Italian Pinwheel Sandwiches

These Italian pinwheel sandwiches are a delicious and colorful appetizer packed with layers of savory meats, crisp veggies, and a creamy Italian spread. Wrapped in soft flour tortillas, they make the perfect bite-sized snack for parties, game days, or an easy lunch on the go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 15 minutes.
• Perfect for parties – A great appetizer or finger food.
• Packed with flavor – A delicious combination of creamy, smoky, and tangy flavors.
• Customizable – Adjust the ingredients to your taste preferences.
• Great for meal prep – Make ahead and store for later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Italian Cream Cheese Spread

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup good-quality mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Pinwheels

• 4 large burrito-size flour tortillas
• Italian Cream Cheese Spread (from above)
• 4 cups finely shredded romaine lettuce
• ¼ sweet onion, very thinly sliced
• 4 roma tomatoes, very thinly sliced
• 8 ounces thinly sliced salami
• 8 ounces thinly sliced capocollo
• 8 ounces thinly sliced smoked ham

Directions

Prepare the Italian Cream Cheese Spread

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix until smooth and well blended. Set aside at room temperature.

Assemble the Pinwheels

2. Lay the flour tortillas on a clean work surface. Evenly spread the Italian cream cheese mixture over each tortilla.
3. Sprinkle shredded romaine lettuce evenly over the cream cheese layer.
4. Add thinly sliced sweet onions and roma tomatoes on top of the lettuce.
5. Layer the salami, capocollo, and smoked ham evenly over the tortillas.

Roll and Slice

6. Tightly roll each tortilla into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside.
7. Secure each roll with toothpicks to hold its shape.
8. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the rolls into 1-inch pinwheels.

Serve and Enjoy!

9. Arrange the pinwheels on a platter and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add crushed red pepper flakes or banana peppers for heat.
• Cheese Lovers – Mix grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella into the cream cheese spread.
• Low-Carb Option – Use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a keto-friendly version.
• Veggie-Packed – Add roasted red peppers, spinach, or artichoke hearts.
• Deli Meat Swap – Use turkey, roast beef, or prosciutto instead of ham and capocollo.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Make-Ahead Tip – Assemble and refrigerate whole rolls, then slice just before serving for fresher pinwheels.
• Avoid Freezing – The texture of the lettuce and cream cheese may become watery when thawed.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pinwheels a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to serve.

2. What’s the best way to keep pinwheels from unrolling?

Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before slicing, or secure them with toothpicks.

3. Can I use different tortillas?

Yes, spinach, whole wheat, or sun-dried tomato tortillas add extra flavor.

4. What’s the best way to slice pinwheels without them falling apart?

Use a sharp serrated knife and cut with a gentle sawing motion.

5. Can I add cheese slices instead of cream cheese?

Yes, provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella slices work well as substitutes.

6. How do I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas or lettuce wraps instead.

7. Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used instead of mayo.

8. What’s the best dip to serve with these?

Marinara sauce, Italian dressing, or ranch make great dipping options.

9. Can I add pesto to the cream cheese spread?

Yes, a spoonful of pesto adds a great basil and garlic flavor.

10. Are these pinwheels good for kids?

Yes! If serving for kids, you can use milder deli meats like turkey or ham.

Conclusion

These Italian pinwheel sandwiches are a flavorful, easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for parties, lunches, or quick snacks. Packed with savory meats, creamy spread, and fresh veggies, they’re a hit for any occasion. Try different variations to customize them to your taste and enjoy this simple, delicious recipe!

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