Description
These Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls are a savory, plant-based snack or appetizer featuring a soft homemade dough filled with sweet caramelized onions, fresh spinach, and Italian-inspired seasonings. Baked to golden perfection and optionally topped with nutritional yeast, these rolls are perfect for casual gatherings or a delicious on-the-go meal.
Ingredients
Scale
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
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
Topping (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Caramelize Onions: While the dough rises, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until they become golden brown and sweetly caramelized.
- Cook Spinach and Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season the mixture with dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Roll and Fill Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle approximately 12×16 inches. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, then layer the caramelized onion and spinach mixture over the sauce.
- Shape Rolls: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 8-10 even rolls. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls loosely and let them rise for an additional 20-30 minutes until slightly puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Topping and Serve: If desired, sprinkle nutritional yeast on top of the warm rolls for a cheesy, savory flavor. Serve warm as a delightful vegan snack or meal accompaniment.
Notes
- You can substitute spinach with kale for a different leafy green flavor.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder roll.
- Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy taste but can be left out or replaced with vegan cheese.
- Make sure the water for the yeast is warm but not hot, around 105-110°F, to properly activate the yeast.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Keywords: Vegan pizza rolls, caramelized onion recipe, spinach pizza rolls, savory vegan appetizer, homemade pizza rolls, plant-based snack