Pizza Pinwheels Recipe
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 60 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1/2 cup |
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1/2 cup |
| Lukewarm Water | 1/3 cup |
| Active Dry Yeast | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/3 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum, finely chopped) | 1 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for brushing) | 1 tablespoon (optional) |
| Homemade Pizza and Pasta Sauce | 2 to 3 tablespoons |
| Mozzarella Cheese (grated) | As required |
| Dried Oregano | As required |
| Red Chilli Flakes | As needed |
Instructions
-
Activate the Yeast:
Begin by preparing the yeast mixture. In a small bowl, combine lukewarm water, sugar, salt, and olive oil. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and salt. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and whisk to combine. Set the bowl aside for a few minutes to allow the yeast to activate. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes frothy and bubbly. -
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour (maida). Gradually add the flour mixture to the activated yeast solution. Mix thoroughly to form a dough. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Once the dough reaches the desired consistency, cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for at least one hour. The dough should double in size. -
Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is resting, prepare your pizza filling. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn soft and slightly golden. Next, add the chopped tomatoes and bell pepper (capsicum) to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just enough to soften the vegetables. Remove from heat and set aside. -
Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has rested and doubled in size, dust your kitchen surface with some flour and roll the dough into a slightly thick, long rectangular shape. The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick. Spread a thin layer of homemade pizza sauce evenly over the dough. -
Add the Filling:
Sprinkle dried oregano generously over the pizza sauce, followed by the sautéed onion, tomato, and bell pepper mixture. Add the grated mozzarella cheese as desired, ensuring an even distribution across the dough. For added flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of red chili flakes, depending on your spice preference. -
Roll the Dough:
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, ensuring the fillings remain inside. Once rolled, wrap the dough log tightly in plastic cling film or wax paper and refrigerate it for about 10 minutes. This step helps firm up the dough and makes it easier to slice. -
Preheat the Oven:
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with silver foil or parchment paper. -
Slice and Bake:
After the dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and carefully slice it into slightly thick rounds (about 1 to 1.5 inches). Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking tray. Brush the top of each slice with a small amount of olive oil, and if you like, you can sprinkle a little more mozzarella cheese, oregano, and red chili flakes on top for extra flavor. -
Bake the Pinwheels:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the pizza pinwheels start to turn golden brown and crispy. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute or two. Serve these delicious Pizza Pinwheels as a delightful appetizer, accompanied by a classic Pizza Margherita or a side of Burnt Garlic Pasta with Mushrooms. Pair them with a glass of wine for a perfect weekend dinner!
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to customize the filling with any of your favorite vegetables, such as olives, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Cheese Variations: For an extra cheesy treat, try adding a blend of cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, or even goat cheese to the filling.
- Spice It Up: Add a few jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level of the pinwheels.
These Pizza Pinwheels are a versatile, delicious, and fun way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a bite-sized form. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a quick snack!
