Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups
These no-fuss appetizers combine salty beef salami and a tangy, herby cream cheese filling, offering a perfect balance of texture and flavor that's ideal for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Roll Ups
- 12 slices beef salami slices Choose thin, large slices like Genoa, beef pepperoni, milder turkey/chicken beef salami.
- 8 ounces Cream cheese Use full-fat for the best texture. Soften to room temperature for easy mixing.
- 2 teaspoons Dry chives Adds a gentle onion note and a bit of color.
- 2 teaspoons Dry onion Onion powder gives savory depth without adding moisture.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder For aromatic warmth.
- to taste Pepper Freshly cracked black pepper brightens the filling.
- optional Green olives Briny contrast — can swap for small pickles or cherry tomatoes.
- optional Pretzels Pretzel sticks or twists can add a crunchy counterpoint.
Instructions
Preparation
- Soften the cream cheese: Leave 8 oz of cream cheese at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, microwave it for 5–8 seconds on low to make it spreadable.
- Mix the filling: Put the softened cream cheese in a bowl. Add 2 tsp dry chives, 2 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, and black pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and evenly seasoned.
- Prep beef salami: Lay 12 beef salami slices in a single layer on a clean cutting board or parchment.
- Spread: Use a spoon or a small offset spatula to spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each beef salami slice.
- Roll up: Starting at one edge, roll each slice tightly but gently so it doesn’t tear.
- Secure: Insert a toothpick through the center of each roll to hold it together.
- Garnish: Top toothpicks with green olives, pickle slices, cherry tomatoes.
- Serve or chill: Arrange on a platter. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a few hours.
Notes
These roll ups can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Can be served chilled or at room temperature.