Salami Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe

don’t know about you, but there’s something irresistibly charming about recipes that are as fun to make as they are to eat. These salami cream cheese roll-ups check both those boxes for me! They’re a delightful snack or appetizer that feels fancy without the fuss—perfect for parties, casual get-togethers, or even a Netflix night when you just want to treat yourself. Creamy, savory, and satisfyingly salty, these little bites are packed with flavor and can be whipped up in minutes. Let’s dive into how you can make these tasty roll-ups a staple in your snack rotation.

this RECIPE

A snack with nostalgia

This recipe brings back memories of holiday parties at my grandmother’s house, where she would always have an array of little finger foods. There was always something special about the simple mix of tangy cream cheese and salty cured meats that made them disappear from the table in no time. I remember sneaking a few extra roll-ups and pretending I was helping clean up (sorry, Mom!). Fast forward to today, and I still find myself gravitating toward these easy, bite-sized treats whenever I’m hosting or just craving something savory. It’s amazing how food can instantly transport you to another time, isn’t it?

From deli platters to snack royalty

While these roll-ups may not have centuries of history behind them, they’re very much rooted in the classic American tradition of quick appetizers. Finger foods like this, using deli meats and spreads, gained popularity in the mid-20th century when cocktail parties were all the rage. Over time, this idea evolved into all sorts of creative combinations, and let me tell you—salami and cream cheese? Definitely a match made in snack heaven. Now, people customize them in countless ways, using different herbs, spices, and garnishes to make them their own. It’s the ultimate “no-cook” appetizer that anyone can whip up, no matter their kitchen experience!

Let’s talk ingredients: It’s all about the balance

Each ingredient in this recipe plays its part to perfection, and I’ve got a few tips up my sleeve for making them shine:

• Salami: The star of the show! You’ll want to grab pre-sliced salami for ease, but if you’re feeling fancy, you could splurge on something from the deli counter. If you’re ever out of salami, pepperoni or prosciutto make excellent substitutes. Just note that prosciutto can be a bit delicate, so handle with care.
• Cream Cheese: This is your rich, creamy base. Softened cream cheese spreads beautifully, so make sure to let it sit out for a bit before mixing. I’ve tried this with flavored cream cheeses too, and they add an interesting twist!
• Dried Chives & Onion: These dried herbs bring a subtle but essential flavor to the mix. If you don’t have them on hand, fresh chopped green onions or scallions work great, adding a bit of crunch and freshness.
• Garlic Powder: Just a touch of this adds depth. Don’t overdo it, though—trust me, a teaspoon goes a long way!
• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is my go-to here. It adds a nice little bite to balance out the richness of the cream cheese.
• Green Olives: Optional, but highly recommended! The briny, salty pop of a green olive on top really rounds out the flavors.
• Pretzels: Not just for serving—these are also a perfect crunchy complement to the creamy and savory roll-ups. You can even use pretzel sticks in place of toothpicks for a fun twist!

Kitchen gear: What you need (and what you can totally skip)

You don’t need much in the way of kitchen tools to pull off these salami roll-ups, which is part of their beauty! Here’s what I use:

• Mixing bowl: To combine the cream cheese and seasonings. Any medium-sized bowl will do.
• Spatula or spoon: I prefer a silicone spatula because it’s great for spreading the mixture onto the salami slices without tearing them.
• Toothpicks: These little guys will hold your roll-ups together. If you’re out of toothpicks, feel free to improvise with pretzel sticks for a double-duty snack.
• Cutting board: Not essential, but handy for laying out and rolling the salami slices.

