These Smoked Salmon Pinwheels are a fun and tasty appetizer! With cream cheese, fresh herbs, and rolled into tortillas, they look fancy but are super easy to make.
Perfect for parties or a quick snack, I love how colorful they are. Plus, they don’t take long to prepare, which means more time to enjoy with friends. Who doesn’t love easy recipes? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Salmon: This is the star of the dish! Look for good-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try smoked trout or even thinly sliced turkey for a different taste.
Cream Cheese: I always go for full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist!
Dill: Fresh dill elevates the flavor of the pinwheels. If dill isn’t your thing, fresh chives or tarragon work well as substitutes, bringing their own unique tastes to the dish.
Lemon Juice: The juice adds a nice zing! If you don’t have lemon, lime juice is a great alternative. It adds a different citrus note that can be very refreshing.
How Do You Roll Perfect Pinwheels?
Rolling pinwheels can be tricky, but with these tips, it’ll be a breeze! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with the smoked salmon laid flat in a rectangle. Overlapping helps keep the pinwheel together.
- Be generous with spreading the cream cheese mixture, but leave a small edge to make rolling easier.
- Use the plastic wrap to help you roll tightly. Pull the wrap as you go to keep the roll intact.
- Chill the rolled pinwheel before cutting—it makes slicing cleaner and prevents the filling from spilling out.
These tips will help you create beautiful and delicious pinwheels every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Smoked Salmon Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz smoked salmon slices
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp capers, drained and chopped
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Perfect for a quick snack or an impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, minced shallot, chopped dill, parsley, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix everything together well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is going to be the delicious filling for your pinwheels!
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Lay out the smoked salmon slices flat on a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Make sure to overlap the slices a bit to form a nice rectangular shape. This will help keep everything together when you roll it up.
3. Spread the Filling:
Now, take the cream cheese mixture and evenly spread it over the salmon, leaving a small edge at one end clear of filling. This will make rolling easier and less messy.
4. Roll it Up:
Starting from the edge closest to you, begin rolling the salmon and cream cheese mixture tightly into a log shape. Use the plastic wrap to help guide the roll as you go to keep it nice and tight.
5. Chill the Log:
Wrap the rolled log securely with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the pinwheels hold their shape when you cut them.
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
After chilling, take the log out of the fridge and unwrap it. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch thick pieces. You should have beautiful little pinwheels!
7. Arrange and Garnish:
Place the pinwheels on a serving platter. For added flair, garnish each pinwheel with a few capers and a sprig of fresh dill. They’ll look fancy and inviting!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
These pinwheels are best served chilled. They’re perfect as an elegant appetizer or a fun party snack. Enjoy every tasty bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, try using soft cheese spreads like goat cheese or ricotta. They both add a different flavor but will still work well in the pinwheels.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolled pinwheel log a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Slice them just before serving for the best presentation!
What Can I Serve With Smoked Salmon Pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair perfectly with a light salad, fresh veggies, or even some crispy crackers. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a glass of sparkling wine or champagne!
