Name: Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 slices salami; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 teaspoons dry chives; 2 teaspoons dry onion; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Pepper to taste; Green olives (optional for garnish); Pretzels (optional for serving)

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why make this recipe

Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups are a fantastic appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. They are easy to prepare, and everyone loves their delicious combination of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a tasty snack, these roll-ups will impress your guests. Their creamy filling and savory salami make them irresistible, and they can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, offering versatility for any gathering.

how to make Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups

Ingredients:

Salami slices (12 slices): Salami is the primary ingredient in this recipe. Its rich, slightly salty flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling. You can choose from a variety of salamis like Genoa, pepperoni, or even a milder turkey or chicken salami. The size and shape of the slices are important; they should be large enough to wrap around the cream cheese mixture easily but not too thick that they overwhelm the filling.
Cream cheese (8 ounces): The cream cheese acts as the base for the filling, providing a rich and smooth texture. It’s the ingredient that ties everything together. Be sure to use softened cream cheese, as it will make it much easier to mix with the other ingredients.
Dry chives (2 teaspoons): Chives offer a subtle oniony flavor that complements both the cream cheese and salami. They also bring a pop of green color that enhances the visual appeal of the roll ups.
Dry onion (2 teaspoons): The dry onion powder adds a savory, umami-rich flavor to the cream cheese mixture. It enhances the overall depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Garlic powder adds an aromatic, savory flavor that gives the filling a little extra kick. It’s a must-have in this recipe to balance out the richness of the cream cheese and salami.
Pepper (to taste): A pinch of black pepper is all you need to elevate the flavors. It adds a mild heat and rounds out the seasoning.
Green olives (optional for garnish): Green olives are optional but make a fantastic garnish. The briny flavor of the olives adds a nice contrast to the creamy filling. If you’re not an olive fan, pickles or cherry tomatoes can be used instead.
Pretzels (optional for serving): If you’re serving these roll ups on a platter, pretzels make for a great accompaniment. The crunchiness of pretzels contrasts nicely with the creamy roll ups, making them even more enjoyable.

Directions:

Begin by softening the cream cheese. Once softened, place it in a small mixing bowl. Add the dry chives, dry onion, garlic powder, and pepper to the cream cheese and mix until everything is well combined. The result should be a smooth, creamy mixture that’s ready to spread.
Lay the slices of salami out on a clean surface, such as a cutting board. You can arrange the slices in a single layer to ensure they are all ready for the next step.
Take a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture and spread it evenly over each slice of salami. Be sure to cover the entire slice, leaving no empty spots. You want the cream cheese mixture to be generous but not overly thick.
Starting from one end, carefully roll up each salami slice, making sure the cream cheese filling is securely wrapped inside. You’ll want to roll the salami tightly but without over-stretching it.
Insert a toothpick into each roll to hold it together. If you prefer, you can stack two or three rolls per toothpick for easier serving.
If desired, garnish the toothpicks with green olives or pickles for a tangy touch. This also adds a bit of visual flair to your roll ups.
Arrange the roll ups on a serving platter and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to enjoy. These roll ups can be served chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

how to serve Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups

To serve Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups, place them on a beautiful platter and arrange them neatly. You can add garnishes like green olives, pickles, or fresh herbs to make them visually appealing. If you’re serving them at a party, consider placing a small bowl of pretzels alongside for a crunchy contrast. They are perfect as finger food, making them easy for guests to grab and enjoy!

how to store Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups

If you have any leftovers or want to prepare them in advance, store the roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve them, simply take them out and enjoy! You can also prepare the cream cheese filling ahead of time and assemble the roll ups just before serving for best freshness.

tips to make Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups

Always use softened cream cheese to ensure easier mixing and spreading.
Experiment with different types of salami or even other deli meats for unique flavors.
If you want an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
To make them more festive, use colorful toothpicks or skewers for an appealing presentation.

variation

You can easily customize the filling by adding different ingredients. For example, consider mixing in some finely chopped herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor. You could also include diced jalapeños for a spicy twist or shredded cheese for extra creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I make these roll ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roll ups a few hours before your event. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

2. What can I use instead of salami?
Feel free to use any deli meat you prefer, such as turkey, ham, or chicken. You can also try using different varieties of salami for different flavor profiles.

3. Are there any vegetarian options?
Yes! You could use roasted vegetables or cucumber slices to replace salami for a vegetarian version. Just spread the cream cheese mixture on the veggies instead.