Description
Ham and Pickle Roll-Ups
A Quick and Savory Snack Perfect for Any Occasion
Ingredients:
4 large flour tortillas
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dill weed
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 slices deli ham
4 large dill pickles
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
1. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, dill weed, and salt until smooth.
2. Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla.
3. Place 2 slices of ham on top of the cream cheese.
4. Lay a dill pickle at one end of the tortilla and roll it up tightly.
5. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas, ham, and pickles.
6. Slice each roll into 1-inch pieces to create bite-sized pinwheels.
7. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal per serving | Servings: 24 roll-ups
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect roll-ups every time. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature for a smooth, spreadable consistency. In your mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the cream cheese, garlic powder, dill weed, and salt until no lumps remain. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread a generous, even layer of the cream cheese mixture, going all the way to the edges. Next, lay two slices of ham flat over the cream cheese, slightly overlapping them to cover the tortilla. Place a whole dill pickle at the edge closest to you. Begin rolling tightly and firmly away from you, tucking the pickle in as you go to create a compact cylinder. Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and repeat with remaining ingredients. Refrigerate the wrapped rolls for at least 30 minutes; this crucial step firms them up for clean slicing. Finally, unwrap and use a sharp serrated knife to slice each roll into 1-inch pieces, wiping the blade clean between cuts.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile roll-ups can be presented in numerous ways. For a party, arrange the pinwheels on a platter with a small bowl of spicy mustard or ranch dressing for dipping. Insert decorative toothpicks for easy grabbing. For a casual snack, pack them in a lunchbox alongside crackers and fresh fruit. They also make an excellent addition to a charcuterie board, complementing cheeses, olives, and cured meats. For a brunch spread, serve them with deviled eggs and fresh vegetables.
How-to Summary
In short: mix seasoned cream cheese, spread on tortillas, layer with ham, add a pickle, roll tightly, chill to firm, then slice into pinwheels. The chilling step is essential for neat slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely. You can assemble the whole rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and serving.
Can I use a different type of tortilla? Yes. Spinach or tomato-flavored tortillas add color. For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas, though rolling may be trickier.
My roll-ups are falling apart when I slice them. What went wrong? This usually means the rolls were not chilled long enough, the cream cheese was too soft, or the roll was not tight enough. Ensure a firm chill and a tight roll.
Are there any good substitutes for dill pickles? You can use pickle spears, spicy pickles, or even well-drained pickled asparagus or green beans for a different crunch.
How should I store leftovers? Store sliced pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the tortilla may soften slightly over time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold cream cheese, as it will tear the tortilla. Do not overfill the tortilla, which prevents a tight seal and causes filling to spill out. Skipping the chilling step leads to messy, squished slices instead of neat pinwheels. Using a dull knife will crush the rolls; a sharp serrated knife is best. Finally, ensure pickles are patted dry to prevent excess moisture from making the tortilla soggy.
Conclusion
Ham and Pickle Roll-Ups are the quintessential easy appetizer, combining creamy, savory, and tangy flavors in one delightful bite. Their make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing taste make them a reliable choice for everything from game day to potlucks. By following the detailed steps and tips above, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a perfect, presentable snack every time. Give this classic recipe a try for your next gathering—it’s guaranteed to disappear quickly.