Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups Recipe

Bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors and a festive swirl, Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups are my ultimate go-to appetizer for everything from impromptu gatherings to special celebrations. Imagine creamy cheese layered with sweet sun dried tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a touch of garlic, all rolled in soft tortillas that slice into colorful pinwheels. These addictive bites deliver the perfect balance of tang, freshness, and just enough richness to impress every guest. Whether you need a make-ahead party hero or a simple snack that looks stunning on a platter, these roll ups never fail to steal the show.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, contributing a burst of flavor, velvety texture, or vibrant color that makes every bite irresistible.

• Cream Cheese: Offers a luscious base and creamy texture that binds everything together; let it soften for easy spreading.
• Sun Dried Tomatoes (in oil): Deliver tangy, concentrated tomato flavor and a glorious pop of deep red color; pat them dry before chopping.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Bring zesty herbal notes and a beautiful splash of green in every swirl.
• Garlic Powder: Adds subtle savory depth without overpowering the fresh flavors.
• Large Flour Tortillas: Soft, flexible, and perfect for rolling; opt for burrito-size for easy slicing.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish that complements the creamy and tangy fillings.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the filling to perfection, letting the other flavors shine.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups

Step 1: Prep the Cheese Mixture

Start by adding your softened cream cheese to a medium mixing bowl. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the decadent base that carries all the bold flavors and ensures the filling spreads easily over your tortillas.

Step 2: Chop and Add the Flavor Boosters

Roughly chop the sun dried tomatoes into small pieces and finely slice the fresh basil. Add both to your cream cheese mixture along with the shredded Parmesan. Mix until all the vibrant ingredients are evenly distributed, ensuring every roll gets a burst of flavor and color.

Step 3: Spread and Roll

Lay out each tortilla on a flat surface. Evenly spread the filling all the way to the edges, making sure you don’t skimp near the ends—that’s where you want those pretty swirls to show. Carefully roll each tortilla up tightly into a log shape, pressing gently as you go to keep all the goodness inside.

Step 4: Chill for Clean Slices

Wrap each roll-up snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This crucial step allows the filling to firm up and flavors meld, making slicing a breeze and ensuring beautiful pinwheels that hold their shape.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Remove your chilled roll ups from the fridge and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1-inch thick pieces—cleaning the blade between cuts gives you the prettiest presentation. Arrange the Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups on a platter, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups

Garnishes

Add a scatter of extra chopped sun dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh basil over the platter right before serving. A light dusting of additional Parmesan or a quick drizzle of olive oil can also give your Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups an irresistible finishing touch and restaurant-worthy appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair these savory pinwheels with a crisp green salad, a roasted red pepper soup, or a spread of Mediterranean dips like hummus or tzatziki. The creamy, herby flavors of the roll ups harmonize perfectly with bright, fresh sides, turning your appetizer course into a complete feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, arrange your Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups in a spiral or circular pattern on a wooden board, or skewer individual pieces with colorful cocktail picks for easy grab-and-go snacking. You can even stack them in a pyramid, or display them alongside cherry tomatoes and mini mozzarella balls for a vibrant, edible centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for snacking straight from the fridge or tucking into lunchboxes. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment so they don’t stick together.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled roll ups before slicing for longer storage. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing for best results; keep in mind the texture may soften slightly but the flavors remain bold and satisfying.

Reheating

Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer, you can let them sit out of the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving. There’s no need to reheat—they’re designed to be cool, creamy, and ready to serve right from the platter.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of cream cheese?

Absolutely! Goat cheese or whipped ricotta creates a delightful tangy twist and pairs wonderfully with the sun dried tomato and basil combination. Just be sure to use a spreadable cheese for easy rolling.

What’s the best way to prevent the roll ups from getting soggy?

Pat the sun dried tomatoes dry with paper towels before chopping, and avoid overfilling with moist ingredients. Chilling the roll ups well before slicing also helps them hold their shape and avoids any sogginess.

Are Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups gluten free?

Traditional flour tortillas contain gluten, but you can easily substitute your favorite gluten free tortillas with great results. Just look for ones that are flexible and large enough for easy rolling.

Can I make these roll ups ahead of time?

Yes, these are a dream appetizer for prepping ahead! Make the roll ups up to 24 hours in advance and slice them just before serving so they’re extra fresh and picture-perfect.

What’s the best way to transport Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups to a party?

After slicing, arrange the pinwheels in a single layer in a container lined with parchment paper, stacking with extra parchment between layers to keep them looking their best. Keep chilled with an ice pack if you’re traveling a distance.

Final Thoughts

If you love recipes that marry vibrant flavors with effortless style, Sun Dried Tomato Basil Roll Ups belong on your must-try list. Whether you’re hosting or just craving a snack that feels special, these pinwheels are sure to delight. Grab your ingredients, gather your friends, and savor every delicious swirl!

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