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Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls Recipe

4.9 from 59 reviews

These Vegan Caramelized Onion & Spinach Pizza Rolls are a savory, plant-based treat perfect for snacking or a light meal. Soft homemade dough encases a flavorful filling of sweet caramelized onions, sautéed spinach, garlic, and herbs, all enhanced with a touch of marinara sauce. Finished with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, these handheld rolls deliver a satisfying blend of textures and tastes with every bite.

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

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the olive oil and the activated yeast mixture, then mix until a rough dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  3. Caramelize Onions: While the dough rises, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply golden and caramelized, about 25-30 minutes.
  4. Sauté Spinach and Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the caramelized onions and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then, add fresh spinach in batches, stirring until wilted. Stir in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. Assemble Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 12×14 inches. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, then layer the caramelized onion and spinach mixture on top, leaving a small border around the edges.
  6. Roll and Slice: Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart.
  7. Second Rise: Cover the rolls loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes until slightly puffed.
  8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Optionally sprinkle the rolls with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the pizza rolls to cool for 5 minutes on a wire rack before serving warm. Enjoy as a snack or appetizer!

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, brush the tops of the rolls with a little olive oil before baking.
  • You can substitute marinara sauce with tomato paste mixed with herbs if desired.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • These rolls can be reheated in an oven or air fryer for best texture.

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