Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels are a vibrant, healthy snack or appetizer perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make and a fantastic way to add more colorful vegetables to your plate, loved by kids and adults alike.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: Use spinach or regular flour tortillas if you prefer.
- Cream Cheese: Greek yogurt cream cheese or hummus are great dairy-free alternatives.
- Veggies: Get creative! Bell peppers, carrots, spinach, and cucumber are classic, but feel free to add corn, shredded cabbage, or finely diced celery.
Ingredients:
- 4 large whole wheat tortillas
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely diced yellow bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup finely diced cucumber (peeled and deseeded)
- 1/4 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 24 pinwheels (6 per tortilla)
- Calories per serving: Approximately 70-80 calories
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, spatula, sharp knife, cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. This creamy base will hold all your colorful veggies together.
2. Chop Your Veggies
Finely dice all your chosen vegetables: red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, cucumber, shredded carrots, and finely chopped spinach. The key is to chop them very small so they spread evenly and the pinwheels roll up easily.
3. Combine and Mix
Add all the finely chopped vegetables and minced chives (if using) to the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold them in until the veggies are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese. This is where your rainbow comes to life!
4. Spread onto Tortillas
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread about 1/4 of the cream cheese and veggie mixture evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Make sure to spread it from edge to edge for consistent pinwheels.
5. Roll ‘Em Up!
Carefully but tightly roll the tortilla from one end to the other. A tight roll ensures your pinwheels hold their shape and don’t fall apart when sliced. Press gently as you roll.
6. Chill and Slice
Once rolled, place the wrapped tortillas seam-side down on a plate. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow them to firm up; this makes slicing much easier. Once chilled, use a sharp knife to slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. They are best enjoyed chilled. We don’t recommend freezing these as the texture of the vegetables and cream cheese can change upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the veggie cream cheese mixture and spread it on the tortillas up to 24 hours in advance. Roll them tightly and chill. Slice just before serving for the freshest taste.
Q: What if I don’t have all the vegetables?
A: No problem! Use whatever fresh, crisp vegetables you have on hand. The more colors, the better, but any combination will be delicious.
Q: How do I prevent the pinwheels from getting soggy?
A: Make sure your cucumber is peeled and deseeded to remove excess moisture. Also, don’t overload the tortillas with too much filling. Chilling them well before slicing helps too.
Q: Can I use different types of tortillas?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, tomato, or plain flour tortillas work wonderfully. Corn tortillas might be too crumbly to roll tightly.
Q: Are these good for kids’ lunchboxes?
A: Yes, Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels are a fantastic, healthy, and fun addition to any lunchbox! They’re easy for little hands to pick up and enjoy.
Q: Can I add protein to these?
A: For sure! Finely diced cooked chicken, turkey, or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese would be great additions to the cream cheese mixture.