As I pulled the first batch of Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls from the oven, the aroma filled my kitchen, taking me back to cozy gatherings with friends. These delightful rolls combine sweet caramelized onions and vibrant spinach, all wrapped in golden dough and paired with a tangy marinara dip. With simple, wholesome ingredients, they’re not just a treat; they’re a versatile crowd-pleaser perfect for parties or a comforting evening snack. Plus, they make for an excellent meal prep option, leaving you with delicious leftovers for the week! Ready to bring this savory plant-based delight into your kitchen? Let’s get rolling!
Why are these pizza rolls a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweetness of caramelized onions combined with earthy spinach creates a flavor explosion that caters to both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Easy to Make: With just a few basic steps, you’ll have homemade rolls ready for the oven, perfect for home cooks of any skill level.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether enjoyed as an appetizer at a gathering or a cozy snack during movie night, these rolls are bound to impress.
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix it up with different fillings; try adding mushrooms or using kale for a fresh twist! If you enjoy these, you might also want to check out my French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes for another delightful twist!
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch, freeze them, and always have a tasty meal option on hand.
Comfort Food Redefined: These rolls deliver that guilty pleasure we crave, making them both satisfying and guilt-free, perfect for any time of day!
Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
- Active Dry Yeast – This is the leavening agent that helps the dough rise beautifully.
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast for a successful rise.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and improves the texture of your dough.
- Sugar – Feeds the yeast for better rising; can be omitted for a low-sugar diet.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor; don’t skip this step!
For the Filling
- Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling; caramelizing brings out the flavors.
- Spinach – Offers great nutrition and color; if using frozen, thaw and squeeze any excess moisture.
- Minced Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor into the filling.
- Nutritional Yeast – Optional, but gives a cheesy taste without dairy—perfect for vegan caramelized onion & spinach pizza rolls!
For Assembly
- Marinara Sauce – Adds moisture and tang; opt for a thick, well-seasoned brand to avoid sogginess.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from creating these mouthwatering Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a separate bowl, mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then knead until smooth. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough rises, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 sliced yellow onion and sauté for 15–20 minutes until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves and 4 cups of fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts—around 2–3 minutes. If using, stir in 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, mix well, and set the filling aside to cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Spread the cooled filling evenly over the dough, leaving the edges clear. Starting from one end, gently roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Cut the log into 1-inch pieces to form individual rolls and place them seam-side down on a greased baking dish.
Step 4: Second Rise
Cover the assembled pizza rolls with a clean kitchen towel and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes in a warm area. This second rise will make your Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls light and fluffy.
Step 5: Bake
After the second rise, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The rolls should turn golden brown and puffed up, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy the delightful flavors of your Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain their freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze the rolls before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the vegan caramelized onion & spinach pizza rolls, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the pizza rolls in advance and refrigerate overnight before baking for a convenient meal prep option!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time when you need it most! You can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours in advance by assembling them and covering them with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality, ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge, allow them to rise for about 30 minutes at room temperature, and then pop them in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked pizza rolls that are just as delicious as if you made them from scratch that day!
Expert Tips for Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls
Caramelizing Onions: Cook onions on low heat to develop a rich flavor; stirring too frequently can prevent proper caramelization.
Avoid Dough Stickiness: Make sure to keep an eye on your dough height while rising; adjust flour to maintain the right consistency for the vegan caramelized onion & spinach pizza rolls.
Tight Rolling: Roll the dough tightly when assembling to ensure the filling stays secure during baking and each bite is flavorful.
Prep Ahead: For convenience, you can prepare the rolls the night before; just refrigerate them after shaping and let them rise before baking.
Check for Golden Brown: The perfect bake is achieving a golden hue; undercooking can lead to a doughy texture, while overcooking dries them out.
What to Serve with Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls
Nothing complements the warm, savory flavor of these delightful pizza rolls quite like a thoughtfully curated selection of sides and drinks to elevate your meal experience.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the rolls.
