Smoked Salmon Pinwheels Recipe

Introduction

Smoked Salmon Pinwheels are a simple yet elegant appetizer perfect for gatherings or a light snack. Combining creamy cheese, fresh cucumber, and savory smoked salmon, these bite-sized rolls offer a refreshing burst of flavor in every piece.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces thinly sliced cold smoked salmon (I like Nova Lox)
• 4 ounces 1/3 less fat cream cheese
• 1/4 medium cucumber (cut into matchsticks)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons capers (drained)
• 1/2 lemon (sliced thin)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean work surface.
2. Step 2: Arrange the smoked salmon slices in an overlapping pattern to form a rectangle approximately 6 inches wide and 12 inches long, with one of the longer sides facing you.
3. Step 3: Gently spread the cream cheese evenly over the salmon, being careful not to move the fish slices. Place the cucumber matchsticks along one side of the rectangle about 1/2 inch from the edge.
4. Step 4: Using the plastic wrap to help, roll the salmon tightly around the cucumber sticks. Wrap it fully in the plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Step 5: After chilling, use a sharp knife to slice the roll into sixteen 1/2-inch thick pinwheels.
6. Step 6: Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped red onion and capers, and garnish with thin lemon slices before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra kick, add a small spread of horseradish or Dijon mustard beneath the cream cheese.
• Substitute the cucumber with thinly sliced avocado or bell pepper for a different texture.
• Use gluten-free crackers or serve the pinwheels on cucumber rounds for a low-carb option.

Storage

Keep any leftover pinwheels wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within 24 hours for optimal freshness. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for about 10 minutes; avoid reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 24 hours. Slice them just before serving to maintain their shape and freshness.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone, ricotta, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if desired. Just choose one with a smooth texture that spreads easily.

Smoked Salmon Pinwheels Recipe

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4.6 from 59 reviews

Delightful and elegant Smoked Salmon Pinwheels featuring thinly sliced cold smoked salmon layered with creamy reduced-fat cream cheese, crisp cucumber matchsticks, tangy red onion, and capers, rolled into bite-sized slices and finished with fresh lemon. Perfect for appetizers, brunches, or light snacks.

• Author: rami
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 16 pinwheels 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 ounces thinly sliced cold smoked salmon (preferably Nova Lox)
• 4 ounces 1/3 less fat cream cheese
• 1/4 medium cucumber, cut into matchsticks
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1/2 lemon, sliced thin

Instructions

1. Prepare your workspace: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean work surface to help with rolling and to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the salmon: Place the slices of smoked salmon in an overlapping manner to form a rectangle approximately 6 inches wide by 12 inches long, ensuring the longest side faces you for easier rolling.
3. Spread the cream cheese: Gently spread the reduced-fat cream cheese evenly over the salmon rectangle, taking care not to dislodge the slices. Then, lay the cucumber matchsticks along one of the longer edges about half an inch from the edge.
4. Roll tightly: Using the plastic wrap to help, carefully roll the salmon up tightly around the cucumber sticks to create a compact cylinder. Wrap securely and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Slice the pinwheels: Remove from the fridge, unwrap the plastic, and using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 16 even slices about 1/2 inch thick each.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the sliced red onion and drained capers over the pinwheels, and serve alongside thin lemon slices for an added zesty touch.

Notes

• Use plastic wrap generously to help form and roll the pinwheels tightly.
• Nova Lox is recommended for the ideal smoky flavor and texture.
• Be careful when slicing to maintain the shapes and avoid squashing the pinwheels.
• These pinwheels can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated until serving.
• For a dairy-free version, you can substitute cream cheese with a vegan spread.

Keywords: smoked salmon, pinwheels, appetizer, cream cheese, cucumber, capers, easy recipe, no-cook, party food, finger food