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With Salt and Wit

Laugh Often. Eat Well.

3 November 17, 2014 Appetizers

Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner!

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner!” alt=”alt description” />

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner! #healthy #leftovers #turkey #quesadilla

Do you ever have those moments when you just think your work “isn’t good enough”? When you think everyone else is having “it click” for them?

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner! #healthy #leftovers #turkey #quesadilla

I am guilty of being overly hard on my work and myself. Often I am adding more stress to my life when it is simply not needed nor justified. I am responsible for making my to do list far too long when there not enough time in the day. I love to think I can handle it all, when in reality, it is far from that.

Blogging is by far the hardest, yet most rewarding career I have ever embarked on. I became my own boss and started to chase a dream of sharing my love of creativity and food with the world. Yet, most days, my stomach is in knots because I continually think that ‘I can do better’. Between my recipes not being imaginative enough, my photography not comparing to others and to seeing my ‘behind the scenes’ as a total mess.   When in all reality, we are comparing our behind the scenes, to others showpieces, their perfectly edited reel.

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner! #healthy #leftovers #turkey #quesadilla

Before I started this blog, I had never picked up a DSLR camera. Never really spent time making my food look photo worthy, certainly didn’t know one thing about editing photos and coding a website was a completely different language. The last one, pretty much still is.

Lately, I have been overly stressed that I am not living up to my expectations, when in all reality, those expectations are unrealistic. I am a rookie trying to play in the big leagues. I have no formal training (besides culinary school) with photography or how to run a website. I get overly frustrated far too easily and worry that my work is just not up to par.

My husband reminds me every time I fly off the handle and start crying that my photos stink, that I am not going to be perfect today and definitely not tomorrow, but I am learning. I am giving it my heart that that is what matters. I have come a long, long way from my first post given my circumstances of working and planning a wedding full time for the first year of blogging. Now that I have dedicated time, I am able to improve yet I still get lost in the social media vortex and forget to spend time on myself, and trying to improve my food styling, my photography, editing capabilities and my writing. I forget that if I just spend time improving the core of this blog, that the rest will come easier.

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner! #healthy #leftovers #turkey #quesadilla

Being your own boss is a double edge sword. It has its wonderful moments when I can call the shots on which days I take as vacation but I also am my hardest critic. And for someone that attempts to ‘be it all’, it can become daunting.

So what does this all have to do with quesadilla’s? Well, beyond the fact that these are top notch delicious, this is a prime example of being my own critic. I recently finally upgraded my camera lens to a 50 mm 1.8 and I am currently getting familiar with it. Which means, there are going to be some less than perfect photos. Hence these. I have realized that an aperture of 1.8 is wayyyyyy to low, resulting in too much bokeh, or blur. And I am still learning my way around Photoshop and Lightroom to make my photos look they way I have envisioned them.

After a small temper tantrum and a few venting sessions, I am realizing that my work isn’t going to be perfect, no matter hard I try. With every new adventure there is a learning curve.

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner! #healthy #leftovers #turkey #quesadilla

But I can tell you, even though these photos are not my favorite, I assure you, this quesadilla will not disappoint. After falling in love with Panera’s Turkey and Artichoke Panini, I know what you need to do with all the leftover turkey that we will all have after Thanksgiving next week. It comes together in a flash and is perfect for an appetizer during the big football game, or a light dinner paired with a side salad. With two times the gooey cheese, cream cheese and smoked gouda, a bit of salty artichokes and crisp red pepper, they most definitely make your mouth water.

With every new hobby, there is a learning curve and despite the perfectionist in me, I am embracing my imperfections as that means I am still trying in this crazy thing we call life. But one thing I can get behind and be overly excited about, are these quesadillas.

So the day after thanksgiving, turn on some football and relax with a meal that is sure to please!

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner! #healthy #leftovers #turkey #quesadilla

Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas

These Smoked Gouda & Turkey Artichoke Quesadillas come together quickly using leftover turkey, two types of cheese, red peppers and artichokes! They are a delicious and easy appetizer or light dinner!

