Pesto Feta Rolls

Pesto Feta Rolls are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive party, these rolls filled with creamy feta, vibrant pesto, and savory sun-dried tomatoes will surely impress your guests. Their delightful aroma and golden finish make them not just delicious but visually appealing as well. Enjoy these rolls warm from the oven as an appetizer or a tasty snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of pesto, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich and savory taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making Pesto Feta Rolls is a breeze even for beginners.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, picnics, or as a side dish for your favorite meals, these rolls fit any occasion.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge to bake fresh rolls whenever you need them.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These rolls are sure to be a hit among family and friends, making them great for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Pesto Feta Rolls successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can simplify the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly so that your rolls cook uniformly.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures your rolls bake evenly while providing easy transport in and out of the oven.

Ingredients

Pesto Feta Rolls is a homemade dough filled with cheese, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, baked to perfection.

For the Dough

• ⅔ cup (163 g) whole milk, (warmed to 105°F-115°F)
• 5 tablespoons granulated sugar, (divided)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 large eggs, (room temperature)
• 2¾ cups (344 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, (cut into 1-inch pieces, room temperature)

For the Filling

• 1 jar (6.5 ounces) pesto
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, (grated)
• 4 ounces feta cheese, (crumbled)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, (roughly chopped)
• 1 jar (7 ounces) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, (drained and chopped)
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, (shredded)

For Topping

• 3 tablespoons butter, (melted)
• 1 teaspoon garlic, (minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese, (grated and sprinkled on top)

How to Make Pesto Feta Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming the milk until it reaches between 105°F-115°F. In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine warmed milk with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
2. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture; let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
3. Add remaining sugar, eggs, flour, salt, and butter; mix until combined.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer dough onto a floured surface.
2. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap or a clean cloth.
4. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 3: Make the Filling

While waiting for the dough to rise:
1. In another bowl, combine pesto, parmesan cheese, feta cheese, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese; mix well.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Punch down the dough; roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
3. Spread filling evenly across rolled-out dough.

Step 5: Form the Rolls

1. Starting from one long side of the rectangle, carefully roll up into a log shape.
2. Pinch seams to seal; slice into equal pieces about 1-2 inches wide.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

1. Arrange rolls on a greased baking sheet.
2. Brush tops with melted butter mixed with minced garlic and sprinkle with salt.
3. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your freshly baked Pesto Feta Rolls!

How to Serve Pesto Feta Rolls

Pesto Feta Rolls are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these rolls are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions for your Pesto Feta Rolls.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, brushed with garlic butter for a crispy finish.
• Pair with a dip: Offer a side of marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dressing for dipping.

With Salad

• Tossed green salad: Serve alongside a mixed green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the rolls.
• Caesar salad: The creamy dressing complements the flavors in the pesto and cheese.

For a Snack

• On a charcuterie board: Include Pesto Feta Rolls among cheeses, olives, and crackers for an enticing snack platter.
• As part of lunch boxes: Cut into smaller pieces for an easy grab-and-go option.

How to Perfect Pesto Feta Rolls

To make your Pesto Feta Rolls even more delightful, follow these tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use warm milk: This activates the yeast effectively, leading to better dough rise.
• Don’t skip resting time: Allow the dough to rest properly; this improves texture and flavor.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add ingredients like roasted red peppers or artichokes for extra flavor.
• Brush with melted butter: This step adds richness and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pesto Feta Rolls

Pesto Feta Rolls pair well with numerous side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent options you can consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the rolls.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide sweetness and texture contrast.

3. Garlic Bread
   More bread is always welcome! Garlic bread enhances the overall flavor profile.

4. Tomato Soup
   A warm bowl of tomato soup serves as a comforting dip for your rolls.

5. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a crisp, healthy pairing.

6. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw provides refreshing acidity that complements the savory rolls.

7. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies can serve as a hearty side.

8. Caprese Salad
   This classic Italian salad showcases fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, making it a delightful match.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• When making Pesto Feta Rolls, it’s crucial to avoid these common errors:

• Wrong Temperature for Milk: Using milk that’s too hot or too cold can kill the yeast. Always warm it to 105°F-115°F for proper activation.

• Not Allowing Dough to Rise: Skipping the rise time leads to dense rolls. Ensure the dough rests until it doubles in size.

• Overstuffing the Rolls: Adding too much filling can make rolling difficult and lead to spills. Use a moderate amount of filling for best results.

• Inconsistent Baking Time: Every oven is different; check your rolls a few minutes before the suggested cook time. Golden brown is what you want!

• Skipping the Garlic Butter Brush: This adds flavor and shine. Don’t forget to brush melted garlic butter on top before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pesto Feta Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pesto Feta Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pesto Feta Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, but be cautious as this may make them soggy.

• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pesto Feta Rolls?

Pesto Feta Rolls are delicious homemade rolls filled with pesto, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, baked for a savory treat.

How long does it take to make Pesto Feta Rolls?

The total time is approximately 150 minutes, including prep and rise time.

Can I customize the filling in Pesto Feta Rolls?

Yes! Feel free to add other ingredients like roasted peppers or olives according to your taste preferences.

How do I know when my Pesto Feta Rolls are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Final Thoughts

Pesto Feta Rolls offer a delightful combination of flavors that are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!