Smoked salmon pinwheels are a tasty and fun finger food! They feature creamy cheese and fresh herbs rolled up with smoked salmon in a soft tortilla. Perfect for parties!
These little bites are easy to make, and they look fancy too! I love serving them with toothpicks for a delightful appetizer. Trust me, they disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked salmon: This is the star of the dish! You can use any smoked fish if salmon isn’t available, like trout or even smoked mackerel for a twist.
Cream cheese: For a lighter option, you can swap regular cream cheese with a low-fat or dairy-free version. Greek yogurt also makes a great tangy alternative!
Dill and chives: Fresh herbs are ideal, but if you can’t find them, dried herbs work too. Use about one-third the amount of dried as you would fresh.
Lemon juice and zest: If you don’t have a fresh lemon, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh adds brighter flavor. Vinegar can be a substitute if necessary.
Shallots: Red or green onions can replace shallots if you want a milder taste. They add a nice crunch.
How Do You Roll the Perfect Pinwheels Without Falling Apart?
The key to rolling your smoked salmon pinwheels tightly is to start from one edge and roll gently but firmly. Apply even pressure as you roll to avoid gaps. Here are some steps to help you:
- Ensure your cream cheese mixture is spread evenly to help the roll hold together.
- Keep the salmon slices overlapping slightly; this creates a sturdy base.
- Don’t roll too tightly at first, as you can accidentally tear the salmon. Aim for a snug fit.
- Use plastic wrap to shape the roll tightly; this helps it set better in the fridge.
Remember to chill your roll well; a firmer log is much easier to slice into neat pinwheels!
Smoked Salmon Pinwheels
Ingredients:
- 8 oz smoked salmon slices
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small shallot, finely minced (optional)
- Fried or crispy shallots for garnish (optional)
- Lettuce or mixed greens for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to chill. With a little bit of waiting, you’ll have delicious smoked salmon pinwheels ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dill, chives, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste!
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Lay out the smoked salmon slices flat on a clean surface. Arrange them slightly overlapping each other to create a large rectangle that’s ready to be filled.
3. Spread the Cream Cheese:
Using a small spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the smoked salmon, making sure to cover it all for the best flavor.
4. Add Shallots (Optional):
If you like extra flavor, sprinkle the finely minced shallot evenly over the cream cheese layer. This step adds a nice crunch!
5. Roll It Up:
Carefully and gently roll the salmon and cream cheese into a tight log, starting from one edge. Take your time to avoid tearing the salmon.
6. Chill the Roll:
Wrap the rolled log in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps it firm up, making it easier to cut later.
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
Once ready to serve, unwrap the roll and use a sharp knife to cut it into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Make sure to slice gently to keep the pinwheels intact!
8. Arrange and Garnish:
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving plate. For a lovely touch, garnish with extra dill sprigs and crispy fried shallots for added texture and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Optionally, you can serve the pinwheels with fresh mixed greens or lettuce on the side for a delightful presentation.
Enjoy these elegant and flavorful smoked salmon pinwheels as a delightful appetizer or party snack! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works just fine and still provides that creamy texture you want. You can also try Greek yogurt for a lighter option with a tangy flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! You can substitute dried herbs, but use about one-third the amount. If you’re out of dill or chives, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or basil.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If they’re not cut yet, it’s best to keep them whole until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and roll the pinwheels a day in advance. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!