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Fresh Vegetable Tortilla Roll Ups make a quick lunch or snack that is bursting with color from crisp veggies and creamy, tangy filling. Whenever I am prepping snack boxes for my family or need something cheerful for a potluck, these roll ups disappear within minutes and everyone asks for the recipe. They are simple enough for beginners yet look impressive.
I once brought a platter of these to a family picnic and even the kids who usually avoid veggies kept reaching for more. Now my friends request these every time we plan a get together.
Ingredients
- Diced broccoli carrots and red bell pepper: brings crunch and color choose vibrant firm veggies for the best texture
- Softened cream cheese: creates the luscious base let it warm up for easy mixing
- Mayonnaise: adds a little richness go for a brand you love
- Garlic powder and dried dill: brightens the mix and adds gentle flavor
- Salt and ground black pepper: seasons every bite
- Large flour tortillas: fleecy and soft look for burrito size so you can roll generously
- Shredded cheddar cheese: for sharpness and gooey texture freshly shredded melts best
- Sliced green onions: for a bit of zing choose bright green tops for freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables and Ingredients:
- Chop all the veggies into tiny pieces so every bite gets a little bit of everything. Leave your cream cheese on the counter to get soft it will blend much easier.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl mix the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Add the garlic powder dried dill salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly so all the seasonings are evenly mixed in.
- Prepare and Fill the Tortillas:
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds until flexible. Spread the cream cheese mixture right up to the edges in a smooth even layer. Sprinkle the chopped vegetables cheddar cheese and green onions evenly on top of the cream cheese.
- Roll and Secure the Tortillas:
- Starting at one side roll the tortilla up as tightly as you can. The creamy filling will help it seal together. Stick in a toothpick or two to hold the roll in place. Pop the rolls in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm them up or wrap them tight and chill overnight for make ahead snacks.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once chilled or set take out the toothpicks. Slice each roll into pinwheels with a sharp knife and arrange them on a serving plate.
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The cheddar cheese is my favorite part because it adds such richness creamy sharp bits in every bite. I have a vivid memory of making these with my kids one summer and everyone wanted to choose their veggie combo.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the fridge and they will stay fresh for up to two days. If making ahead for a party slice them just before serving to keep them from drying out. Roll ups can be flash frozen after rolling for 20 minutes to set the filling for cleaner slicing if you prefer.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use any combo of crisp vegetables you enjoy like snap peas or zucchini. Swap Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise to lighten up. Whole wheat tortillas make a hearty option and using Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese will mellow the flavor profile.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these roll ups as a party appetizer arranged in a spiral on a tray. They make great lunchbox fillers with a side of hummus or your favorite dip. I love pairing them alongside a simple green salad for a refreshing picnic meal.
Cultural Context
Tortilla roll ups are a popular finger food across North America and are also known as pinwheels. Their popularity comes from ease of preparation and infinite filling variations. You will often find them at potlucks and kids parties where they always go quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the roll ups from falling apart?
Chill the rolled tortillas in the fridge or freezer for easier slicing and use toothpicks to help them hold their shape before serving.
- → Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Substitute or add favorites like zucchini, cucumber, or spinach for extra flavor or texture.
- → Do I need to cook the vegetables beforehand?
No cooking is needed—finely dicing the veggies ensures they blend well and stay crisp inside the tortilla.
- → What’s a good substitute for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt, mascarpone, or a dairy-free alternative can be used in place of cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and chill them overnight, tightly wrapped, to keep them fresh until you're ready to serve.
- → How should I serve these roll ups?
Slice them into pinwheels and arrange on a platter—they work well as party bites, snacks, or light lunch options.