Salami Cream Cheese Rollups

Need a quick, tasty snack or party bite? That’s why I love making Salami Cream Cheese Rollups! They’re creamy, savory, and so easy.

I spread soft cream cheese on slices of salami, roll them up, and sometimes add a pickle or pepper strip inside. They’re perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or anytime you need a quick bite.

No cooking, no fancy stuff. Just simple ingredients and a few minutes. They’re fun, tasty, and always a hit.

Let’s make these rollups together! I’ll show you how fast and easy they are. Ready for a savory, creamy snack?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: This recipe takes just about 15 minutes to prepare and requires no cooking, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute guests.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy, tangy cream cheese paired with savory salami is a combination that appeals to many tastes. It’s a favorite at parties, game days, and casual get-togethers.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These rollups can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, which means you can focus on other dishes or relax before serving.
• Versatile Snack: Serve them as finger food, add them to lunchboxes, or slice into smaller pieces for bite-sized hors d’oeuvres.
• Customizable: The basic recipe is easy to personalize by adding herbs, spices, or swapping in other veggies like cucumbers or roasted red peppers.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (no cooking)
Servings: Makes approximately 12 rollups, suitable for 3 to 4 people as a snack or appetizer. If serving as part of a larger spread, this can serve more.
Difficulty: Very easy, perfect for cooks of all skill levels, including beginners.

Tips Before You Begin:

• Softening the Cream Cheese: For easy spreading, take the cream cheese out of the fridge about 30 minutes before making the recipe. If short on time, soften it gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Choosing Salami: Use thinly sliced salami for easy rolling and a balanced flavor. Look for quality deli salami without excessive additives for the best taste.
• Cutting Bell Pepper: Cut the bell pepper into thin, even strips so they fit neatly inside the rollups without tearing the salami.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl: To soften and season the cream cheese.
• Small spoon or spatula: For spreading the cream cheese evenly.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: To slice the bell pepper into thin strips.
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper (optional): Can help keep the rollups tight when rolling.

Ingredients with Notes

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • Softened cream cheese spreads easily and blends well with seasonings. Use full-fat for best texture and flavor.
• 20 slices thin salami
  • Thin slices roll easily without breaking. You can substitute with other deli meats if preferred.
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into thin strips
  • Adds fresh crunch and color, balancing the richness of the cream cheese and salami.
• Optional seasonings:
  • A pinch of black pepper or garlic powder mixed into the cream cheese can add subtle depth.

How to Make Salami Cream Cheese Rollups Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soften and Prepare the Cream Cheese

Place the cream cheese in a mixing bowl. If you want to add extra flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of black pepper or garlic powder. Use a spoon or spatula to stir and soften the cream cheese until it’s smooth and spreadable. This makes it easier to spread on the salami slices and ensures an even layer.

2. Prepare the Bell Pepper

Wash the green bell pepper thoroughly. Cut off the top and bottom, remove the seeds and white membranes inside. Slice the bell pepper into thin, uniform strips about 2-3 inches long—small enough to fit neatly inside each rollup without breaking the salami.

3. Spread the Cream Cheese on the Salami

Lay out one slice of salami flat on your work surface. Using a butter knife or small spatula, spread a thin, even layer of the softened cream cheese over the entire slice. Try to cover all the way to the edges so the cream cheese acts like a glue to hold the rollup together.

4. Add Bell Pepper Strips

Place 2 or 3 strips of the bell pepper near one end of the salami slice. This adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color inside each roll.

5. Roll It Up

Starting at the end with the bell pepper strips, gently but firmly roll the salami slice into a tight cylinder. Press gently as you roll to keep the cream cheese and pepper snug inside.

6. Repeat

Continue the same process with the remaining salami slices, cream cheese, and bell pepper strips until you’ve made about 12 rollups.

7. Chill Before Serving

For the best texture and flavor, place the rollups on a plate or tray, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the cream cheese to firm up and the flavors to meld.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Salami Cream Cheese Rollups are wonderfully versatile and can be served in many ways:

• As Finger Food: Arrange the rollups on a platter for easy grabbing at parties or casual gatherings. Garnish the plate with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a touch of color.
• With Dips: Pair them with mustard, ranch dressing, or a tangy vinaigrette for dipping to add extra flavor.
• Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: For appetizers or kids’ snacks, slice each rollup into 2 or 3 smaller rounds.
• Accompanied by Fresh Veggies: Serve alongside carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or cherry tomatoes to add freshness and crunch.
• Lunchbox Friendly: Pack them in a lunch container with some fruit and crackers for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Storing Salami Cream Cheese Rollups

• Refrigerate: Keep the rollups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cream cheese keeps them moist, but the bell pepper is best eaten fresh for crunch.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it changes the texture of the cream cheese and vegetables.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the rollups a few hours in advance or the night before and keep chilled until serving.

Variations and Tips for Success

• Add Fresh Herbs: Mix chopped chives, parsley, or dill into the cream cheese for added flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cream cheese for a mild kick.
• Swap the Veggies: Use thin cucumber strips, roasted red peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes instead of green bell pepper.
• Use Different Meats: Try prosciutto, turkey slices, or pepperoni for a different taste profile.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free spread if needed.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1 rollup)
Calories	90
Protein	5 grams
Total Fat	7 grams
Saturated Fat	3 grams
Carbohydrates	1 gram
Dietary Fiber	0.3 grams
Sugars	0.5 grams
Sodium	320 mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on brands and portion sizes.

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Salami Cream Cheese Rollups FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes, softened goat cheese or herbed cream cheese can work well for a different flavor.

Q: How long can these rollups be stored?
A: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely, they taste great when made a few hours or the day before serving.

Q: Are these rollups gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Salami Cream Cheese Rollups are a quick, tasty snack that requires minimal effort but delivers satisfying flavor. Using just cream cheese, thin salami, and crisp green bell pepper, you create a delicious combination perfect for many occasions—from casual snacks to party appetizers. The recipe is easy to customize and a reliable favorite to have on hand.