Penny'S Veggie Bars
Creamy veggie bars with a flaky crescent roll crust and a flavorful cream cheese filling, perfect for snacking or casual gatherings, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Press dough from one package of crescent rolls onto an ungreased cookie sheet into a 9 x 12-inch rectangle.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Repeat with the second package of crescent rolls.
- Allow to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or green onions to the cream cheese mixture. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier option. If you're short on time, try using store-bought ranch dressing instead of the envelope mix for convenience. These adjustments can enhance both the taste and texture of your veggie bars.
Serving Suggestions
These veggie bars make a great appetizer or snack and pair beautifully with Quick & Tasty Tuna Salad for a light lunch. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or with a dipping sauce like ranch or hummus for added flavor. They are perfect for potlucks or parties, where they can be enjoyed by both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover veggie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispness, it's best to keep them uncut until serving. If you want to reheat them, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, just until warmed through, to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penny'S Veggie Bars contains roughly 859 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% 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 make these veggie bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crusts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the cream cheese topping just before serving to keep the bars fresh and prevent sogginess. This makes them an excellent choice for parties or gatherings, as you can save time on the day of the event.
What vegetables work best for the topping?
You can use a variety of vegetables depending on your preference. Popular choices include shredded carrots, diced tomatoes, and finely chopped spinach. Just make sure to pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can make the bars soggy. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables to keep it fresh and exciting.
Can I freeze the veggie bars?
It's best to freeze the crusts separately from the cream cheese mixture. You can freeze the baked crusts for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw them in the fridge, then spread the topping before enjoying. Freezing the assembled bars is not recommended, as the texture may change.
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).