Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels are a colorful, fun, and healthy appetizer or snack perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or anytime you want to enjoy fresh vegetables in a delicious way. Made with a creamy spread and an assortment of crunchy vegetables, all rolled up in soft tortillas, these pinwheels are as beautiful as they are tasty. They’re easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and endlessly customizable.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
flour tortillasoftened cream cheese (or hummus for a dairy-free option)ranch seasoning mix (optional)red bell pepperyellow bell peppercarrots (shredded)cucumber (julienned)purple cabbage (shredded)spinach leaves
directions
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese with ranch seasoning (if using) and mix until smooth.
Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over each one.
Layer the vegetables evenly across the tortillas, placing them in rows for a rainbow effect: red bell pepper, carrots, yellow bell pepper, cucumber, purple cabbage, and spinach.
Tightly roll up each tortilla, starting from one end to the other, to form a log.
Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Remove from the fridge and slice into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife.
Arrange on a platter and serve chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 24 pinwheels.Preparation time: 20 minutesChill time: 30 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes
Variations
Use flavored tortillas like spinach or sun-dried tomato for extra color and taste.
Swap the cream cheese for hummus or mashed avocado for a vegan twist.
Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a protein boost.
Sprinkle in some shredded cheese for extra richness.
Include a drizzle of balsamic glaze or vinaigrette for added flavor.
storage/reheating
Store Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Best enjoyed cold; avoid reheating as it may affect the texture of the vegetables and tortilla.
FAQs
Can I make Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to a day in advance. Keep them wrapped tightly and chilled until ready to serve.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely, use any fresh, crunchy vegetables you prefer or have on hand.
Do I have to use cream cheese?
No, you can use hummus, mashed avocado, or a dairy-free spread as an alternative.
How do I prevent them from getting soggy?
Use dry vegetables and pat them dry after washing. Avoid overly wet spreads.
Are these gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free tortillas. All other ingredients can be gluten-free.
Can I freeze them?
Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables will lose their crisp texture when thawed.
How do I cut the pinwheels without squishing them?
Use a very sharp knife and make quick, clean cuts. Chilling them first also helps.
Are they suitable for kids?
Yes, kids love the colorful look and mild flavors.
What if my tortillas crack while rolling?
Slightly warm them in the microwave for 10 seconds to make them more pliable.
Can I use store-bought veggie mix?
Yes, as long as the veggies are fresh and not too watery.
Conclusion
Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels are the perfect blend of nutrition, flavor, and visual appeal. They’re simple to make, easy to customize, and sure to impress guests or brighten up any lunchbox. Give this vibrant recipe a try and enjoy the taste of health in every bite.
PrintRainbow Veggie Pinwheels
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rainbow Veggie Pinwheels are colorful, healthy tortilla roll-ups filled with a flavorful cream cheese spread and an assortment of vibrant, crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a light lunch, party appetizer, or kid-friendly snack.
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with ranch seasoning until well combined.
- Lay out each tortilla and spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the surface.
- Evenly distribute the chopped vegetables across each tortilla.
- Roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up for easier slicing.
- Slice into 1-inch pinwheels and serve.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added nutrition.
- You can substitute or add other veggies like spinach or avocado.
- To make ahead, store rolled tortillas in the fridge and slice just before serving.