Q1: Can I substitute the basil pesto with something else if I don't have it on hand?

Yes, you can substitute the basil pesto with several alternatives while keeping this recipe gluten-free. Sun-dried tomato pesto works wonderfully and provides a tangy flavor profile. You could also use hummus (ensure it's gluten-free), which adds creaminess and protein, or simply mash avocado with a bit of lemon juice and garlic for a fresh alternative. When spreading your substitute in Step 2, use the same amount (approximately 1/2 tablespoon per slice) and follow the same technique of leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.

Q2: How long can I store these roll-ups, and do I need to keep the toothpicks in during storage?

As mentioned in Step 6, these roll-ups can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making them excellent for meal prep. If you've secured them with toothpicks as described in Step 5, you can leave them in during storage as they help maintain the roll's shape, especially for the first day or two. However, after the rolls have been refrigerated for several hours, the pesto acts as a natural adhesive and the rolls typically hold together well on their own. For safety and convenience when eating, you may want to remove the toothpicks before packing them in lunchboxes or serving to children.

Q3: What if my turkey slices are too thick or keep tearing when I try to roll them?

If your turkey breast slices are too thick or tearing during Step 4, there are a few solutions. You can place the turkey slices between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to make them thinner and more pliable. Alternatively, look for deli-style turkey breast that's sliced thin (about 1-2mm thick) at your grocery store's deli counter. Make sure to pat them dry as instructed in Step 1, as excess moisture can make the turkey more prone to tearing. When rolling in Step 4, use a gentle but firm touch and roll slowly to prevent rips while still creating a compact cylinder.

Q4: Are there any gluten-containing ingredients I need to watch out for to keep this recipe truly gluten-free?

While this recipe is designed to be gluten-free, the main ingredient to verify is the basil pesto used in Step 2. Some commercial pestos may contain gluten as a thickener or in added ingredients, so always check the label or make your own pesto from scratch using basil, pine nuts, parmesan, garlic, and olive oil. Additionally, if you're using pre-packaged deli turkey breast slices, verify they haven't been processed with gluten-containing additives or cross-contamination. The fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese listed in the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always confirm that any optional ingredients or substitutions you add maintain the gluten-free status of the recipe.

Pesto Turkey Roll-Ups

These Pesto Turkey Roll-Ups are the perfect solution for anyone seeking a satisfying, protein-packed lunch without the carbs and gluten found in traditional sandwiches. Inspired by Italian antipasti platters and modern low-carb eating, these roll-ups transform simple deli turkey into an elegant, flavorful meal that's ready in minutes. The combination of aromatic basil pesto, fresh spinach leaves, and quality turkey breast creates layers of taste and texture that rival any sandwich.

What makes these roll-ups truly special is their versatility and convenience. They're naturally gluten-free, require zero cooking, and can be prepared in advance for meal prep throughout the week. The vibrant green pesto not only adds a burst of herbaceous flavor but also provides healthy fats that keep you satisfied for hours. Fresh spinach adds a nutritious crunch and extra vitamins, making each bite as wholesome as it is delicious.

Perfect for busy professionals, students, or anyone following a gluten-free or low-carb lifestyle, these roll-ups travel well in lunch boxes, stay fresh in the refrigerator, and can be customized with your favorite additions like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or cheese. They prove that eating healthy doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, a portable lunch, or a light dinner, these turkey roll-ups deliver maximum nutrition with minimal effort.

Julia

Recipe Author: Gluten-Free & Specialty Diet Chef

Nutrition

5 minutes

None servings

245 calories

Fat 14.00g

Carbs 3.00g

Protein 28.00g

Ingredients

8 slices	turkey breast slices, deli-style, about 1 oz each
4 tbsp	basil pesto, store-bought or homemade
1 cup	fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
4 whole	cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
2 oz	mozzarella cheese, sliced thin or shredded (optional)

Equipment

Cutting board

paper towels

spoon

airtight container

toothpicks

Clean Eating

Aligns perfectly with clean eating principles by using whole, minimally processed ingredients like fresh turkey, spinach, homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto, and fresh mozzarella.

Gluten-Free Diet

Completely gluten-free by design, using deli turkey slices instead of bread and featuring naturally gluten-free ingredients like pesto, spinach, and mozzarella cheese.

Ketogenic Diet

Ideal for keto with its high-fat pesto, low-carb turkey base, and zero grains. The mozzarella cheese and pesto provide healthy fats, while spinach adds nutrients without significant carbs, keeping the net carbs extremely low.

Low-Carb Diet

Perfect low-carb option that replaces traditional bread-based sandwiches with protein-packed turkey roll-ups. The recipe uses zero grains and focuses on lean protein, fresh vegetables, and minimal carbohydrate ingredients.

Instructions

Lay out the turkey breast slices on a clean cutting board or work surface, arranging them in a single layer with no overlap. Pat them dry with a paper towel if they appear moist to help the pesto adhere better.

1 min

Spread approximately 1/2 tablespoon of basil pesto evenly over each turkey slice, leaving a small border around the edges. Use the back of a spoon to create a thin, even layer that covers most of the surface.

2 min

Place 2-3 fresh spinach leaves on top of the pesto on each turkey slice, positioning them toward one end of the slice to make rolling easier. If using optional ingredients, add a thin slice of mozzarella and 1-2 cherry tomato halves on top of the spinach.

1 min

Starting from the end with the toppings, tightly roll each turkey slice into a compact cylinder. Roll firmly but gently to keep the filling secure without tearing the turkey. The pesto will help seal the roll-up.

1 min

Secure each roll-up with a toothpick through the center if needed, especially if preparing ahead. Arrange the roll-ups seam-side down on a plate or pack them into an airtight container for grab-and-go convenience.

Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. These roll-ups are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making them perfect for meal prep.

Pesto Turkey Roll-Ups

Nutrition

Ingredients

Equipment

On Diet

Clean Eating

Gluten-Free Diet

Ketogenic Diet

Low-Carb Diet

Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I substitute the basil pesto with something else if I don't have it on hand?

Q2: How long can I store these roll-ups, and do I need to keep the toothpicks in during storage?

Q3: What if my turkey slices are too thick or keep tearing when I try to roll them?

Q4: Are there any gluten-containing ingredients I need to watch out for to keep this recipe truly gluten-free?