10 minPrep Time

10 minCook Time

20 minTotal Time

Yields 4

Author:

Megan

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 heaping cups baby spinach
  • 1/2 cup diced artichoke hearts
  • 1 1/2 cups leftover diced turkey
  • 3 oz low fat cream cheese, cubed
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 tsp pepper
  • 4 - 10 in flour tortillas
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup smoked gouda

Instructions

  1. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Swirl around to heat then add the diced red pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until softened.
  2. Add the spinach and stir around to cook down. Once it starts to wilt, add the artichokes, turkey, cream cheese, salt and pepper. Mix well then remove from heat and add to a bowl. Set to the side and keep warm by placing a towel over it or place in oven.
  3. Wipe out the sauté pan with a paper towel and heat over medium heat. Add half the butter and melt. Once melted, add one of the tortillas. Layer with 2 tbsp gouda, and a heaping 1/2 cup of the turkey mixture, 2 tbsp more gouda and another tortilla. Press together. By the time you are done layering, the bottom will start to crisp up. Check to see if the tortilla is golden brown. If it is, then it's time to flip. Press together with a spatula or your hand, carefully flip then cook for 4-5 minutes to allow the other side to crisp and the cheese to completely melt. Remove from the heat and to a large cutting board. Cut into 4 triangles and serve immediately.
7.8.1.2
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https://withsaltandwit.com/smoked-gouda-turkey-artichoke-quesadillas/

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Mango, Black Bean & BBQ Chicken Rice Lettuce Bowls with Chile Lime Vinaigrette are a quick meal filled with fruit, spice and so many flavors!

Mango, Black Bean & BBQ Chicken Rice Lettuce Bowls with Chile Lime Vinaigrette

If you make this recipe, make sure to snap a photo and hashtag it #HOUSEWIFEINTRAININGFILES. I’d love to see what you are cooking up in your kitchen!

3

Categories: Appetizers Tags: appetizer, artichokes, cheese, cream cheese, dinner, gouda, healthy, leftovers, quesadilla, red peppers, spinach, tortillas, turkey

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Sarah @ SnixyKitchen says

    November 17, 2014 at 4:20 am

    This recipe sounds like everything I need in my life - artichokes are my all-time favorite food (so much so that I named my cat after them!). I really resonate with the sentence "I am not going to be perfect today and definitely not tomorrow, but I am learning." I have to remind myself of that EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Reminding myself to have a growth mindset - I will get better, but there's always more I can do. Congrats on the new lens, Megan!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 7:26 am

      Oh how funny!! What a great name of a kitty :) And I think your photos are phenomenal!! Love them, especially the ones for the chickpea pasta. Gorgeous! And why do we have to be so hard on ourselves?! Rather look how far we have come and just be proud we are even trying?! Thanks so much for stopping by Sarah!
      Reply
  2. Sara @ Bitz & Giggles says

    November 17, 2014 at 6:03 am

    Megan, first of all. . .stop being so hard on yourself! I know we bloggers are perfectionists, but the worst thing you can do is compare yourself to someone else. Your work is wonderful and unique and these quesadillas follow suit! What a great way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 7:27 am

      Oh thank you so much! I really appreciate it :) And now i just hope to have some turkey day leftovers just so I can have these again :)
      Reply
  3. Taylor @ Food Faith Fitness says

    November 17, 2014 at 6:57 am

    LOVE this post girlfriend. I struggle with all the same things, but you know that ;) These photos are great girl...I mean, I wanna jump in and eat ALL the quesadillas, so you did your duty :) Pinned!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 7:23 am

      Thanks so much lady!! I hate that we are so hard on our work when we are the only ones that view it as that. But thank you again . Muah!
      Reply
  4. Beth @ The First Year says

    November 17, 2014 at 7:04 am

    You and me.. we're twins because I have been experiencing all of the same feelings lately. I think you are great, keep doing what you love!!!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 7:20 am

      Thank you so much, Beth! Its such a shame because we don't see what others do! I love your work so keep on it ;)
      Reply
  5. Jocelyn @BruCrew Life says

