Vegetable Cheese Squares (Cold Pizza)
Creamy vegetable cheese squares feature a flaky crescent roll crust topped with a savory cream cheese mixture and fresh vegetable toppings, perfect as an appetizer or light snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Unroll the crescent rolls and gently pat them into a cookie sheet to form the crust.
- Bake according to the package directions until golden brown.
- In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, bottled creamy buttermilk dressing, and crushed dill weed or basil.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Top with desired vegetable toppings and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting the creamy buttermilk dressing with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley instead of dill. If you want a little heat, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the vegetable toppings. Be sure to evenly spread the cream cheese mixture for the best flavor in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
These Vegetable Cheese Squares are perfect for parties or as a light lunch option. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with a refreshing fruit salad, making it a delightful spread for summer gatherings. Consider offering a variety of vegetable toppings to cater to different tastes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispiness of the crust, it's best to keep the toppings separate until ready to serve. If you prefer a warm snack, you can reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 20 seconds, but they are best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Cheese Squares (Cold Pizza) contains roughly 318 calories, with 15g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 626mg per serving (27% 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 use a different type of dressing instead of creamy buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute the creamy buttermilk dressing with ranch dressing or a light vinaigrette for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on the thickness of the dressing to achieve the desired consistency in the cream cheese mixture.
What vegetables work best for the toppings?
You can use a variety of vegetables depending on your preference. Popular choices include bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and shredded carrots. For a more savory option, consider adding olives or artichokes. Feel free to mix and match to create your favorite combination.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the crust and spread the cream cheese mixture a day ahead. Just wait to add the vegetable toppings until a few hours before serving to keep them fresh. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings or meal prep.
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).