillas
- 6-8 Brown Rice Tortillas
- Baby Spinach
- Baby Kale
Avocado Dressing
- 1 Avocado
- Juice from 1/2 Lemon
- 1/3 Cup Fresh Cilantro
- 1/4 Cup Fresh Basil
- 1 Tbs Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 Tsp Salt
- 1/2 Tsp Pepper
Instructions
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Start by making the avocado dressing. In a blender or food processor, combine all dressing ingredients and process until smooth and creamy.
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Then, assemble your quesadillas. There's enough dressing to make up to 8 quesadillas (depending on how much you use), but you can make as many as you like and save the dressing for later.
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Start by spreading the avocado dressing onto the brown rice tortillas. Then, layer with spinach and baby kale.
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If desired, toast quesadillas in a frying pan with a little olive oil, about 2-3 minutes on each side on medium low heat.
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Cut quesadillas into slices and serve!
P.S.
If you make this recipe and post it on Instagram, be sure to tag me @wellandfull and #wellandfull so I can see! I love seeing your takes on my recipes :)
52 Comments
amanda
July 6, 2016 at 10:54 amhi friend! i’m glad to see you pop in and update all of us. I went through a slew of digestive issues for about 10 months last year and I completely know where you are coming from. It’s draining, and it’s so hard to figure out why food is acting as the enemy when you love it so much, and your body just isn’t in parallel. I’m always here to talk if you need it!
xo
Sarah
July 6, 2016 at 1:51 pmThank you so much Amanda!! I really appreciate that :)
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine
July 6, 2016 at 12:35 pmBiggest green goddess fan here <3
I've been going through a flare up of issues again after doing so well for so long. Yea, it can be hard and "lonely" when I'm just not feeling well and it's hard to have other people understand that.
Sarah
July 6, 2016 at 1:53 pmIt’s really hard. I hope your issues resolve soon, Rebecca <3
Leah M @ love me, feed me
July 6, 2016 at 12:40 pmOh baaaaby <3 This is one beautiful quesadilla! And everything I've been craving lately!!
I feel ya on the struggle to make recipes. My freezer is so full of recipe tests and I'm the only one in my house that ever eats them, it just gets overwhelming.
I hope your digestive issues get better, sweet pea! I wish I could come be your recipe eater ;)
Sarah
July 6, 2016 at 1:54 pmAww thank you so much Leah! I wish you could be my recipe eater too ;)
Shanna | Kiss My Bowl
July 6, 2016 at 12:57 pmMmmmmmm Sarah! These look incredible. Green Goddess Everything! I hear you on the digestive stuff, I’ve been working really hard at taking things our and putting things in trying to fix whatever is going on in there. I hear you. I hope it gets better for you!
Sarah
July 6, 2016 at 1:55 pmThank you so much, Shanna, I really appreciate it! :)
Maya | Spice + Sprout
July 6, 2016 at 2:10 pmAww, Sarah! I am so sorry to hear that. It really sucks to feel like the thing you put your creative energies into is also hurting you :( I went through a bunch of digestive stuff last summer and seeing a nutritionist really helped, but they always seem to come back in some form or another, so I feel ya girl. These quesadillas look totally awesome, and I am definitely sending a (or a few) nominations your way ;) <3
Sarah
July 6, 2016 at 4:19 pmAww thanks Maya!! And I didn’t know you had digestive issues last summer :( I’m sorry to hear that. I saw a nutritionist too but it didn’t really help me that much. Oh well, hopefully we’ll both figure out our digestive issues soon! <3 <3
Megan
July 6, 2016 at 2:13 pmI can only imagine what you’re going through right now, ESPECIALLY being someone who works with food. That has to be so disheartening. I really admire that you’re working through this and keeping up in this space. Have you thought of documenting the foods that you are able eat to stay nourished while feeling less-than-ideal? I’ve definitely had days where I feel terrible and don’t want to make or eat anything, but know the only way to recover is to treat myself well. I think it would be a great resource to share some of the things you find that are comforting and nourishing but don’t overwhelm the system.
