Italian Pinwheels

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Pinwheels are a flavorful and colorful appetizer made with soft tortillas, creamy cheese, and layers of Italian meats and vegetables. These bite-sized spirals are perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a quick snack. Their savory, zesty flavor and easy preparation make them a go-to crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour tortillascream cheese (softened)Italian seasoninggarlic powdersliced salamisliced pepperonisliced provolone or mozzarella cheeseroasted red peppers (sliced thin)baby spinach leavesbanana peppers (optional for a tangy kick)

directions

In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with Italian seasoning and garlic powder until well combined.

Lay a tortilla flat and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over the entire surface.

Layer slices of salami, pepperoni, and cheese evenly across the tortilla.

Top with a few strips of roasted red pepper, a handful of baby spinach, and banana peppers if using.

Tightly roll up the tortilla into a log, pressing gently as you roll.

Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Unwrap and slice the log into 1-inch pinwheels.

Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 pinwheels.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of roasted red peppers for a deeper flavor.

Swap spinach for arugula for a peppery bite.

Try flavored tortillas like spinach or tomato for extra color and taste.

Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese for heat.

Include thinly sliced cucumbers or olives for more texture.

storage/reheating

Store Italian Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the cream cheese and tortillas may change.
Serve straight from the fridge or let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for prepping a day in advance. Just keep them wrapped until ready to slice and serve.

What kind of tortillas work best?
Large, soft flour tortillas roll and hold together the best.

Can I use other meats?
Absolutely—turkey, ham, or prosciutto work well too.

How do I keep them from unrolling?
Chilling before slicing helps, and spreading the filling evenly all the way to the edges creates a natural seal.

Can I use shredded cheese?
Sliced cheese works better for layering, but shredded can be used in a pinch.

Are Italian Pinwheels spicy?
Not usually, but you can make them spicier with hot salami or crushed red pepper.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free tortillas.

How thin should I slice the pinwheels?
About 1 inch thick for the best balance of structure and flavor.

Do I need to use plastic wrap?
It’s the easiest way to help them hold shape while chilling.

Can kids eat these?
Definitely! You can even tone down the seasonings or skip the banana peppers if needed.

Conclusion

Italian Pinwheels are an easy, tasty, and visually appealing snack or appetizer that brings the bold flavors of Italian deli favorites into one fun bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or packing a lunch, these pinwheels are sure to impress with their vibrant look and satisfying taste.

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