why make this recipe
Italian Pinwheels with Cream Cheese are a perfect choice for any gathering or snack time. They are easy to make, fun to eat, and pack a lot of flavor. These pinwheels are great for parties, picnics, or just a quick meal at home. You can prepare them ahead of time, and they make for a delicious and satisfying finger food.
how to make Italian Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
Ingredients:
- 3 large burrito size flour tortillas
- 15 slices salami
- 15 slices pepperoni
- 6 slices deli ham
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 3 leaves green leaf lettuce
- 8 oz. softened cream cheese
- 1 Tbsp. Italian dressing
- 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini, chopped small
- 1/2 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped small
Directions:
- Combine the softened cream cheese, Italian dressing, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, pepperoncini, and roasted red bell peppers in a medium-sized bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Spread about 1/4 cup of the cream cheese mixture on each tortilla or enough to cover the tortilla completely.
- Layer the ingredients on top of the cream cheese, a little off-center in an even layer, adding salami, pepperoni, ham, cheese, and lettuce.
- Tightly roll the tortilla into a spiral. If not serving right away, chill the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator.
- When ready to serve, slice the rolled tortillas into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and ingredients.
how to serve Italian Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
These pinwheels can be served cold or at room temperature. Arrange them on a platter and they’re ready for your guests to enjoy. You can also pair them with a light dip or a side salad for a complete meal.
how to store Italian Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
To store any leftover pinwheels, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to slice them before serving for the best presentation.
tips to make Italian Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy spreading.
- You can mix and match the deli meats and cheeses based on your preferences.
- Try adding other veggies, like spinach or cucumbers, for extra crunch and flavor.
- For a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a spicier dressing.
variation (if any)
While the traditional recipe uses salami, pepperoni, and deli ham, you can easily switch these out for turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options. Additionally, experimenting with different flavored cream cheeses can add a special twist to this classic recipe.
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and refrigerate until serving.
What can I serve with Italian Pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair well with dips like ranch or Italian dressing, and they are also great with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.
Can I freeze the pinwheels?
While it’s not recommended to freeze them after rolling, you can freeze the cream cheese mixture separately and make fresh pinwheels when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Italian Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the softened cream cheese, Italian dressing, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, pepperoncini, and roasted red bell peppers in a medium-sized bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Spread about 1/4 cup of the cream cheese mixture on each tortilla or enough to cover the tortilla completely.
- Layer the ingredients on top of the cream cheese, a little off-center in an even layer, adding salami, pepperoni, ham, cheese, and lettuce.
- Tightly roll the tortilla into a spiral. If not serving right away, chill the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator.
- When ready to serve, slice the rolled tortillas into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and ingredients.