Anyhow, sending good vibes your way!!! I’m glad that you have this space to stay connected :)
Sarah
July 6, 2016 at 4:24 pmThanks Megan! And that’s actually an idea I’ve been throwing around for a while… but the problem is, it would be a LOT of smoothie and white rice recipes :O But maybe I’ll give it a try! Thanks for the support, girl <3
Natalie | Feasting on Fruit
July 6, 2016 at 6:05 pmThe solution is I move next door to you and then I will taste test and devour all your delicious recipes after you photograph them! I kid, I kid, but everything you make does look so incredibly amazing it would be quite a lucky job. But on a serious note, I am so sorry you are in such a tricky spot. Torn between creativity that is mentally nourishing and doing what it takes to hopefully heal your body physically. I know there is a definite correlation for me between days I don’t feel well digestion-wise and my productivity, especially when trying to do something creative. It sucks. I wish there was something I could do or could give you a big hug or something! Know that this too shall pass. And you are still a kick-ass recipe creator and photographer even when you aren’t feeling very inspired <3
Sarah
July 6, 2016 at 6:22 pmAww Natalie, you’re so sweet! Your comment made me smile :) Things are definitely tough right now, but having virtual hugs from friends like you makes me feel way better :D
Pia
July 7, 2016 at 11:34 amYou know, to an extent I can actually relate to you. I mean, I don’t run a blog, so it’s not like I “have to” get creative and inventive in the kitchen in order to be able to deliver, but I feel you on the whole lack of appetite front and the like. Frankly, I myself have been eating the same foods for months and moths now, day in and day out, simply because, even though I wish I craved or fancied other foods, even just the thought of eating them makes my whole system turn and go “ew no”. So yeah, it sucks, and you’re not alone. In saying that, I think it’s great that you’ve become so open on here and I personally really appreciate the trust you have towards your readers. Also, depending on what makes you struggle, I’ve found bread-y things, oatmeal, chickpeas and peas, spinach, as well as nectarines to be fairly stomach friendly, probably since they are pretty mild and not too acidic. Obviously, you probably knew that already, but yeah….
Apart from that, although it’s all pretty frustrating and messed up at the moment, try to not even allow yourself to think so negatively. Things will become more clear eventually and you will figure out what it takes to achieve and maintain a sense of balance and normality again. You’ll make it work, and you will be okay. Okay?
So that’s my little rant for today, I guess.
Take care, keep your head up, and have a nice Thursday :)
Sarah
July 7, 2016 at 12:07 pmWell honestly it makes me feel better that you can relate, Pia. The worst feeling is feeling like you’re going through something alone. Which is why I’ve been so open about my health issues here on my blog, in the hopes that someone might understand and be able to help. I’m trying not to think negatively, but it’s so darn hard sometimes when it feels like nothing in your life is going well. I just have to keep believing that I’ll be okay one day, and that I’ll make it work. Thanks so much as always for your support and kind sentiments, it means a lot to me <3
Sandy
July 7, 2016 at 11:37 amHi Sarah. I can’t get your situation out of my mind. I went vegan five years ago and last year was diagnosed with IBS. I couldn’t eat anything other than white rice, white bread, bananas, and sometimes watermelon. I was so into veggies in all forms and loved them but no way unless I wanted to suffer. Sometimes, life happens and rather than fight to stay in the familiar place, we can try to be open to changes that perhaps will offer us a different kind of happiness. I am much older than you and know this from personal experience. Life has a wisdom we can’t understand until afterwards. I hope you find peace amidst all of this chaos. And thank you for share your journey with us.
Sarah
July 7, 2016 at 12:11 pmThank you so much for leaving a note, Sandy. You definitely hit the nail on the head… I’ve been averse to changing my diet because I love vegetables and it’s so hard to give them up. But I really like the way you put it – opening yourself up to change that might lead to a different sort of happiness. Wise words. It’s something I’ll definitely have to work on, but it’s all part of the journey. Like you said, oftentimes in life you don’t see the wisdom of a situation until afterwards. Hopefully I’ll reach that point soon :) Thanks again.
cakespy
July 7, 2016 at 1:00 pmOMG two of my favorite things in one recipe. This is the best thing I’ve come across all day!
Sarah
July 8, 2016 at 9:59 amThank you!! :D
danielle | rooting the sun
July 7, 2016 at 9:55 pmyou have all my love and strength, sarah. i admire your commitment and honesty to this space. food should never be the enemy, and it breaks my heart, but your spirit seems so strong to know that this isn’t forever. been your fan, always will be. xo
Sarah
July 8, 2016 at 10:01 amThank you so much Danielle. Your note really touched my heart <3
Devon
July 7, 2016 at 10:06 pmMade these tonight and they made my mind AND body sooo happy after a long day. Sending you healing energy, beautiful!! <3
Sarah
July 8, 2016 at 10:01 amI’m so glad you liked them, Devon!! Thank you! <3
Nadia
July 8, 2016 at 5:27 amman, i have to try that avo dressing the next time i make quesadilla! looks AMAZING!
Sarah
July 8, 2016 at 10:01 amThanks Nadia!! :D
Evi @ greenevi
July 8, 2016 at 5:52 amI totally feel you with these struggles. Though I always have a big appetite, I never feel like cooking when nobody else can taste it. And even if I cook I don’t do anything creative or interesting…
Anyways, these quesadillas look absolutely fantastic. Green goddess, you just always know what I need (I wish I could be at your house whenever you need a recipe tester)!!
