Smoked Salmon Pinwheels: A Festive Appetizer Delight

Smoked Salmon Pinwheels are the perfect blend of elegance and ease—ideal for holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, or as a simple yet stunning starter. These bite-sized delights combine the rich, smoky flavor of salmon with a creamy, herby spread, all wrapped in soft tortillas for a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you because it’s one of those crowd-pleasers that delivers every time. Whether you’re hosting or attending a festive event, these pinwheels are sure to impress! Let’s get rolling.

Why You’ll Love These Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite herbs, add veggies, or use flavored tortillas for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: While they scream “holidays,” they’re equally suited for brunches or casual get-togethers.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and let the flavors meld together for an even tastier result.

The Taste of Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

Imagine the creamy tang of dill-spiked cream cheese meeting the silky, smoky richness of salmon—all encased in a soft, pillowy tortilla. The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note, tying everything together beautifully. Every bite is a delightful mix of texture and flavor, making these pinwheels completely irresistible.

Ingredients for Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

To make these festive treats, you’ll need:

• 4 large flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for rolling.
• 8 oz smoked salmon: Thinly sliced, high-quality salmon is key.
• 4 oz cream cheese: Softened for easy spreading.
• 2 tbsp fresh dill: Adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the dish with citrusy zing.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for balancing flavors.

Essential Tools for Preparation

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon for spreading
• Sharp knife for slicing
• Cutting board
• Serving platter

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Herbs: Swap dill for chives, parsley, or a mix of your favorites.
• Tortillas: Experiment with spinach or whole-wheat tortillas for added flavor and color.
• Extras: Add thinly sliced cucumbers or avocado for extra layers of texture.
• Cheese: Try flavored cream cheese, like chive and onion, for a twist.

How to Make Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

this Recipe

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-incorporated.

2. Assemble the Pinwheels

Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla, ensuring you leave a small border around the edges to prevent overflow.

3. Add the Smoked Salmon

Layer the thinly sliced smoked salmon evenly over the cream cheese spread.

4. Roll and Slice

Starting at one edge, roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape. Use a sharp knife to slice the logs into 1-inch pinwheels.

5. Serve and Garnish

Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh dill or a drizzle of lemon juice for an extra festive touch.

6. Chill

For best results, refrigerate the pinwheels for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps them hold their shape and enhances the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Platter: Pair with other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms, cheese platters, or bruschetta.
• Brunch Spread: Serve alongside bagels, lox, and a fresh fruit salad.
• Casual Snacking: These pinwheels are a hit with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water.

Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

1. Spread Evenly: A consistent layer of cream cheese ensures every bite is flavorful.
2. Roll Tightly: A snug roll prevents the filling from spilling out.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality salmon and fresh dill make all the difference.
4. Chill Before Serving: This step is crucial for clean slices and cohesive pinwheels.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture of the tortillas and salmon can change upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them up to a day in advance and keep them tightly covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have fresh dill?

Dried dill can be used in a pinch—just reduce the quantity to 1 tsp, as dried herbs are more potent.

Can I use a different type of tortilla?

Yes! Spinach, sun-dried tomato, or gluten-free tortillas work wonderfully and add color and flavor.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives?

Swap the smoked salmon for roasted red peppers or thinly sliced cucumbers for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Wrap-Up

Smoked Salmon Pinwheels are a delightful combination of simplicity and sophistication. They’re a breeze to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to shine on any table. Whether you’re gearing up for a festive feast or just want to treat yourself to something special, these pinwheels won’t disappoint.

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to explore more like it!

• Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
• Cheddar Cups with Avocado-Feta Mousse
• Rosemary Feta Christmas Tree Crackers

Have you tried this recipe? Leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest. I can’t wait to see your creations!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 120 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 8g | Carbohydrates: 8g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g

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