Veggie Pizza Pinwheels are fun, tasty snacks that are perfect for any gathering! With a mix of colorful veggies and gooey cheese rolled up in pizza dough, they’re a hit for everyone.
Honestly, these pinwheels are so simple to make! I love to serve them warm with some marinara for dipping. They disappear quickly, and I can hardly keep up! 🍕✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for ease, or make your own if you prefer. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free pizza dough options at the store.
Pizza Sauce: Marinara works perfectly, but if you want a twist, try pesto or white sauce instead. Both add a unique flavor!
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice for that melty goodness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese that melts well.
Veggies: Feel free to swap in any vegetables you love! Spinach, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts make great options. Just chop them finely.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this on hand, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme to create your own blend.
How Do I Roll the Perfect Pinwheel?
Getting a tight roll is crucial for your pinwheels to hold together. Here’s how to do it right:
- After spreading the sauce and filling, start rolling at one long end. Keep it tight but not too tight, or the filling might spill out.
- Use the edges of the dough to guide the roll, tucking as you go.
- If the dough resists, let it rest for a minute before rolling; this relaxes the gluten.
Make sure your pinwheels are evenly sliced for consistent cooking. A sturdy knife or spatula helps keep everything intact!
Enjoy these tips to make your Veggie Pizza Pinwheels a success! Happy cooking! 🌟
Veggie Pizza Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough or 1 batch homemade pizza dough
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped tomato
- 1/4 cup finely chopped black olives
- 1/4 cup finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup sweet corn kernels
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot
- 1 small zucchini, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and an additional 15-20 minutes for baking. Overall, you can have these delicious Veggie Pizza Pinwheels ready in about 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, take a moment to lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper. This keeps your pinwheels from sticking.
2. Rolling Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle that’s about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure it’s even so that the pinwheels cook uniformly.
3. Spreading the Sauce:
Evenly spread the pizza sauce or marinara over the dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges. This prevents the sauce from spilling out when you roll it up.
4. Adding the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over the sauce, making sure to cover the surface well. This cheesy goodness adds flavor and helps hold everything together.
5. Layering the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Distribute your finely chopped vegetables evenly over the cheese. You can really mix and match according to your favorites!
6. Seasoning for Flavor:
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning or oregano over the veggies to add a delicious herby flavor that brings everything together.
7. Rolling the Pinwheel:
Start from one of the long edges, gently rolling the dough into a tight log, enclosing all those tasty fillings inside. Try to keep it tight but not so tight that the filling oozes out.
8. Slicing the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. This helps them cook evenly and look beautiful when served!
9. Setting Up for Baking:
Place the pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow room for expansion while baking.
10. Baking Time!
Bake your pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is nice and melted. Keep an eye on them towards the end!
11. The Final Touch:
Once baked, let the pinwheels cool slightly. They’re best served warm, and you can even provide extra marinara sauce for dipping if you like!
Enjoy these colorful, cheesy, veggie-packed pizza pinwheels as a delicious snack or appetizer! Perfect for parties or a cozy night at home!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Dough?
Absolutely! Whole wheat dough adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option. If you need a gluten-free version, look for a pre-made gluten-free pizza dough or try making your own with a gluten-free flour blend.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm.
Can I Freeze Veggie Pizza Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels! Just slice them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
What Are Some Good Dip Options for These Pinwheels?
Besides marinara sauce, these pinwheels pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy salsa for a little kick. Choose your favorite for a delicious dip!
