Veggie Pizza Pinwheels are fun and colorful snacks perfect for any party! Made with creamy cheese, fresh veggies, and tasty pizza sauce, they roll up into delicious bites.
These pinwheels are not only easy to make but also a hit at gatherings. I love to add a sprinkle of Italian herbs to make them even yummier—plus, they disappear fast! 🍕✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: I like using large flour tortillas for their flexibility. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat or spinach tortillas are great substitutes!
Cream Cheese: The cream cheese gives a nice creamy texture. For a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re vegan.
Pizza Sauce: Pizza sauce adds a tangy flavor. You can use marinara sauce or even pesto for a different twist. Homemade sauce is also an option if you’re feeling adventurous!
Veggies: Bell peppers and onions add crunch. Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, like zucchini or shredded carrots. Frozen mixed veggies work well too—just thaw and chop!
Cheeses: Mozzarella is key for that cheesy pull, but feel free to mix it up with cheddar or goat cheese. If you’re avoiding dairy, try non-dairy cheese alternatives.
How Do I Roll the Tortillas Without Breaking Them?
Rolling tortillas tightly without breaking can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you get it right!
- Use room temperature tortillas; they are more pliable than cold ones.
- Don’t overfill! A thin layer of filling works best.
- Start rolling from one edge and keep the roll tight as you go—think of it as rolling a burrito.
- Pinch the seam closed gently to seal your pinwheel.
If your tortillas do crack, don’t worry—just wrap them in foil to hold them together while they bake. Enjoy your tasty pinwheels!
How to Make Veggie Pizza Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 1/4 cup finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Fresh spinach leaves (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. If you opt to bake them, you’ll need an extra 10-12 minutes in the oven. So in total, plan for about 30 minutes to make, bake, and serve these delicious pinwheels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by mixing together the softened cream cheese, pizza sauce, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in a medium bowl. Stir everything until it’s smooth and well-combined. This creamy mixture is the base for your pinwheels!
2. Assemble the Pinwheels:
Take one flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread about 1/4 of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla, but be sure to leave about a 1/2 inch border around the edges so that the filling doesn’t spill out when you roll it up.
3. Add the Veggies and Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle about 1/4 of the shredded mozzarella on top of the cream cheese layer. Next, scatter your finely chopped red and green bell peppers, red onion, diced tomatoes, black olives, broccoli, and spinach over the cheese. Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
4. Roll It Up:
Now, carefully roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other, forming a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal it well. Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas and filling.
5. Slice and Serve:
Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on a lined baking sheet or a serving platter. If you’d like to serve them cold, they are delicious just as they are! But if you prefer them warm and melty, you can proceed to the next step.
6. Optional Baking:
For a warm version, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and bake them for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly golden. This step adds a lovely crunch and warmth to your pinwheels!
7. Enjoy!
Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. They make colorful, tasty finger foods perfect for snacks, parties, or lunchboxes. Dive in and enjoy your delicious Veggie Pizza Pinwheels!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling to your liking. You can use any fresh vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, carrots, or even artichoke hearts. Just make sure to chop them finely for easier rolling!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance! Just roll them up, slice them, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh, and you can enjoy them cold or reheat them just before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or bake them for 5-7 minutes in a preheated oven until they’re warm and cheesy again.
Can I Freeze Veggie Pizza Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze them! After slicing, place the pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for about 1-2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as preferred.