Basil Dinner Rolls
Savory basil dinner rolls with a flavorful filling of basil, walnuts, and Parmesan, perfect as an appetizer or side for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine 6 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add warm water and beat until smooth.
- Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
- Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Punch dough down; knead several times.
- Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine chopped basil, chopped walnuts, and grated Parmesan cheese; reserve 2 tablespoons for topping.
- Shape dough into 32 balls.
- On a floured surface, roll each ball into a 4-inch circle.
- Place about 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons of basil mixture in the center of each.
- Pinch dough together over the filling.
- Place 16 rolls seam side down on each of two greased baking sheets, with rolls touching.
- Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 45 minutes.
- Brush tops with melted butter or margarine.
- Sprinkle with reserved basil mixture.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful roll, consider adding fresh garlic or herbs to the dough. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount to about 1 tablespoon. You can also substitute walnuts with pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Ensure the water temperature is precise to activate the yeast effectively.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious basil dinner rolls warm, perhaps alongside a fresh salad like Longhorn Cheese Salad or with a hearty soup. They make an excellent appetizer or side dish for any meal. For a special occasion, consider pairing them with a simple herb butter for an extra touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their softness. You can also microwave them briefly, wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Dinner Rolls contains roughly 167 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After kneading, refrigerate it overnight. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor. Just remember to let it come to room temperature and rise before shaping the rolls.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, it may be due to inactive yeast or incorrect water temperature. Ensure the water is warm but not hot, ideally between 120°F and 130°F. If you suspect the yeast is old, try activating it in warm water with a bit of sugar before mixing it into the dough.
Can I freeze the rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking as instructed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).