• Large Flour Tortillas: These form the base of our pinwheels, providing a soft and pliable wrap that holds all the fillings together perfectly. Look for the burrito-size tortillas, as they are larger and easier to roll.
• Cream Cheese, Softened: This is the creamy binder that brings all the ingredients together. Softened cream cheese spreads smoothly and adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully. Full-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese both work well, depending on your preference.
• Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing adds a zesty and flavorful kick. It enhances the taste of the vegetables and blends seamlessly with the cream cheese, creating a delicious and familiar flavor profile that’s loved by both kids and adults. You can use store-bought or homemade ranch dressing.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a sharp and savory counterpoint to the cream cheese and ranch. It also adds a wonderful texture and visual appeal when melted slightly or served as is. You can use mild, medium, or sharp cheddar depending on your taste.
• Finely Diced Vegetables (Choose a Variety): This is where the real fun begins! The beauty of veggie pinwheels is their adaptability. You can use a wide array of vegetables based on your preferences and what you have available. Some excellent choices include: Carrots: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant orange color. Finely dice or shred carrots for the best texture.
• Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, Orange): Provide a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, along with a satisfying crispness and beautiful colors. Dice them into small pieces.
• Cucumber: Offers a refreshing coolness and a mild flavor. Make sure to remove the seeds and dice the cucumber finely.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds a slightly earthy flavor and a nice bite. Blanching the broccoli briefly can make it easier to digest and incorporate into the pinwheels, but finely diced raw broccoli works too for a quicker prep.
• Spinach or Baby Greens: Adds a boost of nutrients and a subtle leafy flavor. Finely chop spinach or baby greens for even distribution.
• Red Onion: Provides a pungent and slightly spicy kick. Use it sparingly if you prefer a milder flavor. Finely mince the red onion.
• Black Olives: Adds a salty and briny flavor that complements the other ingredients. Slice black olives thinly.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Provide a juicy burst of sweetness and acidity. Remove seeds and dice finely.