Pinned :)
Sarah
July 8, 2016 at 10:02 amAww thanks Evi!! I wish you could come be my recipe tester too! ;)
thefolia
July 11, 2016 at 3:39 amViva la verdi quesadilla!
Sarah
July 12, 2016 at 10:40 am:)
Cailee
July 11, 2016 at 11:27 amThis looks amazing babe!! And I’m so sorry that you’re having some digestive issues. I totally know how ya feel! When you’re doing everything ‘right’ and still don’t feel great… I can definitely relate! But I hope you feel better in no time!!
xoxo Cailee!
Sarah
July 12, 2016 at 10:40 amThank you so much Cailee!! :D
mia
July 14, 2016 at 1:43 pmoh my gosh these look and sound AMAZING! I cannot wait to try them. hope your appetite is back soon!
Sarah
July 15, 2016 at 10:52 amThanks Mia, I hope it comes back soon too! :)
Sus // roughmeasures.com
July 14, 2016 at 5:02 pmSo sorry you’re struggling and your guy is being tricksy! I hope things calm and settle for you soon. I know what you mean about feeling lonely and having the comfort of your blog. Sometimes I forget people even read my words. This lovely recipe (simple or not) is stunning and it’s making me excited for lunch tomorrow.
Sending you positive gut vibes Sarah!
Sarah
July 15, 2016 at 10:31 amThank you so much for the healing vibes, Sus! :)
Jackie
July 14, 2016 at 6:41 pmThese quesadillas look amazingly delicious! Can’t wait to try this out for myself :))
xoxo
Sea Salt Shoes
Sarah
July 15, 2016 at 10:32 amThanks Jackie! Hope you like them!
Sandra
July 15, 2016 at 2:43 amWhere can I buy – who makes brown rice torillas please?
Sarah
July 15, 2016 at 10:36 amThis is the brand of tortillas that I used! I bought them at Whole Foods :) But I think a lot of grocery stores carry brown rice tortillas in the gluten-free section of the freezers nowadays.
Traci | Vanilla And Bean
July 15, 2016 at 8:32 amThinking of you, Sarah, while you work on and sort through these challenges. We’re all waiting for your next post, in your time. hugs, xo
Sarah
July 15, 2016 at 10:36 amThank you so much for your thoughts, Traci. It really means so much to me <3
Aimee
July 16, 2016 at 7:12 amSorry to hear it’s a bit of a struggle at the moment. I hate when things get out of balance, I almost don’t know what to do with myself. But things will come around again soon and in the mean time, these quesadillas look AH-MAZING.
Sarah
July 16, 2016 at 11:38 amThank you Aimee <3
Anna
July 16, 2016 at 2:08 pmThey look and sound terrific! Sorry to hear about your struggles, I hope it all gets better soon. My parents are very much ‘meat and potato’ peeps, but whenever I cook them veggie dinner, they would clean the plates without even knowing that there is no meat in their food! :)
Sarah
July 18, 2016 at 3:20 pmI wish my parents were like that! Especially my dad, he’s not the biggest vegetable fan, unless it’s potatoes ;)
Ashlae
July 17, 2016 at 8:58 pm1) Why have I never heard of brown rice tortillas and 2) WHERE HAVE GREEN GODDESS QUESADILLAS BEEN MY ENTIRE LIFE? But really, crossing my fingers you get all your digestive struggles sorted soon. I dealt with that sort of thing for 3-4 years before *finally* finding something that worked for me. Hoping the same for you, babe. <3
Sarah
July 18, 2016 at 3:22 pmThank you so much, Ashlae, I hope things sort themselves out soon. I’m super curious to hear what worked for you though, I’m sending you an email now!
Amy | The Whole Food Rainbow
July 18, 2016 at 11:00 amHey Sarah! I feel you I really do and sending out a massive cyber hug to you sweetheart. Hang on in there okay! Well and Full is a stunning blog, what you share is wonderful Lots of love xx.
Sarah
July 18, 2016 at 3:23 pmThank you so much for the virtual hug, Amy, it means so much to me <3 Hope you have a wonderful week.
Ana
July 31, 2016 at 1:45 pmHi Sarah, I love this Green Goddess Quesadillas recipe! And the name of it too :) Healthy, light and super yummy and the avocado dressing looks awesome. Hope your tummy gets better, as it can totally hinder mood and motivation I feel, and in my experience as well … I feel best when vegetables and fruits are the main things I eat. And I also try and consume plenty of water throughout the day, to help keep and stay hydrated. Totally love this recipe :)
Sarah
August 1, 2016 at 12:29 pmThank you so much for your note, Ana! I’m really glad you like the recipe :) These are all great tips… I definitely have to be better about my water consumption, I know I don’t drink enough! Thanks for the advice! :D