Introduction
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch idea or planning tomorrow’s meal prep, these basil pesto turkey roll-ups have become my go-to solution for a fresh and satisfying meal. I’ve found that combining the Mediterranean flavors of basil pesto with lean turkey creates the perfect balance of protein and taste. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
What I love most about these roll-ups is their versatility. You can pack them in your kids’ lunch boxes, serve them at your next picnic, or enjoy them as an afternoon snack. The best part? You won’t need to turn on your stove or oven. Just grab your ingredients, roll them up, and you’re done. I’ll show you how to make these delicious wraps that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Recipe
Basil pesto turkey roll-ups combine fresh Mediterranean flavors with lean protein in an easy-to-prepare wrap that’s perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, and quick meals. The combination of creamy cheese, aromatic pesto, and tender turkey creates a satisfying meal that requires no cooking.
These versatile roll-ups can be prepared in advance and stored for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, making them an excellent option for meal prep. The cream cheese acts as a binding agent while adding richness, and the fresh spinach provides a nutritious crunch to complement the savory turkey and fragrant pesto.
- 8 slices deli turkey
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Lay out each tortilla on a clean work surface and spread with a layer of softened cream cheese, leaving a small border around the edges. Add an even layer of basil pesto over the cream cheese. Place turkey slices across each tortilla, then top with fresh spinach leaves. Starting from one end, tightly roll each tortilla, keeping the filling in place as you roll. Cut each roll into 1-inch pieces or leave whole, securing with toothpicks if needed.
Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature for easier spreading, and pat spinach leaves dry with paper towels before using to prevent soggy tortillas. For best results, wrap completed rolls tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. These roll-ups can be customized with different deli meats, vegetables, or spreads, and can be cut into smaller pieces for appetizers or served whole for a main course.
Prep Time
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, you’ll be glad to know the prep time for these tasty roll-ups is remarkably quick. You can put together a batch in just 15-20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weekday mornings or last-minute meal prep.
Start by letting your cream cheese soften for about 10 minutes – trust me, this makes spreading so much easier. While that’s happening, you can lay out your tortillas and gather your other ingredients. I’ve found that assembly goes fastest when you create a little workspace with everything within arm’s reach. The actual rolling and cutting will take you 5 minutes tops, and if you’re making these ahead, add just 2 minutes to wrap them in plastic.
Equipment needed
The minimal equipment needed for these roll-ups makes them a breeze to prepare. You’ll need just a few basic kitchen items that you probably already have in your drawers. Here’s what to gather:
- A sturdy cutting board and sharp knife for slicing the rolled tortillas
- A butter knife or spatula for spreading cream cheese and pesto
- Paper towels to pat dry the spinach leaves
- Plastic wrap for storing finished roll-ups
- A large plate or work surface for assembly
I love how simple these tools are – when I’m making roll-ups for my family’s lunches, I can have everything laid out in seconds. You won’t need any fancy gadgets or special equipment, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your delicious creation.
Basic Cooking Method and Time
Once you’ve gathered your equipment, you’ll be happy to know these roll-ups don’t require any actual cooking time! The process is wonderfully simple – you’re just assembling and rolling. Start by laying out your tortillas and spreading a thin layer of softened cream cheese. Next, add your pesto, followed by turkey slices and fresh spinach leaves.
The rolling technique is key to success. Begin at one edge of the tortilla, keeping the ingredients in place as you roll tightly away from yourself. You’ll want to apply gentle pressure to guarantee everything stays compact. The entire assembly process takes about 10-15 minutes for all four rolls. If you’re planning to slice them, let them chill in the fridge for 30 minutes first – this makes cutting much easier.
Cooking Steps
Start your roll-up assembly by letting the cream cheese come to room temperature for easy spreading. While you’re waiting, lay out your flour tortillas on a clean work surface and gather your other ingredients within reach.
Once your cream cheese is softened, spread a thin, even layer on each tortilla, going right to the edges. Next, add a layer of basil pesto, but don’t overdo it – about 1 tablespoon per tortilla is perfect. Layer two slices of turkey on each tortilla, followed by a handful of fresh spinach leaves. Make sure you’ve patted the spinach dry to prevent soggy rolls.
Starting from the bottom edge, roll each tortilla tightly, tucking in the filling as you go. When you’re done, slice each roll into 1-inch pieces or leave them whole for lunch boxes.
Step 1. Soften Cream Cheese Thoroughly
Properly softened cream cheese makes all the difference when creating these delicious roll-ups. You’ll want to take your cream cheese out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before you start preparing your ingredients. While you’re waiting, gather everything else you’ll need for the recipe.
