Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls

There’s something utterly comforting about the combination of fresh greens and cheesy goodness, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in these Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls. I still remember the first time I made them; the kitchen was filled with the aroma of baking dough and the vibrant scent of basil. A friend had dropped by unexpectedly, and I wanted to whip up a snack that would impress. As I rolled the dough, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of joy that comes from creating something both delicious and nutritious. These rolls have since become a favorite in my household, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

What to Buy for Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls

When preparing to make Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls, it’s essential to choose high-quality ingredients that will enhance the flavors and textures of the dish. Each component plays a vital role, from the fresh herbs to the flour used for the dough. Together, they create a harmonious blend of taste that is both satisfying and nourishing.

• 1 cup water: This is the base for activating the yeast and helps form the dough.
• 2 teaspoons yeast (active dry): Essential for making the dough rise and become fluffy.
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar: A small amount to feed the yeast and aid in its activation.
• 1 cup flour (all-purpose): Provides the structure for the dough.
• 2 cups flour (whole wheat): Adds a nutty flavor and increases the nutritional value.
• 4 tablespoons flaxseed (ground): A great source of omega-3 fatty acids and helps to bind the dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
• 4 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps with the dough’s elasticity.
• 1 cup kale, chopped: The star green, packed with vitamins and a lovely earthy taste.
• 1 cup basil, fresh: Provides a fragrant and aromatic flavor to the pesto.
• 1/2 medium lemon: The juice brightens up the pesto and adds acidity.
• 1/8 cup sunflower seeds: Offers a delightful crunch and complements the flavors of the pesto.
• 1 clove garlic: A must-have for its aromatic and savory flavor profile.
• 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a salty, savory richness to the pesto.
• 4 ounces mozzarella cheese: The melty goodness that brings everything together.
• 4 medium pears: Serve alongside the rolls for a sweet and refreshing contrast.

Cooking Instructions for Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls

Getting into the kitchen to make Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls is always a rewarding experience. Each step brings you closer to that golden, cheesy goodness. Let’s dive into the details of preparing this delicious dish!

1. Start by placing yeast and sugar into water that’s warm, between 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir it gently to combine and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes puffy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, making your rolls light and airy.
2. While waiting for the yeast to activate, take a large bowl and combine both types of flour with flaxseed, salt, and olive oil. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution.
3. After the yeast is ready, add it to the bowl of dry ingredients along with the remaining water. Use clean hands to stir and combine until a cohesive dough forms. It should feel slightly sticky; if it feels too dry, don’t hesitate to add a little more water.
4. Knead the dough gently for about one minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s smooth and elastic but still a bit tacky. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rest for at least 1 hour, or up to 6 hours, to let it rise.
5. During the rise, prepare the kale. Place it in a large bowl and pour very hot or boiling water over the leaves. Let it sit for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will wilt the kale while preserving its vibrant color.
6. After the kale has wilted, drain it and squeeze out any excess moisture. Then, add it to a food processor along with basil, juice from lemon, sunflower seeds, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend this mixture until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and season with salt.
7. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating up, grease two muffin tins—you’ll need one full pan and 4 additional cups to make a total of 16 rolls.
8. After the dough has risen, place it on a piece of parchment paper and use your hands to press it into an 11 by 16-inch rectangle. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
9. Spread the prepared pesto evenly over the dough using a spatula. Then, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
10. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight spiral. Use a serrated knife to cut the rolled dough into 1-inch slices.
11. Place each slice into a prepared muffin cup. Bake them for 16 to 18 minutes or until the dough is baked through and the tops are starting to become golden brown.
12. Once baked, remove them from the pan using a knife around the edges if needed. Let them cool slightly before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm!
13. For an added treat, serve the Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls with sliced pears for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

Recipe Tips about Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls

When making Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls, there are a few tips to enhance your baking experience and ensure success!

• Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: Serve your rolls with a side salad or soup for a complete meal. They also make a great appetizer for gatherings!
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or even add some spices for a kick. A pinch of chili flakes can add a delightful heat.
• Serving suggestion: Drizzle some extra olive oil or a balsamic reduction over the rolls before serving for an elevated flavor experience.
• Make it a meal: Pair these rolls with a hearty vegetable soup or salad for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Great Combinations for Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls

These Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes and occasions. Here are some great combinations:

• Fresh Salads: A bright caprese salad or a zesty arugula salad pairs wonderfully with the richness of the rolls.
• Soups: Serve alongside a creamy tomato soup or a light vegetable broth for a cozy meal.
• Picnics: They’re perfect for packing up on a picnic; just wrap each roll individually, and you’re set!
• Appetizer for Gatherings: Perfect as finger food at parties, serve them warm on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• Dipping Sauces: Pair with a garlic aioli or spicy marinara sauce for dipping to add an extra layer of flavor.
• Seasonal Pairings: During the fall, serve these with roasted squash or apple slices to complement the earthy flavors.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls are not just a delightful treat but also a wholesome choice packed with nutrients. Their combination of fresh ingredients and cheesy goodness is hard to resist. I encourage you to try making them yourself; you won’t be disappointed! There’s something so satisfying about creating these rolls from scratch, and they’re sure to impress friends and family alike.

Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls

The ultimate comfort food, these Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls are deliciously cheesy and packed with fresh greens. Perfect for a cozy night in or a fun party appetizer, they’re sure to become a favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 48 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Blender
• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Water
• 2 teaspoons Yeast (active dry)
• 1/4 teaspoon Sugar
• 1 cup Flour (all-purpose)
• 2 cups Flour (whole wheat)
• 4 tablespoons Flaxseed (ground)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 4 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 cup Kale, chopped
• 1 cup Basil, fresh
• 1/2 medium Lemon
• 1/8 cup Sunflower seeds
• 1 clove Garlic
• 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, grated
• 4 ounces Mozzarella cheese
• 4 medium Pears

Instructions

 

• Start by placing yeast and sugar into water that’s warm, between 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir it gently to combine and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes puffy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, making your rolls light and airy.
• While waiting for the yeast to activate, take a large bowl and combine both types of flour with flaxseed, salt, and olive oil. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution.
• After the yeast is ready, add it to the bowl of dry ingredients along with the remaining water. Use clean hands to stir and combine until a cohesive dough forms. It should feel slightly sticky; if it feels too dry, don’t hesitate to add a little more water.
• Knead the dough gently for about one minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s smooth and elastic but still a bit tacky. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rest for at least 1 hour, or up to 6 hours, to let it rise.
• During the rise, prepare the kale. Place it in a large bowl and pour very hot or boiling water over the leaves. Let it sit for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will wilt the kale while preserving its vibrant color.
• After the kale has wilted, drain it and squeeze out any excess moisture. Then, add it to a food processor along with basil, juice from lemon, sunflower seeds, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend this mixture until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and season with salt.
• Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating up, grease two muffin tins—you’ll need one full pan and 4 additional cups to make a total of 16 rolls.
• After the dough has risen, place it on a piece of parchment paper and use your hands to press it into an 11 by 16-inch rectangle. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
• Spread the prepared pesto evenly over the dough using a spatula. Then, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
• Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight spiral. Use a serrated knife to cut the rolled dough into 1-inch slices.
• Place each slice into a prepared muffin cup. Bake them for 16 to 18 minutes or until the dough is baked through and the tops are starting to become golden brown.
• Once baked, remove them from the pan using a knife around the edges if needed. Let them cool slightly before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm!
• For an added treat, serve the Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls with sliced pears for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

Notes

These Kale Pesto Pizza Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes and occasions. Here are some great combinations:

Keyword Cheesy Kale Snacks, Easy Kale Recipe, Kale Pizza Rolls, Pesto Rolls Recipe