Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe
These Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls are a delicious, plant-based appetizer or snack featuring a soft, homemade dough filled with sweet caramelized onions, fresh spinach, and a flavorful blend of garlic and herbs. Baked to golden perfection, these pizza rolls offer a satisfying savory bite that’s perfect for parties, casual meals, or anytime you crave a comforting yet healthy treat.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 pizza rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead the ingredients into a smooth, elastic dough for about 8 to 10 minutes. Cover the dough and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Caramelize Onions: While the dough rises, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally for 15 to 20 minutes, until they become golden brown and caramelized, developing a rich, sweet flavor.
- Cook Spinach Mixture: Add minced garlic, fresh spinach, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the caramelized onions. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the rolls from sticking during baking.
- Roll Out Dough and Add Filling: On a floured surface, roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, then layer the cooled spinach and onion mixture on top.
- Form Pizza Rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log shape. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 10 to 12 even rolls. Place the rolls cut side up in the greased baking dish, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the rolls with nutritional yeast if desired for a cheesy flavor boost. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pizza rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly to set the filling and make them easier to handle. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure the water used for activating the yeast is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Caramelizing onions slowly over low heat brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Spinach should be cooked just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Nutritional yeast is optional but adds a cheesy flavor and extra nutrients, perfect for vegan dishes.
- If you prefer, you can add other herbs or spices to the filling according to your taste.
- These pizza rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Keywords: Vegan pizza rolls, caramelized onion recipe, spinach pizza rolls, plant-based appetizer, homemade pizza dough
