Zesty Italian Pinwheels are a tasty, colorful snack made with fresh tortillas, creamy cheese, and lots of tasty Italian meats. It’s like a little party in every bite!
Making these pinwheels is super fun! I love rolling them up tight and slicing them into pretty rounds. They disappear fast at gatherings—who can resist such a yummy treat?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are perfect for pinwheels, but you can also use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added flavor and color.
Cream cheese: This gives a creamy texture; however, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar are a great combo, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Italian meats: Pepperoni and salami are classic, but you can swap them with turkey pepperoni or even prosciutto for a different flavor. You can also use roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Seasoning: Italian seasoning brings out great flavor. If you’re out, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme as an easy substitute. Fresh herbs like basil or chives can also brighten the dish!
How Do I Roll Pinwheels without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling pinwheels tightly is key to keeping them together. Here’s how to get it right:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the entire tortilla, reaching the edges for a full flavor.
- Start rolling from one edge and go slowly, squeezing gently as you roll to keep it tight.
- Once rolled, let the pinwheel rest seam side down for a minute to help it hold its shape before slicing.
These tips will ensure clean, beautiful slices that hold everything together nicely. Enjoy making your pinwheels!
How to Make Zesty Italian Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 slices pepperoni
- 12 slices salami or other Italian deli meats
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Dipping:
- Marinara or pizza sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes of your time. You’ll be enjoying these delicious pinwheels in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your pinwheels bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the pinwheels don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Stir everything until it’s well blended and creamy.
3. Assemble the Tortillas:
Take one tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread about a quarter of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire tortilla, making sure to cover the edges for the best flavor.
4. Add the Meats:
Next, layer 3 slices of pepperoni and 3 slices of salami on top of the cream cheese mixture, distributing them evenly across the tortilla.
5. Roll the Tortilla:
Starting from one edge, carefully and tightly roll up the tortilla into a log shape. This keeps all the tasty ingredients inside!
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Try to make the cuts smooth to keep from squishing the filling!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Place the pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each one so they have room to bake nicely.
8. Bake Them:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges look lightly golden.
9. Cool and Serve:
Remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter.
10. Garnish and Dip:
Sprinkle the pinwheels with a bit of extra fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them warm with marinara or pizza sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy those zesty, savory bites!
These zesty Italian pinwheels are perfect for parties, snacks, or even a fun lunch. Enjoy the cheesy, herby goodness every time!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels up to the rolling stage, cover them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Freeze the Pinwheels?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked pinwheels. Just roll them up, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, bake directly from the freezer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for the Italian Meats?
If you’d like to make these pinwheels vegetarian, you can replace the meats with thinly sliced bell peppers, olives, or spinach. You can also add any favorite veggies for variety while keeping the flavor delicious!