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Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe

4.6 from 103 reviews

These Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls are a delicious, plant-based twist on classic pizza flavors, wrapped in soft, homemade dough. Featuring sweet caramelized onions, fresh spinach, and a touch of garlic and marinara sauce, these rolls are perfect as a savory snack or appetizer, baked until golden and topped optionally with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

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

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast with warm water and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until it doubles in size.
  3. Caramelize Onions: While the dough is rising, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes until they are golden and caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness.
  4. Cook Spinach Mixture: Add minced garlic, fresh spinach, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes to the caramelized onions. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool.
  5. Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
  6. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a large rectangle shape suitable for rolling.
  7. Assemble Rolls: Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, then distribute the cooled spinach and onion mixture on top.
  8. Shape Rolls: Starting from the long side of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Slice the roll into 10 to 12 individual rolls and arrange them in the greased baking dish.
  9. Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the rolls with nutritional yeast if using, to add a cheesy flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown.
  10. Cool and Serve: Allow the pizza rolls to cool slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Warm water for the yeast should be between 100°F to 110°F to ensure yeast activation without killing it.
  • You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though the texture may be denser.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the marinara sauce before spreading.
  • These pizza rolls can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Vegan pizza rolls, caramelized onion pizza rolls, spinach pizza rolls, vegan appetizer, homemade pizza rolls, plant-based snacks