These Mediterranean pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! Filled with fresh veggies, creamy cheese, and tasty spreads, they are rolled up and cut into bite-sized pieces. Perfect for when you want something light!
Making these pinwheels is a breeze! I love serving them at parties, and they always disappear fast. Plus, they make my lunch feel fancy without much effort! Who doesn’t love a meal that’s cute and delicious? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: I like using large flour tortillas for their softness. Whole wheat tortillas are a great healthier alternative. If you’re avoiding gluten, consider using gluten-free tortillas; just make sure they are large enough to hold the fillings.
Cream Cheese: This gives a nice creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. I often mix in some flavored cream cheese for added taste!
Hummus: A pantry staple! You can swap it with a bean spread or even guacamole if you prefer. It adds flavor and moisture, so keep something creamy in your mix.
Fresh Vegetables: Spinach, red bell pepper, and cucumber are a fresh combo. Feel free to switch these out with your favorite veggies like arugula, carrots, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist!
Feta Cheese: Feta is tangy and goes perfectly here. If you can’t find it, try goat cheese or a crumble of blue cheese. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based feta.
How Can I Roll Tortillas Without Making a Mess?
Rolling the tortillas tightly is key to keeping all those tasty fillings inside! Here’s how to roll them perfectly:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Layer your veggies evenly to avoid lumpiness and ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Start rolling from one edge, keeping it tight but not so tight that the filling squeezes out.
- Use a sharp knife to slice once rolled. A serrated knife works wonders and helps keep the pinwheels intact and pretty!
Once you’ve rolled them up, you can also refrigerate them to firm up, making slicing easier.
How to Make Mediterranean Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pinwheels:
- 4 large flour tortillas (or whole wheat tortillas)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs like dill or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and is ready to serve right after making or after refrigerating for up to an hour. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for parties or a light snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, take your softened cream cheese and hummus. Use a fork or a hand mixer to blend them together until smooth. Add the lemon juice and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will be the base of your flavors!
2. Spread the Mixture on the Tortilla:
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Take a generous scoop of your cream cheese mixture and spread it all over the tortilla, making sure to cover the whole surface for maximum deliciousness.
3. Add the Fresh Veggies and Feta:
Now it’s time to layer! Distribute the chopped spinach, red bell pepper slices, red onion, cucumber, black olives, and feta cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer. This will help create colorful and tasty pinwheels!
4. Roll It Up:
Start from one edge of the tortilla and carefully roll it up tightly. Try to keep the filling inside as you go, making sure it’s nice and snug. Repeat this step with the rest of your tortillas.
5. Slice the Pinwheels:
Once all the tortillas have been rolled up, grab a sharp knife. Slice each roll into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches thick. This is where your pinwheels will start to look appetizing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your beautiful pinwheels on a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped herbs on top for a beautiful presentation. You can serve them immediately or pop them in the refrigerator for up to an hour to let the flavors mesh together. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired snack!
Can I Substitute the Tortillas for Another Type?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option, or even spinach or tomato basil tortillas for added flavor. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortillas made from almond or coconut flour – they work great too!
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh, you might want to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Just take them out and enjoy them cold or at room temperature!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced tomatoes, shredded carrots, or avocados for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also switch up the feta cheese for a different cheese, like goat cheese or shredded cheddar, depending on your taste preference!
How Do I Ensure My Pinwheels Stay Rolled Tight?
To avoid unrolling, make sure to spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges of the tortilla. When rolling, start tightly and maintain that tightness as you move along, maybe even using parchment paper to help guide the tight roll if needed!
