Turkey Pinwheels
Turkey Pinwheels are one of those easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers that fit any occasion, from game day to holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving. They’re just as great for school lunchboxes, picnics, or potlucks. They look impressive on a platter but take hardly any fuss to put together, making them perfect for meal prep on busy days or last-minute plans. Since they hold their shape and stay fresh when made ahead, you can keep them chilled in the fridge for ready-to-go snacks, lunches, or party bites all week long.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 large tortillas
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 3 tablespoons green onions chopped
- 12 ounces sliced turkey
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese slices
- 1 cup romaine lettuce
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, green onions, and dried cranberries until smooth and well blended.8 ounces cream cheese, 3 tablespoons green onions, ½ cup dried cranberries
- On a clean surface, lay the tortillas.2 large tortillas
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tortillas, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, then turkey slices, and finish with romaine lettuce.12 ounces sliced turkey, 8 ounces mozzarella cheese slices, 1 cup romaine lettuce
- Starting at one end, roll the tortillas tightly into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Unwrap, cut into 1-inch pieces, and serve chilled.
Video
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Notes
- Soften the cream cheese: Bring the cream cheese to room temperature so it spreads smoothly and doesn’t tear the tortilla.
- Season with salt and pepper: Add a light pinch of both to the cream cheese mixture to bring out the flavors of the turkey and cranberries without overpowering them. A salt and pepper grinder set makes it easy to add a pinch of freshly ground seasoning.
- Mix in fresh herbs: Stir a bit of finely chopped parsley, dill, or thyme into the cream cheese for a subtle aroma and freshness that complements the turkey.
- Use deli turkey breast for freshness: You can slice it thinly yourself from the deli counter for a cleaner flavor and more tender texture that rolls up perfectly.
- Add fresh mix-ins for texture and flavor: Layer thin slices of cucumber with the lettuce for extra texture and a refreshing bite that still keeps the classic flavor balance. For a Mediterranean touch, you can also add a few finely chopped olives for a salty, briny accent.
- Swap romaine for spinach: Use baby spinach instead of romaine if you prefer a softer texture and deeper green color. Spinach pairs especially well with a little feta cheese or a drizzle of pesto if you want to lean into a fresh, Italian-inspired roll-up.
- Experiment with flavor boosters: Add a few tangy or zesty elements to the filling for extra depth and variety. Try mixing in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of richness or spreading a thin layer of ranch or honey mustard sauce for a light, flavorful kick.
- Chill before cutting: Let the roll firm up in the fridge for at least an hour. This simple step makes all the difference in how cleanly they slice. Once you're ready to slice it, use a sharp chef’s knife to avoid flattening the pinwheels.
Nutrition
Calories: 185kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 48mgSodium: 470mgPotassium: 167mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 738IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 128mgIron: 0.5mg
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