Step-by-step: My foolproof method (and a few hard-learned lessons)

Let’s get rolling, literally! Here’s how to make these salami cream cheese roll-ups without a hitch:

1. Prep the filling: In a bowl, mix together your softened cream cheese, dried chives, onion, garlic powder, and a good pinch of black pepper. Stir until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. (Tip: If you’re short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 10 seconds to soften it faster.)
2. Spread the love: Lay a slice of salami flat on a cutting board or plate, then spread a generous teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture across the center of the slice. You want enough filling for flavor but not so much that it squishes out the sides when rolled.
3. Roll it up: Start at one edge and carefully roll the salami slice into a tight cylinder. It’s okay if some cream cheese peeks out—this is a snack, not a work of art!
4. Secure with toothpicks: Pierce the center of the roll with a toothpick to hold it together. If you’re stacking rolls, you can fit up to three on one toothpick for a fun presentation.
5. Add the garnish: If you’re feeling fancy, pop a green olive onto the end of each toothpick. This adds a salty, briny touch that I love.
6. Serve and enjoy: Pile the roll-ups on a serving plate, and for an extra touch, serve with pretzels. The leftover cream cheese mixture? Use it as a dip for the pretzels—trust me, you’ll be glad you did!

Variations I’ve tried (and loved!)

The beauty of these roll-ups is how versatile they are. Here are a few fun variations I’ve experimented with:

• Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture for a bit of heat. Jalapeño slices on top of the roll-ups are another spicy option!
• Vegan twist: For a plant-based version, swap the salami for thinly sliced zucchini or roasted red peppers and use dairy-free cream cheese. They still turn out delicious and are great for guests with dietary restrictions.
• Herb explosion: Swap out the dried chives and onion for fresh herbs like basil, dill, or parsley for a fresh, summery take.
• Everything bagel style: Mix in a teaspoon of “everything bagel” seasoning into the cream cheese. It adds a delightful crunch and flavor with minimal effort.
• Seasonal switch-up: Around the holidays, I’ve added dried cranberries to the cream cheese mixture, which adds a lovely sweetness against the salty salami.

How to serve these roll-ups at your next gathering

When it comes to serving, these roll-ups are pretty easy to make look impressive with minimal effort. Arrange them neatly on a platter, toothpicks upright, and scatter pretzels around the edges for snacking. A garnish of fresh herbs like parsley adds a pop of color, and if you’re using olives, they already add a fun, festive touch. If you want to go all out, consider serving them alongside a cheese board—people will go crazy for the variety!

Perfect drink pairings for a casual bite

For drinks, I’d go for something light and refreshing to balance the rich flavors of the roll-ups. A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the salty salami and creamy cheese. If you’re more of a beer person, a pilsner or a light lager is perfect. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is refreshing and cuts through the richness nicely.

Leftovers? Here’s how to store them

If you manage to have any leftovers (which is rare in my experience), these roll-ups store quite well! Just pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing them, as the texture of the cream cheese can get a bit grainy once thawed. To reheat, there’s no need—just let them sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off before serving again. They’re best enjoyed cold or at room temperature!

Scaling up or down

This recipe is so easy to adjust! Whether you’re making these for a solo snack or doubling up for a party, the process stays the same. If you’re making a bigger batch, I’d recommend prepping your cream cheese mixture in advance, so you can assemble the roll-ups quickly when you’re ready. One thing to note when scaling down: If you only make a few roll-ups, you might find yourself wanting more (speaking from experience here).

Encouragement to try your own version

There you have it—salami cream cheese roll-ups that are sure to impress! Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations I suggested, this recipe is versatile and endlessly customizable. Go ahead, experiment with different flavors, and make it your own! And don’t be surprised if these become your go-to snack for every occasion. Once you see how easy and delicious they are, you’ll be hooked!

FAQ

Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Absolutely! Flavored cream cheeses like herb or garlic varieties can add an extra layer of flavor to these roll-ups without much extra effort.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can make them a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge, covered, and they’ll be fresh and ready for your event.

What other garnishes work well?
Aside from olives, you can garnish with a slice of pickled jalapeño or even a sun-dried tomato for a more Mediterranean vibe.

Can I use other meats besides salami?
Definitely! Try pepperoni, turkey slices, or even prosciutto. Just be mindful of how thick the slices are for rolling.

How do I keep the cream cheese from oozing out?
Don’t overfill the salami slices, and make sure the cream cheese is properly softened before spreading it—that’ll make the rolling easier and cleaner!

Print