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Garlic Roasted Vegetables: The sweetness of roasted carrots and bell peppers enhances the caramelized onions’ flavor, bringing a wholesome element to the table.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: A luscious dip of mashed avocado, lemon juice, and spices creates a rich, creamy counterpart that beautifully contrasts the fluffy rolls.
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Italian Minestrone Soup: A hearty vegetable soup packs a punch of flavor and warmth, making it a cozy side perfect for dunking those delicious pizza rolls.
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Red Wine Spritzer: Light and refreshing, this fizzy drink balances the savory notes with its fruity brightness, making it ideal for pairing with your rolls.
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Vegan Potato Wedges: Crispy skin and fluffy interiors of seasoned potato wedges bring a comforting touch, perfect for dipping into marinara sauce alongside the rolls.
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Zucchini Noodles: A light and healthy option, lightly sautéed zucchini noodles drizzled with olive oil can add an elegant touch to your meal while keeping it plant-based.
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Lemon Sorbet: End the meal on a sweet, zesty note with a scoop of lemon sorbet, providing a refreshing palate cleanser after the savory pizza rolls.
Each of these pairings complements the Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls perfectly, turning a delightful snack into a heartwarming meal.
Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls Variations
Feel free to make these delicious pizza rolls your own, exploring different flavors and textures that delight your taste buds!
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Kale Swap: Replace spinach with kale for a heartier, nutrient-rich option that still delivers fantastic flavor.
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Mushroom Medley: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy taste and meaty texture; a umami twist to every bite accentuates the filling.
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Spiced Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the filling for a spicy kick that adds depth and warmth.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or oregano into your filling for a flavorful burst of freshness—perfect for your herb garden’s bounty!
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate vegan cream cheese or a handful of vegan mozzarella for a creamy filling that melts beautifully.
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Store-Bought Dough: Short on time? Use pre-made vegan dough; it saves you time while still delivering on taste, especially on busy weeknights.
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Variety of Sauces: Experiment with different types of marinara sauce or even pesto for varied flavor profiles; each sauce brings a unique twist to the rolls.
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Sweet Onion Add: For an extra layer of sweetness, consider using roasted sweet onions instead of yellow onion. The caramelization will make the rolls wonderfully sweet and irresistible—perfect if you enjoy a sweeter undertone!
As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out my Salmon Spinach Pasta or experiment with a twist on another classic, like Golden Onion Butter Rice. Happy cooking!
Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of onions should I use for the filling?
I recommend using yellow onions for their natural sweetness, which caramelizes beautifully. Sweet onions can also work well if you’re looking for an even sweeter flavor profile. Just remember to cook them on low heat to develop that rich, deep caramelization.
How should I store leftover pizza rolls?
You can store leftover Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will help keep them fresh and tasty for snacking or reheating!
Can I freeze these pizza rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the rolls either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just bake straight from the freezer; increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
A sticky dough is often a sign that either too much moisture was added or not enough flour during mixing. If this happens, gradually sprinkle in extra flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, workable consistency. Keep kneading until the dough is no longer sticking to your fingers.
Are these rolls suitable for people with gluten allergies?
You can definitely make these Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help maintain the dough’s structure while still delivering that delightful, fluffy texture we’re aiming for.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time! Cook the caramelized onions and spinach mixture, then let it cool before refrigerating it. Just ensure you reheat the filling slightly before using it so that it blends well with the dough when assembling the rolls.
Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls: A Cozy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead until smooth.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add sliced onion, and sauté for 15-20 minutes until caramelized.
- Add minced garlic and fresh spinach, cooking until wilted, around 2-3 minutes. Stir in nutritional yeast if using, and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Spread the filling evenly, leaving edges clear.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end into a log, then cut into 1-inch pieces. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Cover with a towel and allow to rise for an additional 30 minutes in a warm area.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
- Let cool for about 5 minutes, then serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
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