I’ve learned from experience that rushing this step can lead to lumpy spreading and torn tortillas. If you’re short on time, you can speed up the softening process by cutting the cream cheese into small cubes – they’ll reach room temperature faster. Just don’t microwave it, as that can make the texture inconsistent. You’ll know your cream cheese is ready when it’s completely smooth and spreads easily with a butter knife.
Step 2. Layer Tortillas With Pesto
The layers of fresh pesto create the signature Mediterranean flavor in these roll-ups. After you’ve softened your cream cheese, it’s time to spread a thin, even layer of bright green pesto across each tortilla. I’ve found that using about 1 tablespoon of pesto per tortilla gives you the perfect balance of flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Start at the center of the tortilla and work your way outward with gentle, sweeping motions. You’ll want to leave a half-inch border around the edges – this prevents the pesto from squishing out when you roll them up later. If your pesto seems too thick, you can thin it slightly with a teaspoon of olive oil to make spreading easier.
Step 3. Add Turkey and Spinach
Now that your pesto layer is perfectly spread, let’s build the protein-packed layers that make these roll-ups so satisfying. Start by laying 2 slices of turkey across each tortilla, slightly overlapping them to create an even surface. Don’t worry if they hang over the edges a bit – we’ll tuck those in later.
Next, add a generous handful of fresh spinach leaves on top of the turkey. I like to create an even layer without overcrowding, which helps the roll-ups stay nice and tight. Make sure you’ve patted your spinach dry to prevent any excess moisture from making your tortilla soggy. Trust me, I learned this the hard way after making hundreds of these for catering events!
Step 4. Roll and Wrap Tightly
Starting from the edge closest to you, firmly grasp the tortilla and begin rolling it away from your body, keeping the ingredients snug as you go. You’ll want to maintain gentle pressure throughout the rolling process to guarantee everything stays in place. If any filling starts to escape from the sides, just tuck it back in as you roll.
Once you’ve rolled the entire tortilla, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap – this is essential for keeping everything fresh and preventing the roll from unwinding. I’ve learned that if you’re planning to slice the roll-ups, it’s best to refrigerate them for about 30 minutes first. This helps the cream cheese firm up, making your cuts clean and neat. When you’re ready to serve, use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 1-inch pieces.
Step 5. Slice Into Serving Portions
Once you’ve chilled your wrapped roll-ups for at least 30 minutes, grab a sharp serrated knife to create perfect portions. You’ll want to slice each roll-up into pieces that are about 1-inch thick, using a gentle sawing motion to prevent squishing the filling. I’ve found that wiping your knife clean between cuts helps maintain those picture-perfect spiral edges.
For appetizer-sized bites, cut your roll-ups into pinwheels. If you’re packing them for lunch, you might prefer leaving them whole or cutting them in half diagonally. Don’t forget to stand the pieces upright on your serving platter to show off those beautiful layers of turkey, pesto, and spinach. They’ll look so inviting, your guests won’t be able to resist!
Customization Options
While the classic basil pesto turkey roll-up is delicious on its own, I love experimenting with different ingredients to create exciting new variations. Let me share some of my favorite swaps that you can try:
- Replace turkey with prosciutto, roasted chicken, or smoked salmon
- Swap traditional basil pesto for sun-dried tomato or olive pesto
- Try different greens like arugula or butter lettuce instead of spinach
- Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor
- Use flavored cream cheese like herb or garlic & chive
You can also make these gluten-free by using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas, or try using grain-free wraps if you’re watching your carbs. I’ve found that hummus makes a great substitute for cream cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Ingredients list (with precise measurements)
Now that we’ve explored various ways to customize these roll-ups, let’s get specific about exactly what you’ll need to make the classic version. I’ve tested these measurements multiple times in my kitchen, and they’ll give you perfect results every time:
- 8 slices of your favorite deli turkey (about 8 ounces)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, brought to room temperature
- 1/4 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch diameter works best)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
You’ll notice I’ve specified room temperature cream cheese – trust me, it’s non-negotiable for smooth spreading! These ingredients will make four generous roll-ups, which you can slice into bite-sized pieces or enjoy whole.
Storage Information
To keep your basil pesto turkey roll-ups fresh and delicious, you’ll want to store them properly in your refrigerator. After preparing your roll-ups, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 24 hours when stored at 40°F or below.
If you’re packing these for lunch, I’ve found that using a cold pack helps maintain their texture and prevents the cream cheese from becoming too soft. For meal prep, you can make several roll-ups at once, but don’t slice them until you’re ready to eat. Trust me on this – pre-sliced roll-ups tend to dry out faster. Remember to keep them away from strong-smelling foods in your fridge, as tortillas can absorb other odors pretty easily.
Health Benefits or Special Features
Since these turkey roll-ups pack both protein and vegetables into one convenient meal, they’re an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. You’ll get lean protein from the turkey, healthy fats from the pesto, and essential vitamins from fresh spinach leaves. I love how these roll-ups help me stay on track with my nutrition goals while still enjoying delicious flavors.
