Smoked Salmon Pinwheels

Smoked Salmon Pinwheels are an elegant, bite-sized appetizer that combines creamy cheese, tender smoked salmon, and fresh herbs — all rolled up in a soft tortilla or wrap. These little spirals look beautiful on a platter and taste as delicious as they look.

Each bite offers a perfect balance of the smoky richness of salmon, the tangy creaminess of cheese, and the brightness of lemon and dill. They’re light, flavorful, and irresistibly moreish — ideal for any occasion from fancy brunches to casual gatherings.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s effortless yet impressive. You don’t need any cooking or baking — just fresh ingredients and a quick assembly. The flavors are sophisticated but come together in minutes.

I also love how versatile it is — you can make these ahead of time, refrigerate them, and serve them cold. They’re elegant enough for parties but simple enough for everyday snacking. Plus, they look gorgeous on any appetizer platter!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because:

• It’s easy, fresh, and quick to prepare — no cooking needed!
• The combination of smoked salmon and cream cheese is classic and luxurious.
• It’s make-ahead friendly, perfect for entertaining.
• Visually stunning — perfectly rolled, colorful pinwheels that wow guests.
• It’s a light and healthy option packed with protein and omega-3s.

Whether for holidays, brunches, or picnics, these pinwheels are always a hit!

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time (optional): 30 minutes
• Total Time: 15–45 minutes (depending on chilling)

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 12 pinwheels (serves 4–6 people)
• Calories: Approximately 110 kcal per pinwheel

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: European / Modern Appetizer
• Course: Appetizer / Snack / Party Finger Food

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size) or soft wraps
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 200 g (7 oz) smoked salmon slices
• 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
• 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix cream cheese with lemon, dill, and seasoning.
2. Spread over tortillas, layer smoked salmon and cucumber.
3. Roll tightly, chill, then slice into pinwheels.
4. Serve cold and fresh.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread

• In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, and a pinch of black pepper.
• Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Wraps

• Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface or cutting board.
• Spread a generous layer of the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

• Lay smoked salmon slices evenly over the cream cheese.
• Add thin cucumber slices and capers (if using) in a single layer for texture and freshness.

Step 4: Roll It Up

• Starting from one end, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape.
• Press gently to help it hold its shape.

Step 5: Chill (Optional but Recommended)

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• This helps the pinwheels firm up and makes slicing easier.

Step 6: Slice into Pinwheels

• Remove the wrap from the refrigerator and unwrap.
• Using a sharp knife, cut each roll into 1-inch slices.
• Wipe the knife clean between slices for neat edges.

Step 7: Arrange and Serve

• Arrange pinwheels on a platter and garnish with fresh dill sprigs or lemon wedges for presentation.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled as an elegant appetizer, snack, or brunch bite.
• Perfect for parties, baby showers, picnics, or festive gatherings.
• Pair with champagne, white wine, or sparkling water with lemon.
• Serve alongside other small bites like cheese cubes, olives, or crackers.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use room-temperature cream cheese for easy spreading.
• Chill the rolls before slicing for clean, even pinwheels.
• Don’t overload with fillings — thin layers help rolls hold together.
• For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt spread.
• If your tortillas are stiff, microwave them for 10 seconds to make them pliable.

Variations

• Herb Cream Cheese Pinwheels: Mix chives, parsley, and basil into the cream cheese.
• Avocado Salmon Pinwheels: Replace cream cheese with mashed avocado and lemon juice.
• Spinach Wrap Version: Use spinach or whole-wheat tortillas for color and nutrition.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip salmon and use roasted red peppers, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
• Smoked Trout or Tuna: Substitute salmon with smoked trout or canned tuna for a different flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese and smoked salmon may change upon thawing.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can roll and refrigerate the wraps up to 24 hours in advance, then slice just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife (for clean slicing)
• Mixing bowl
• Small spatula or offset spreader
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper for rolling and chilling

FAQ

Q1: Can I use other types of wraps?
Yes! Spinach, whole wheat, or even lavash bread works perfectly for this recipe.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the rolls can be made the night before. Slice them just before serving to keep them looking fresh.

Q3: Can I add other veggies?
Absolutely — thin slices of bell peppers, avocado, or lettuce make great additions.

Q4: How do I keep them from getting soggy?
Pat the smoked salmon and cucumber dry with paper towels before assembling to remove excess moisture.

Q5: What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use Boursin cheese, herbed goat cheese, or Greek yogurt spread for variation.

Conclusion

The Smoked Salmon Pinwheels are the perfect example of how something simple can look elegant and taste incredible. With creamy cheese, smoky salmon, and fresh herbs all rolled into soft tortillas, these delightful bites are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

They’re quick, refreshing, and versatile, making them ideal for everything from a brunch buffet to a cocktail party. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, freshness, and smokiness that’s simply irresistible.