Siesta Roll-ups

Siesta Roll-ups Recipe - Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Siesta Roll-ups are a delicious and flavorful appetizer or snack that are perfect for any occasion. These roll-ups are filled with roasted poblano and sweet red peppers, creamy cream cheese, garlic, cilantro, and olives, all wrapped up in a tortilla. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for entertaining.

History

The exact origins of Siesta Roll-ups are unknown, but they are believed to have been inspired by traditional Mexican flavors and ingredients. The combination of roasted peppers, cream cheese, and olives wrapped in a tortilla is a popular choice for many appetizers and snacks in Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients

2 large poblano peppers
2 medium sweet red peppers
0.5 of an 8 oz (227 g) tub of plain cream cheese
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tbsp of snipped fresh cilantro
1 tbsp of Spanish black olives
1 tbsp of Spanish red pimento stuffed green olives
2 tsp of lime juice
0.13 tsp of ground red pepper
4 x 7- or 8-inch flour tortillas

How to prepare

To roast poblano and sweet red peppers, halve the peppers and remove the stems, membranes, and seeds.
Place the peppers, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with foil.
Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the skin is bubbly and browned.
Put the peppers in a brown paper bag and let them stand for 15 to 20 minutes or until they are cool enough to handle.
Gently and slowly remove the skin using a paring knife, then cut the peppers into thin strips.
Meanwhile, combine the cream cheese, garlic, cilantro, black and green olives, lime juice, and ground red pepper.
Spread the tortillas with the cream cheese mixture.
Place the poblano and red pepper strips over the cream cheese.
Roll up the tortillas.
Wrap the tortillas with clear plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
Unwrap the tortillas and slice them crosswise into 1.25 inch slices.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use different types of peppers for a variety of flavors.
Add diced tomatoes or avocado for extra freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roast the peppers until the skin is bubbly and browned to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.

- Let the roasted peppers cool in a brown paper bag to make it easier to remove the skin.

- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on the tortillas to ensure that each bite is filled with flavor.

- Refrigerate the roll-ups for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to meld together before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Siesta Roll-ups can be served as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch. They pair well with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the peppers brings out their natural sweetness and flavor, while spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly ensures that each bite is filled with deliciousness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular green or black olives if Spanish olives are not available.

- Use a flavored cream cheese, such as herb or garlic, for added taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Siesta Roll-ups can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 6 hours before slicing and serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced roll-ups on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Siesta Roll-ups pair well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing margarita.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Siesta Roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Siesta Roll-ups contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Siesta Roll-ups contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Siesta Roll-ups contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Siesta Roll-ups contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Siesta Roll-ups are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and calcium.

Alergens

Siesta Roll-ups contain dairy (cream cheese) and wheat (tortillas).

Summary

Siesta Roll-ups are a delicious and flavorful appetizer that is relatively low in calories and a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Siesta Roll-ups are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that is perfect for any occasion. Filled with roasted peppers, cream cheese, garlic, cilantro, and olives, these roll-ups are bursting with flavor and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margot in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of spices and herbs wafting through the air. Margot was busy at her stove, stirring a pot of simmering tomato sauce with a look of pure concentration on her face.

"Come on in, dear," she called out, flashing me a warm smile. "I'm trying out a new recipe today – Siesta Roll-ups. Have you ever heard of them?"

I shook my head, my curiosity piqued. I had always been an adventurous cook, willing to try new flavors and techniques. Margot had taught me many of her own recipes over the years, and I always cherished the time we spent together in the kitchen.

"Well, it's a family recipe passed down from my grandmother," Margot explained, as she expertly spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese on a soft flour tortilla. "She used to make these for us when we were kids, and they were always a hit."

I watched in awe as Margot carefully rolled up the tortilla, tucking in the sides to create a neat little package. She placed it seam-side down in a baking dish, repeating the process with the remaining tortillas.

"Next, we'll cover them in a savory tomato sauce and sprinkle them with cheese before baking them in the oven," Margot said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I can't wait for you to try them!"

As we waited for the roll-ups to bake, Margot regaled me with stories of her grandmother and the countless hours they had spent together in the kitchen. She spoke of how her grandmother had learned to cook from her own mother, who had immigrated to America from Italy in search of a better life.

"Cooking was a way for my grandmother to connect with her roots and keep her family traditions alive," Margot explained, a hint of nostalgia in her voice. "She always said that food was love, and I truly believe that."

When the timer finally dinged, we eagerly pulled the baking dish out of the oven, the roll-ups bubbling and golden brown. The rich aroma of melted cheese and tangy tomato sauce filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

We sat down at the table, our plates piled high with Siesta Roll-ups and a crisp green salad on the side. I took my first bite, savoring the creamy ricotta cheese and the tangy tomato sauce that burst with flavor in my mouth. It was a perfect combination of textures and tastes, a true culinary delight.

As we ate, Margot shared more stories of her grandmother and the special bond they had shared through cooking. She spoke of how her grandmother had taught her not just how to cook, but also how to appreciate the simple joys of life – good food, good company, and good memories.

I left Margot's house that day with a full belly and a grateful heart. The recipe for Siesta Roll-ups had not just filled my stomach, but also nourished my soul. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to pass down traditions from one generation to the next.

And so, whenever I make Siesta Roll-ups in my own kitchen now, I think of Margot and her grandmother, and I feel their love and wisdom guiding me through each step of the recipe. It is a dish that has become a part of my own family's culinary heritage, a symbol of the connections we forge through food and the stories we share around the table.

As I write this now, I am reminded of the joy that cooking has brought me over the years, and the countless recipes I have collected and cherished along the way. Each one tells a story, each one holds a memory, and each one is a testament to the enduring power of food to nourish both body and soul.

And so, I will continue to cook and bake and explore new flavors and techniques, always seeking to learn and grow and share the gift of good food with those I love. For in the kitchen, as in life, there is always something new to discover, something new to savor, and something new to pass down to the next generation. And that, my dears, is the true beauty of cooking – a never-ending journey of love, laughter, and delicious food.