The versatility of these roll-ups is another great feature. You can easily make them gluten-free by using alternative wraps, or boost their nutritional value by adding sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots. If you’re watching your calories, try using light cream cheese and reducing the pesto amount – they’ll still taste amazing! These handheld meals are perfect for busy days when you need sustained energy.
Prep Time
Making these roll-ups fits perfectly into a busy schedule, as you’ll need just 15-20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 5 minutes gathering your ingredients and letting the cream cheese soften at room temperature. Then, you’ll only need 10 minutes to assemble everything.
The actual rolling process is quick once you’ve got your workflow down. I like to lay out all four tortillas at once and assembly-line the process: spread cream cheese on each, add the pesto layer, arrange the turkey slices, and top with spinach. You’ll be surprised how fast you can roll these up with a little practice. If you’re meal prepping, give yourself an extra 5 minutes to wrap them properly for storage.
Cook Time
One of the best parts about basil pesto turkey roll-ups is that they require absolutely no cooking time! You’ll simply assemble your ingredients and create these delicious wraps without ever turning on the stove or oven.
I love making these roll-ups when it’s too hot to cook or when I’m short on time. All you’ll need to do is verify your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy spreading – about 30 minutes on the counter should do it. While you’re waiting, gather your other ingredients and get ready to roll. The actual assembly takes just 10-15 minutes, and you’ll have a meal that’s ready to enjoy immediately. If you’re meal prepping, they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Total Time
The total time for these basil pesto turkey roll-ups comes in at about 45 minutes, but don’t let that number scare you! Most of that time is spent letting the cream cheese come to room temperature, which takes around 30-35 minutes. You’ll only need about 10 minutes of actual hands-on prep time.
While you’re waiting for the cream cheese to soften, you can gather your other ingredients and clear your workspace. Trust me, having everything ready makes the assembly process quick and enjoyable. I love that I can use this waiting time to catch up on emails or tidy up the kitchen. Once your cream cheese is ready, you’ll fly through the rolling and cutting steps in no time!
Yield
From this recipe you’ll get 32 bite-sized pieces, which is perfect for serving a small gathering or meal prepping your lunch for the week. You can also choose to keep the rolls whole, which will give you four substantial wraps instead – great for those times when you want a more filling meal.
If you’re planning to serve these at a party, I’d recommend cutting them into pinwheels and arranging them on a platter with some extra pesto for dipping. When I make these for my family’s lunch boxes, I usually keep them whole and wrap them individually. You’ll find that one whole wrap is quite satisfying, especially when paired with some fresh fruit or a small side salad.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to shake up your lunch routine or need an easy party appetizer, these basil pesto turkey roll-ups won’t disappoint. You’ll love how quickly they come together, and their versatility means you can adapt them to suit your taste preferences. I’ve found that these roll-ups are always a hit at potlucks and office gatherings.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – there’s no cooking required, yet you’ll get restaurant-quality results every time. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spreads or vegetables to make them your own. Just remember to keep the ingredients fresh and roll them tightly for the best presentation. Trust me, once you’ve mastered these roll-ups, they’ll become your go-to recipe for easy, delicious meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh Spinach Leaves?
You shouldn’t use frozen spinach as it’s too wet and mushy. It’ll make your roll-ups soggy. Stick with fresh spinach leaves, but make sure to pat them dry first.
What Other Spreads Can Replace Cream Cheese for a Dairy-Free Version?
While cream cheese brings creaminess, you’ll find dairy-free alternatives just as smooth. Try hummus, mashed avocado, dairy-free cream cheese, or cashew spread to keep your roll-ups rich and satisfying.
How Do You Prevent the Tortillas From Cracking While Rolling?
Warm your tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or on a skillet until they’re pliable. Don’t overfill them, and press firmly while rolling to keep them intact.
Will Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Tortillas Work Just as Well?
You’ll be thrilled to know both options work amazingly well! While whole wheat tortillas roll perfectly, gluten-free ones can be slightly more delicate, so you’ll want to warm them briefly first.
Can These Roll-Ups Be Frozen for Longer Storage?
You shouldn’t freeze these roll-ups since cream cheese and fresh spinach don’t hold up well when frozen. They’ll become watery and lose their texture when thawed out.
Conclusion
You’ll find these pesto turkey roll-ups are a game-changer for quick meals and entertaining. They’ve proven to be my go-to solution when I need something that’s both impressive and effortless. I’ve tested dozens of variations, but this combination of cream cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic pesto consistently delivers the best results. Give them a try – you’ll wonder why you didn’t discover these Mediterranean-inspired wraps sooner.
