Spinach Roll-ups

Spinach Roll-ups Recipe from Guatemala | Cream Cheese, Bacon, and Tortillas

Region / culture: Guatemala | Servings: 8

Introduction

Spinach roll-ups are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that are perfect for any occasion. These creamy and flavorful roll-ups are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The exact origins of spinach roll-ups are unclear, but they are believed to have originated in the United States as a popular party food. This recipe has since become a staple at gatherings and potlucks, loved for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Ingredients

16 oz (454 g) of softened cream cheese
0.25 cup of mayonnaise
0.25 cup of sour cream
1 packet of dry ranch dressing mix
4 – 5 slices of crisp-cooked, crumbled bacon
2 (10 oz (283 g)) packages of frozen spinach, thawed and drained as dry as possible
8 large flour tortillas

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients except for the tortillas.
Spread the mixture evenly over the tortillas, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Avoid spreading the filling too thickly to prevent it from leaking out the ends.
Roll up the tortillas tightly and wrap them in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Slice the rolled tortillas into 1-inch pieces.

Variations

Add in diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or chopped olives to the filling for extra flavor.
Use flavored tortillas, such as sun-dried tomato or spinach, for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly drain the thawed spinach to prevent the roll-ups from becoming soggy.

- You can customize the filling by adding in ingredients like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or chopped olives.

- For a healthier version, you can use low-fat cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve spinach roll-ups as an appetizer at parties, potlucks, or game nights. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes or picnic baskets.

Cooking Techniques

Thoroughly drain the thawed spinach to prevent the roll-ups from becoming soggy.

- Roll up the tortillas tightly to ensure that the filling stays in place.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier flavor.

- Substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the spinach roll-ups ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to serve. They can be made up to 24 hours in advance.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced spinach roll-ups on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve spinach roll-ups with a side of fresh vegetables and dip, such as hummus or tzatziki. They also pair well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover spinach roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spinach roll-ups contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spinach roll-ups contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of spinach roll-ups contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of spinach roll-ups contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach roll-ups are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream) and eggs (mayonnaise), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Spinach roll-ups are a tasty and satisfying snack that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Spinach roll-ups are a versatile and delicious snack that are perfect for any occasion. With a creamy and flavorful filling wrapped in a tortilla, these roll-ups are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy them at your next gathering or as a tasty treat for yourself!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Spinach Roll-ups. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I was going through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, I stumbled upon a handwritten note tucked between the pages. It was a recipe for Spinach Roll-ups, written in elegant cursive handwriting.

I had never heard of Spinach Roll-ups before, but the ingredients sounded delicious – spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and nutmeg all rolled up in a delicate pastry. I immediately knew that I had to try making them.

I decided to call up my friend Margaret, who was known for her culinary skills, to see if she had ever heard of Spinach Roll-ups. To my delight, Margaret not only knew what they were but also had a recipe for them that she had learned from her own grandmother.

Margaret invited me over to her house the following day to show me how to make Spinach Roll-ups. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the warm aroma of garlic and cheese. Margaret had already gathered all the ingredients we needed, and she began to explain the recipe to me in detail.

First, we sautéed fresh spinach with minced garlic until it was wilted and fragrant. Then, we mixed in crumbled feta cheese and a pinch of nutmeg for added flavor. Margaret showed me how to roll out store-bought puff pastry dough and spread the spinach mixture evenly over it. We carefully rolled up the dough into a log and sliced it into individual roll-ups.

As we placed the roll-ups on a baking sheet and popped them into the oven, Margaret regaled me with stories of how she had learned to cook from her grandmother. She explained how each recipe was a cherished family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation.

As the Spinach Roll-ups baked to a golden perfection, Margaret and I chatted about our own family recipes and the memories associated with them. It was a special moment of bonding and shared heritage that I would always treasure.

When the timer went off, we eagerly pulled the Spinach Roll-ups out of the oven. The pastry was flaky and golden, and the filling oozed with cheesy goodness. Margaret and I couldn't wait to dig in.

The first bite was a revelation – the savory spinach, tangy feta, and aromatic nutmeg blended together perfectly. The flavors danced on my taste buds, and I couldn't help but close my eyes in pure bliss. Margaret smiled at me, knowing that I had fallen in love with Spinach Roll-ups just as she had.

As we savored each bite, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the culinary traditions that had been passed down to me. I realized that cooking wasn't just about following a recipe – it was about connecting with my roots and honoring the memories of those who had come before me.

From that day on, Spinach Roll-ups became a staple in my own kitchen. Whenever I made them, I would think of Margaret and her grandmother, and the special bond that we shared over a love of food and family.

As I sit here now, writing down this story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but smile. The recipe for Spinach Roll-ups may have come from a random cookbook on a rainy afternoon, but the memories and traditions that it represents are priceless. And that, my dears, is the true magic of cooking – it's not just about the ingredients, but the stories and love that go into every dish.