    November 17, 2014 at 8:13 am

    First of all, these quesadillas look amazing! I love the flavor combos. Second, don't give up and definitely don't do the comparison game. So not worth it! Just keep doing what you do best and it will come. Third...I just got the 50 mm lens too...and I hate it. For some reason I cannot get a clear picture to save my life. So to combat that stress, I went back to my 35 mm for now. One day I'll master that 50 mm, but probably not until the holidays are over ;-)
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 12:41 pm

      Thank you Jocelyn!! And I appreciate your sweet words. SO true not to do the comparison game. Its not a even playing field so why try?! And I have never had a 35mm either just a zooms lens that I was use to but so unreliable. Hopefully I get the hang of it! Thanks for stopping by ;)
      Reply
  6. Phi @ The Sweetphi Blog says

    November 17, 2014 at 8:30 am

    What a heart felt post girl! I think you're big league and your photos and recipes are gorgeous :) I too struggle with comparison and setting crazy expectations of myself, so I'm here for you whatever you need! Your hubby sounds like such a great support system, and these quesadillas look fantastic! I also just got that lens and it's quite the learning experience!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 12:40 pm

      Oh you are so sweet! Thank you so much Phi! Why do you be so hard on ourselves?! And good luck with that new lens! ;)
      Reply
  7. Kristi @ Inspiration Kitchen says

    November 17, 2014 at 8:34 am

    Megan, these seriously look amazing. I am so pinning these to multiple boards! YUM!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 12:39 pm

      Oh thank you so much Kristi! I appreciate it :)
      Reply
  8. Melanie | Melanie Makes says

    November 17, 2014 at 9:31 am

    Can I come over for a pep talk and lunch? You're pretty good at both of those things if I do say!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 12:39 pm

      yes please! I would love that :) Thanks Melanie!
      Reply
  9. Patricia @ Grab a Plate says

    November 17, 2014 at 9:35 am

    This sounds great -- love the flavors! I have so many recipes with images that don't look so great, but taste amazing! Keep up the good work!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 12:39 pm

      Well thank you so much Patricia!
      Reply
  10. Sheena @ Hot Eats and Cool Reads says

    November 17, 2014 at 9:38 am

    This recipe sounds like quesadilla heaven! Delicious! Pinning!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 12:37 pm

      It most definitely is! Thank you Sheena!
      Reply
  11. Jessica | Saucy Pear says

    November 17, 2014 at 2:42 pm

    1) Quesadilla heaven. Seriously love. The End. 2) I started my blog 4 years ago and promptly shut it down when I got a handful of visitors because of all the insecurities you mentioned here. This time, I went with the "get a little better every day" philosophy which is crazy hard. Ladies like you help me feel less bad about my perfectionist tendencies so thank you! 3) Yay for the lens. You'll love it (eventually :) )
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 4:52 pm

      Oh thank you such much Jessica! I remember you telling me that at ChoppedCon. I am so glad you decided to give it another try. It is so hard to see the good in our work, rather we see all the bad. We need to stop that! And thank you so much for letting me know I am not the only one. :)
      Reply
  12. Jennifer @ Show Me the Yummy says

    November 17, 2014 at 2:51 pm

    I can definitely relate!! But you're doing SUCH an amazing job...your photos are beautiful and I love all the recipes you post :) Keep it up! Woot woot!!!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 17, 2014 at 4:53 pm

      Oh Jennifer, thanks so much! Glad to know people are loving them despite what I think :)
      Reply
  13. Alaina {Fabtastic Eats} says

    November 17, 2014 at 4:59 pm

    oh man, this post hit home. I can relate on every single level. it's really hard, and time management is the hardest. & constantly having to teach yourself or learn something new about this blogging world on almost a daily basis, it can be completely overwhelming. easier said than done, I know, but try not to get down on yourself! you're photos are beautiful, your recipes are amazing, and I love reading your posts. The work you put into this blog, definitely shows! Keep your head up lady! xo p.s. i looooove this quesadilla..I always forget about smoked gouda, but it's heaven!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 18, 2014 at 11:54 am

      Oh the management part! I feel like I am chicken with my head cut off most days! But thank you so much for coming and letting me know I am not alone. I truly appreciate it! And smoked gouda FTW! Thanks beautiful!
      Reply
  14. Kelly - A Side of Sweet says

