Veggie Pizza Pinwheels are fun bites filled with colorful veggies and cheesy goodness. They’re perfect for a snack or a party treat that everyone will enjoy!
Who knew pizza could roll up so nicely? I love making these with my kids; it’s like creating our own tasty art. Plus, they are super easy to whip up! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This is the go-to cheese for delicious stretch and melt. If you need a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese shreds which can work well in this recipe.
Cream Cheese: The creamy base adds rich flavor. If you’re looking for lighter options, use low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt. Both add creaminess without all the fat.
Flour Tortillas: I prefer large flour tortillas for a perfect wrap. Whole wheat tortillas offer a healthier twist, or corn tortillas work too if you’re gluten-free, but they may be a bit more delicate.
Veggies: The veggies add crunch and nutrition. Feel free to swap in whatever you have; zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms are great alternatives. Just be sure to chop them finely for easy rolling.
How Do I Roll the Tortillas Without Breaking Them?
Rolling the tortillas tightly is key to keeping your pinwheels intact. Here’s how to do this without breaking them:
- Warm the tortillas slightly in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. This makes them easier to roll.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly to the edges, but leave a little space to help seal the tortilla.
- Start rolling from one edge, applying gentle pressure as you go to keep it tight.
- Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; practice makes it easier!
Following these tips will give you beautiful pinwheels ready for any occasion! Enjoy!
Veggie Pizza Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 3 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup diced tomato
- 1/4 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots or finely chopped carrots
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray (optional, for baking sheet)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 12-15 minutes to bake. So in about 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious Veggie Pizza Pinwheels ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing the Filling:
In a medium bowl, take your softened cream cheese and add the shredded mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix it all together until everything is nice and smooth. This will be the delicious filling for your pinwheels!
3. Assembling the Pinwheels:
Now, lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread that creamy cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla all the way to the edges. This ensures every bite is cheesy and tasty!
4. Adding the Veggies:
Next, sprinkle a colorful mix of the diced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, tomato, broccoli, corn, and shredded carrots evenly over the cheese layer. Look at all those beautiful colors!
5. Rolling It Up:
Carefully start rolling the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other, forming a log shape. Make sure you roll it as tight as you can without squishing the filling out. Repeat this with the other tortillas and the filling.
6. Cutting the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pinwheel slices. You should get around 8-10 delightful pinwheels from each tortilla. Place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each pinwheel.
7. Baking Time:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let the pinwheels bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are golden and the cheese is nice and melted!
8. Cooling and Serving:
Once they are out of the oven, let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes. Then they are ready to be served! Enjoy your colorful, cheesy veggie pizza pinwheels as a fun appetizer, a tasty snack, or a delightful party treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortillas?
Absolutely! While flour tortillas are the most common choice, you can use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option or corn tortillas if you’re gluten-free. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas may be more fragile when rolling.
How Can I Customize the Veggies?
Feel free to get creative! You can use any combination of vegetables you love or have on hand. Spinach, zucchini, or artichoke hearts are great additions. Just chop them finely so they roll up nicely!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance! Just assemble the pinwheels, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, slice and bake as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up, keeping that cheesy goodness intact!