Elegant Smoked Salmon Pinwheels Recipe: A Fancy Yet Simple Treat

Delightful smoked salmon pinwheels dance across platters, promising an elegant appetizer that impresses without stress.

Cream cheese and fresh herbs create a luxurious spread perfect for entertaining.

Soft tortillas become the canvas for these delectable rolls.

Every bite promises a burst of maritime flavors and creamy textures.

Sophisticated yet simple, these pinwheels require minimal kitchen skills and maximum flavor potential.

Quick assembly means you can focus on enjoying the moment instead of complicated preparation.

Gather your ingredients and let’s craft something memorably delicious that will spark conversation at any gathering.

What Pairs Well with Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, smoky salmon and creamy texture of the pinwheels.
• Create Sparkling Accompaniment: Pop open a dry champagne or prosecco to cut through the cream cheese's richness and enhance the appetizer's delicate flavors.
• Match with Herbal Cocktail: Mix a classic gin martini with a dill garnish to echo the herb in the recipe and provide a sophisticated drinking experience.
• Serve Alongside Light Refreshment: Pour a cucumber-infused water or light herbal tea to cleanse the palate between bites and balance the salmon's intensity.

Smoked Salmon Pinwheel Variants

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat tortillas with large gluten-free wraps or thin rice paper to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive guests.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap cream cheese for cashew-based cream cheese or dairy-free herb spread made from blended tofu and fresh herbs.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute tortillas with large lettuce leaves or thinly sliced cucumber rounds for a lighter, carbohydrate-reduced version.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Replace smoked salmon with roasted red pepper strips, grilled zucchini, or marinated artichoke hearts for plant-based protein and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of fish instead of smoked salmon?

Yes, you can substitute smoked salmon with other smoked fish like trout or mackerel for a similar flavor profile.

• Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe contains dairy from cream cheese, so it’s not vegan or dairy-free. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free tortillas.

• How far in advance can I prepare these pinwheels?

You can prepare these pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

• What are some tips for rolling the tortillas to get perfect pinwheels?

Roll the tortillas tightly and evenly, using gentle pressure. Chill the rolled log for 15-20 minutes before slicing to help them hold their shape better.

Reasons to Make Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

• Whip Up Effortlessly: These pinwheels require minimal cooking skills, making them perfect for novice cooks who want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Serve with Stunning Style: Elegant and visually appealing, these appetizers add a touch of sophistication to any gathering, from casual brunches to fancy cocktail parties.
• Customize Your Creation: Easily adaptable with different herbs, salmon types, or even alternative protein options, these pinwheels offer versatility for personal taste preferences.
• Quick Party Prep: Prepare these bite-sized treats in advance, allowing you to spend more time socializing and less time cooking during your event.

What You’ll Need for Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

• Tortillas: Soft, flexible base for the pinwheels.
• Smoked Salmon: Rich, flavorful protein centerpiece.
• Cream Cheese: Creamy binding element for the filling.

• Dill, Salt, Pepper: Fresh herb and classic seasoning blend for enhanced flavor.

• Lemon Juice: Bright, zesty accent to complement the salmon.

How to Make Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

Step 1: Whip Up Creamy Filling

Grab a mixing bowl and blend softened cream cheese with finely chopped fresh dill, a splash of zesty lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Stir until the mixture transforms into a silky, smooth consistency that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 2: Prepare Tortilla Canvas

Gently lay out your soft tortillas on a clean work surface. Using a spatula, spread the luscious cream cheese mixture across each tortilla, leaving a tiny border around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.

Step 3: Layer Luxurious Salmon

Drape delicate slices of smoked salmon evenly over the cream cheese layer. The salmon should create a beautiful, even blanket that promises rich, oceanic flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Roll into Pinwheel Magic

Starting from one edge, carefully roll each tortilla into a tight, compact log. Apply gentle, even pressure to ensure a neat, uniform shape that will slice beautifully.

Step 5: Slice and Beautify

With a sharp knife, cut the rolled logs into bite-sized pinwheels, each about one inch thick. Aim for clean, precise cuts that showcase the spiral pattern inside.

Step 6: Final Flourish and Chill

Arrange your pinwheels on an elegant serving platter. For an extra touch of sophistication, garnish with sprigs of fresh dill or a light drizzle of lemon juice. Pop the platter into the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the pinwheels set perfectly.

Handy Tips for Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

• Prep Ahead: Make the cream cheese mixture and roll pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance, storing them tightly wrapped in plastic to maintain freshness and texture.
• Control Thickness: Spread cream cheese mixture thinly and evenly to prevent bulky, difficult-to-roll pinwheels that might fall apart when sliced.
• Choose Quality Salmon: Select high-quality, fresh smoked salmon with rich flavor and smooth texture for the best taste experience.
• Experiment with Tortillas: Try whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas to accommodate different dietary preferences and add visual variety.
• Serve Chilled: Keep pinwheels refrigerated until serving to maintain their crisp shape and prevent cream cheese from becoming too soft.

Keeping Smoked Salmon Pinwheels Fresh and Tasty

• Store pinwheels in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. Keep chilled for up to 2 days, separating layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual pinwheels or the entire roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Gently warm pinwheels at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to prevent tortillas from becoming soggy and losing texture.
• For best flavor and texture, consume chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh herbs right before serving to enhance presentation and taste.

Smoked Salmon Pinwheels Recipe

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4.9 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Delightful smoked salmon pinwheels bring elegance to any gathering with their sophisticated spiral design. Creamy cheese, fresh dill, and delicate salmon roll together for a quick, impressive appetizer that will charm guests at first bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Primary Protein:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) smoked salmon, thinly sliced

Dairy and Binding Ingredients:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Base Ingredient:

• 4 large flour tortillas

Seasoning:

• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Craft a velvety blend by whisking cream cheese with finely chopped dill, zesty lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until silky smooth.
2. Gently unfurl tortillas across a clean surface, meticulously spreading the herbed cream cheese mixture in a delicate, even layer, ensuring a slender margin remains untouched around the edges.
3. Drape premium smoked salmon across the cream cheese canvas, creating an elegant, uniform coverage that extends to the tortilla’s perimeter.
4. Execute a precise, tight roll transforming the tortilla into a compact cylindrical form, applying gentle pressure to secure the ingredients.
5. Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled log into delicate medallions approximately one inch thick, revealing beautiful spiral patterns.
6. Artfully arrange the pinwheels on an elegant serving platter, enhancing their visual appeal with a light garnish of fresh dill sprigs or a delicate drizzle of lemon juice.
7. Refrigerate the assembled pinwheels for half an hour, allowing flavors to meld and texture to set, ensuring a crisp and refreshing appetizer experience.

Notes

• Chill tortillas before spreading to prevent cracking and ensure smooth rolling.
• Experiment with different herbs like chives or parsley for varied flavor profiles.
• Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier version of the appetizer.
• Pat smoked salmon dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture in pinwheels.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Rolling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg