Italian Pinwheels: A Delicious, Make-Ahead Appetizer
When you’re looking for a party appetizer that is both incredibly delicious and wonderfully easy to make, these Italian Pinwheels are the perfect solution. They’re a fun and savory snack that brings together a creamy, herbed cream cheese base with layers of classic Italian meats and cheeses, all rolled up in a soft flour tortilla. This is a perfect make-ahead dish that is ideal for parties, game days, or a simple snack, and is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
Why I love This Recipe
I’m a firm believer that a great appetizer should be both easy to make and delicious to eat. What I love most about these Italian Pinwheels is that they are the definition of a “make-ahead” meal. You can assemble them the night before, refrigerate them, and simply slice and serve them when you’re ready. The flavors are what truly make them special. The creamy, herbed cream cheese base is a perfect contrast to the salty salami and pepperoni, and the provolone cheese adds a mild, savory flavor that ties everything together. They are a great, no-bake appetizer that is perfect for a hot day.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers (jarred)
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 8 slices salami
- 8 slices pepperoni
- 4 slices deli ham
Swaps and Notes
- Cream Cheese: Using full-fat cream cheese is key to the richness and creaminess of the filling. Ensure it is softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free mixture.
- Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are the perfect base for these pinwheels. You can also use a flavored tortilla, such as spinach or sun-dried tomato, for a different color and flavor.
- Meats and Cheeses: The combination of salami, pepperoni, ham, and provolone cheese is a classic. You can easily swap the meats for other deli meats like turkey or roast beef, and other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
- Herbs and Seasoning: Fresh basil and Italian seasoning are what give the cream cheese mixture its classic Italian flavor. You can also add other fresh herbs like parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Add-ins: This is a very flexible recipe. You can add other ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, such as some diced artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or a little bit of finely chopped onion.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped roasted red peppers, chopped black olives, chopped fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season: Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble: Lay the four large flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Layer the Toppings: Layer the provolone cheese, salami, pepperoni, and deli ham evenly over the cream cheese mixture on each tortilla.
- Roll and Refrigerate: Tightly roll each tortilla into a log. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until they are firm.
- Slice and Serve: Before serving, unwrap the tortillas and use a sharp knife to slice them into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
Tips for Success
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature and softened before you use it. This will help you create a smooth, easy-to-spread mixture.
- Roll Tightly: Rolling the tortillas tightly is crucial. This will ensure that the pinwheels hold their shape and don’t fall apart when you slice them.
- Refrigerate: The refrigeration step is essential. It allows the cream cheese to firm up and the flavors to meld together, which makes slicing the pinwheels clean and easy.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is key to slicing the pinwheels cleanly. A dull knife will squish the rolls and make them look messy.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Italian Pinwheels are perfect as a party appetizer, a light lunch, or a quick snack. They pair beautifully with a simple side salad or a bowl of olives.
For a drink pairing, a light-bodied red wine or a simple iced tea would be a great complement to the savory, cheesy flavors.
Nutritional Information
(Please note that this is an estimate and will vary based on specific brands and portion sizes)
This is a savory and delicious appetizer. The calories and fat come from the cream cheese, deli meats, and cheeses. While it is an indulgent treat, it’s a wonderfully satisfying snack that is perfect for a special occasion or a fun get-together.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftovers of these pinwheels are fantastic! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best served chilled.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Pinwheels recipe is a timeless classic for a reason. It’s a comforting, delicious, and easy meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of a creamy, herbed filling and savory meats is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy this effortless and delicious treat as much as I do!
Italian Pinwheels: The Perfect Make-Ahead Party Appetizer
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 4 oz sliced salami
- 4 oz sliced ham
- 4 oz sliced provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach or arugula
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla.
- Layer the salami, ham, provolone cheese, spinach, and roasted red peppers evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Remove from the refrigerator, and slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to serve.
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