    November 17, 2014 at 8:12 pm

    TURKEY quesadillas? Genius and perfectly seasonal. Love it!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 18, 2014 at 11:54 am

      Right?! Thanks Kelly!
      Reply
  15. Nancy P.@thebittersideofsweet says

    November 17, 2014 at 8:39 pm

    I think you have describe just about what every blogger goes through at some point. And I echo what others say, do not compare. Look at others for learning purposes but do not compare! I love eating quesadillas at home so these are perfect for me!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 18, 2014 at 11:54 am

      I am glad I am not alone! Thanks so much Nancy!
      Reply
  16. Andi @ The Weary Chef says

    November 17, 2014 at 9:22 pm

    I really relate to this post, Meg. I feel like a total hack most days, like I don't really know what I'm doing in the kitchen or behind the camera. It's hard to not constantly compare yourself to others, and I think most of us bloggers are perfectionists, which doesn't help. I think your posts and photos are amazing, and I know many of us look up to YOU! As for this quesadilla, besides the fact that I want to eat a very tall stack of them, I really like the photos! I think using a wide aperture can create some really cool photos like these. They aren't wrong, just maybe a different style than you were expecting. The photos make my mouth water, so I call that a success! xo
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 18, 2014 at 11:53 am

      Well thank you for letting me know I am not alone with feeling lost! And you are so sweet. Thanks for putting a smile on my face today!
      Reply
  17. Ginny McMeans says

    November 17, 2014 at 10:49 pm

    It is so funny that before I started reading I was admiring how beautiful your colors were in your first photo. I do the same thing to myself about my photography. I will be holding back a recipe because I think I will remake it and do 'better' photos. Then I don't have the time so I put it on the blog and it turns out to be one of my most popular posts. We just have to let go and relax. Your quesadillas and photos look great!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 18, 2014 at 11:52 am

      Oh no way?! Well I appreciate that so much Ginny. And isn't it funny that no one else's sees what we see? Tough for sure. So Thank you so much!!
      Reply
  18. Heather @ Sugar Dish Me says

    November 18, 2014 at 5:06 am

    I think we all feel that way all the time! It's the nature of the beast. My vote is for all of us to make some pomegranate margaritas and freaking chill -- you bring the quesadillas to snack on!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 18, 2014 at 11:51 am

      OH I love your idea! Thanks so much Heather!
      Reply
  19. Chloe Crabtree says

    November 20, 2014 at 6:51 pm

    First, I found your blog through The Weekend Social link party. Now, I think I could have written a lot of what you wrote here. I even find myself saying to myself, look how many comments you have, you must have way more followers than I do. What are you doing right that I am not doing. What can I do to get more readers and get more interaction from my readers. Alas, all we do is just keep working to try and get better. I know my photography has improved, but has a long way to go, my recipes and parties and tablescapes could be better...but I just keep working. With that said, I came because I saw your quesadilla and I think it sounds delicious! I am pinning it and saving it to my recipe file! Keep smiling and have a Happy Thanksgiving!
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 21, 2014 at 7:24 am

      Well welcome! And secondly, thank you for the thoughtful response! We all have to remember we are in the crazy race with ourself and we can only be better than the person we were yesterday! Happy Thanksgiving to you as well!
      Reply
  20. Joann says

    November 22, 2014 at 10:28 am

    These look absolutely deeelish and family friendly!! Thanks for sharing on Show Stopper Saturday  :-)
    Reply
    • Meg says

      November 22, 2014 at 4:17 pm

      Well thank you Joann for stopping by and I agree! I have my eye on so many delicious recipes!
      Reply

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Hi There!

I'm Megan! A wife, mama and have a serious love of nutritious, time-saving meals with a knack for meal prep hacks. I crave simple, wholesome and balanced meals with a bit of humor on the side! Welcome to my kitchen. Read More…

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All Images and content are © With Salt and Wit. Please do not republish without prior consent. If you wish to share a recipe, please simply rewrite the directions, in your own words, with your own photos, and link back to the specific post to provide credit. If you have any questions or wish to republish anything, please contact me: megan {at} withsaltandwit {dot} com

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