Pizza Pinwheels

Pizza Pinwheels Recipe: A Delicious Italian Snack with Marinara Sauce and Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Pizza pinwheels are a fun and delicious twist on traditional pizza. These savory treats are perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun family dinner. With a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings, pizza pinwheels are sure to be a hit with everyone.

History

Pizza pinwheels are a modern take on classic pizza. While the exact origins of this recipe are unknown, it is believed to have been inspired by traditional pizza recipes. The idea of rolling up pizza ingredients into a pinwheel shape likely originated as a creative way to enjoy pizza in a new and exciting way.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (454 g) frozen bread dough, thawed
2 cups marinara sauce
1 medium onion, peeled and thinly sliced
3 medium bell peppers, cored and thinly sliced (green, red, yellow)
1 lb (454 g) part-skim milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
0.5 cup parmesan cheese, shredded

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil.
Divide the dough into 4 balls.
On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a 6-inch circle.
Spoon 0.5 cup of marinara sauce onto each circle and spread it to the edges.
Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Cook the sliced onion and pepper until soft, about 5 minutes.
Set aside to cool.
Layer the cooled vegetables over the dough circles and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Roll each dough circle into a log shape.
Using a serrated knife, cut each log into 6 slices.
Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet and brush them with olive oil.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes.

Variations

Try adding different toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives for a unique flavor twist.
Use different types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or feta for a different taste profile.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as oregano, basil, or red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Thaw the frozen bread dough according to package instructions for best results.

- Be sure to spread the marinara sauce all the way to the edges of the dough to ensure each bite is full of flavor.

- Sautéing the onions and peppers before adding them to the pinwheels helps to enhance their flavor and ensure they are cooked through.

- Brushing the pinwheels with olive oil before baking helps to give them a golden brown crust and adds extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pizza pinwheels can be served as a standalone snack or paired with a side salad for a complete meal. They are also great for dipping in marinara sauce or ranch dressing.

Cooking Techniques

Rolling out the dough into a thin circle ensures that the pinwheels bake evenly and have a crispy crust.

- Sautéing the onions and peppers before adding them to the pinwheels helps to soften them and bring out their flavor.

- Brushing the pinwheels with olive oil before baking helps to give them a golden brown crust and adds extra flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have frozen bread dough, you can use store-bought pizza dough or make your own from scratch.

- Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.

Make Ahead Tips

Pizza pinwheels can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes them a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the pizza pinwheels on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese for an attractive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pizza pinwheels pair well with a variety of beverages such as beer, wine, or soda. They also go well with a side salad or vegetable dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover pizza pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of pizza pinwheels contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of pizza pinwheels contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of pizza pinwheels contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of pizza pinwheels contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pizza pinwheels are a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Pizza pinwheels contain wheat, dairy, and soy.

Summary

Pizza pinwheels are a tasty and satisfying snack or meal option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They also offer a variety of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for any occasion.

Summary

Pizza pinwheels are a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings, these savory treats are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you're hosting a party, watching the big game, or just looking for a fun and easy meal idea, pizza pinwheels are a great choice.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Pizza Pinwheels tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. She was known for her delicious Italian dishes, and I had always admired her culinary skills. As I flipped through the pages of the cookbook, my mouth watered at the thought of sinking my teeth into these savory, cheesy pinwheels.

Mrs. Jenkins had always been a source of inspiration for me when it came to cooking. She had a way of infusing love and passion into every dish she made, and I was determined to replicate her magic in my own kitchen. So, armed with the recipe for Pizza Pinwheels and a heart full of determination, I set out to make my own version of this delectable treat.

The first step was to gather all the ingredients I would need. I made a list and headed to the grocery store, excited to embark on this culinary adventure. As I carefully selected each item – pizza dough, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices – I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within me. This was going to be something special, something that would bring joy to my family and friends.

Back in my kitchen, I rolled out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape, making sure it was nice and thin. I then spread a generous amount of marinara sauce over the dough, followed by a layer of gooey mozzarella cheese and a scattering of savory pepperoni slices. The aromas that wafted through the air as I assembled the pinwheels were enough to make my stomach growl in anticipation.

With the ingredients all in place, it was time to roll up the pizza dough and cut it into individual pinwheels. As I carefully sliced through the dough, I couldn't help but marvel at the beautiful swirls of cheese and pepperoni that were revealed with each cut. These pinwheels were going to be a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

After arranging the pinwheels on a baking sheet, I popped them into the oven and waited anxiously for them to bake to golden perfection. The scent of melted cheese and bubbling marinara sauce filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. Finally, the timer dinged, and I pulled the tray of piping hot Pizza Pinwheels out of the oven.

As I gazed upon the golden-brown swirls of goodness before me, I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into one of these delectable treats. I carefully lifted a pinwheel off the tray and took a bite, savoring the explosion of flavors that danced on my tongue. The tangy marinara sauce, the gooey cheese, the spicy pepperoni – it was a symphony of tastes that left me craving more.

I knew that Mrs. Jenkins would be proud of my rendition of her beloved recipe. I could almost imagine her smiling down at me from heaven, pleased to see that her culinary legacy lived on through me. And as I shared these Pizza Pinwheels with my family and friends, I knew that I was passing on a piece of Mrs. Jenkins' magic to them as well.

Each bite of these Pizza Pinwheels was a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together, to create memories that would last a lifetime. And as I sat around the table with my loved ones, laughing and talking and enjoying each other's company, I knew that these little swirls of cheesy goodness had brought us closer together.

So, as I write down this recipe for Pizza Pinwheels in my own cookbook, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for Mrs. Jenkins and the countless other cooks who have inspired me over the years. Their recipes may have come from various places and people, but the love and passion they infused into their dishes are what truly make them special. And I hope that as you make these Pizza Pinwheels in your own kitchen, you will feel that same sense of joy and connection that I do every time I take a bite. Enjoy!