Yam & Spinach Quesadillas (Vegan)

A simple plant-based meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and full of nutrients, these Vegan Yam & Spinach Quesadillas check every box and it’s a simple and satisfying recipe we enjoy on repeat. Sweet roasted yams are mashed into a creamy, velvety layer, topped with fresh spinach and melty vegan cheese, then tucked between golden, crispy tortillas for the ultimate comfort food experience—without any dairy or meat.

What makes this dish so satisfying is its balance of textures and flavors. The yams bring natural sweetness and a boost of vitamins, the spinach adds freshness and a vibrant green pop, while the vegan cheese ties everything together with that classic quesadilla indulgence. A quick sear in the skillet turns the tortillas perfectly crisp, creating a handheld meal that’s as fun to eat as it is nourishing.

Served with creamy guacamole on the side and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, these quesadillas become a customizable, crowd-pleasing option for weeknight dinners, casual lunches, or even as a shareable appetizer. Best of all, they come together in under an hour using simple ingredients, making plant-based eating both easy and delicious.

Yam & Spinach Quesadillas

Servings: 4 quesadillas
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Quesadilla Ingredients

• 2 medium yams (about 1 ½ lbs), peeled and cubed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 4 large flour tortillas

• 1 ½ cups vegan shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella-style)

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped

• Hot sauce, for serving

• Guacamole, for serving

Gaucamole Ingredients

• 1 Avocado

• 1/2  jalapeño (or 1 whole depending on the level of spice you like), diced

• 2 Tablespoons yellow onion, thinly diced

• 2 Tablespoons cilantro, chopped

• 1 lime, juiced

• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

Instructions

1. Roast the yams:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed yams on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the yams are fork-tender and lightly caramelized.

2. Prepare the guacamole:

   Halve the avocado and carefully remove the pit. Scoop the insides into a small mixing bowl. Add cilantro, onions, jalapeño, lime juice and salt to the bowl. Using a whisk or fork break the avocado down while combining all the ingredients. Set aside.

3. Mash the yams:
   Transfer the roasted yams to a bowl and mash them with a fork or potato masher until smooth but still a bit textured. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

4. Assemble the quesadillas:
   Lay one flour tortilla on a clean surface. Spread a thick, even layer of mashed yam across the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edge. Sprinkle with vegan cheese and top with a handful of chopped spinach. Place another tortilla on top to sandwich the filling. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

5. Cook the quesadillas:
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Lightly oil the pan if desired. Cook each quesadilla for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy and the vegan cheese has melted.

6. Serve:
   Slice each quesadilla into wedges. Drizzle or serve with your favorite hot sauce and a side of guacamole.

Health and Wellness Benefits of Vegan Yam & Spinach Quesadillas

Vegan yam and spinach quesadillas are not only a flavorful, satisfying plant-based meal, but they also offer a powerful blend of nutrients that support overall health and wellness. By combining roasted yams, fresh spinach, and dairy-free cheese in a warm, crispy tortilla, this dish delivers a variety of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants—all while being completely free of animal products.

The star ingredient, yams, provides complex carbohydrates for long-lasting energy and is naturally rich in fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Unlike refined carbs that can lead to energy crashes, yams release energy slowly, keeping you fuller for longer. They are also an excellent source of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports eye health, skin health, and immune function. In addition, yams offer vitamin C for immune support and potassium, which is essential for healthy blood pressure and heart function. Roasting them with olive oil not only enhances flavor but also adds healthy monounsaturated fats, known for their role in reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health.

Spinach brings its own set of health-promoting properties. Dark leafy greens like spinach are nutrient-dense yet low in calories, making them an ideal choice for a balanced diet. Spinach is particularly high in vitamin K, which plays a critical role in bone health, as well as iron for energy production and magnesium for muscle and nerve function. It’s also rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to support eye health and protect against age-related macular degeneration. Including spinach in a warm, cooked form, as in these quesadillas, may even improve the bioavailability of certain nutrients, such as iron and calcium.

The use of vegan cheese keeps this dish dairy-free, making it suitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or looking to reduce saturated fat from animal sources. Many dairy-free cheeses are now fortified with B12 and calcium, two nutrients that are particularly important on a plant-based diet. While vegan cheese varies in its nutritional profile, many options use heart-healthy oils like coconut or olive oil, providing flavor and creaminess without cholesterol.

Finally, pairing the quesadillas with guacamole adds a boost of healthy fats from avocado, including omega-3 fatty acids that support brain function and reduce inflammation. Avocado also contributes fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, E, and K, making it a nutrient-dense addition to the meal.

Altogether, this dish balances macronutrients—carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a moderate amount of protein from tortillas, vegan cheese, and spinach—with micronutrients that promote energy, immunity, cardiovascular health, and digestive well-being. It’s a satisfying, colorful, and antioxidant-rich meal that supports a wide range of wellness goals, from maintaining a healthy weight to boosting long-term vitality.