Ah, the humble pinwheel. A staple at any gathering, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a family dinner party. But let’s be real – when we think “pinwheels,” we often think of the same old tired fillings: ham and cheese, turkey and avocado. Don’t get us wrong, those are delicious in their own right! However, when you add an Italian twist to the classic pinwheel, magic happens. The bold flavors of Italy come together with the versatility of the pinwheel to create a snack that’s equal parts elegant and easy.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering Italian pinwheel recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic combinations like salami and cheese to more adventurous pairings like prosciutto and arugula, there’s something for everyone in this list. So grab a glass of Chianti, gather ’round the table, and get ready to indulge in some serious deliciousness!
Classic Italian Pinwheels with Salami and Cheese
These flavorful pinwheels are a staple of Italian cuisine, perfect for a quick snack or lunch on-the-go. Made with salami, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, they’re easy to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz salami, thinly sliced
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Arrange the salami slices along one edge of the dough, leaving a small border around them.
3. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the salami, followed by the chopped basil.
4. Fold the long side of the dough over the filling, then roll up the pinwheel tightly.
5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Italian Pinwheels
These flavorful pinwheels are the perfect combination of spinach, artichoke hearts, and Italian seasonings wrapped in a crispy phyllo crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup of cooked spinach
– 1/4 cup of artichoke hearts, chopped
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked spinach, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough flat on a surface. Brush with some melted butter (about 1 tablespoon).
5. Place about 1/2 cup of the spinach mixture in the center of the phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form a triangle or pinwheel shape. Repeat until all ingredients are used up.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Italian Pinwheels
Experience the taste of Italy with these flavorful pinwheels filled with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick snack or as an addition to your favorite Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (8-10) large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread about 1/4 cup of the tomato-basil mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll the tortilla tightly into a pinwheel shape. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
5. Place pinwheels seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Pepperoni Pizza Pinwheels with Marinara Dip
This recipe brings the flavors of a classic pizza party to a convenient and portable pinwheel shape, perfect for game days, parties, or snacking on-the-go. The addition of marinara dip takes it to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crescent roll dough (8 oz)
– 12 slices of pepperoni
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Marinara dip (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the crescent roll dough into a large rectangle.
3. Arrange pepperoni slices and shredded mozzarella cheese on one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
4. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a pinwheel shape. Press edges together to seal.
5. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with marinara dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto and Mozzarella Italian Pinwheels
Experience the flavors of Italy with these delicious pinwheels, packed with creamy pesto and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
4. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the pesto sauce.
5. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
6. Roll the pinwheel tightly, starting from one end. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Italian Pinwheels with Balsamic Glaze
Transform the classic Caprese salad into a delicious and visually stunning pinwheel appetizer or snack, perfect for any gathering. These flavorful bites combine fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil in a crispy wrap.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of whole wheat or Italian-style tortillas (8-10 count)
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay a tortilla flat and spread a layer of mozzarella cheese down the center.
3. Add a few tomato slices on top of the cheese, followed by some chopped basil.
4. Drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the filling.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a pinwheel shape.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Italian Pinwheels with Parmesan
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful pinwheels packed with garlic butter, parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Mix garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl. Spread the mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Roll up pastry tightly but gently, starting from one of the long sides. Cut into 6-8 pinwheels.
5. Place pinwheels on prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prosciutto and Arugula Italian Pinwheels
These pinwheels are a delicious twist on traditional wraps, featuring the salty sweetness of prosciutto and the peppery flavor of arugula. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 4 cups of fresh arugula leaves
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange the prosciutto slices horizontally across the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
4. Top the prosciutto with arugula leaves and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a tight pinwheel shape. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Italian Pinwheels
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Italian Pinwheels
A flavorful twist on traditional pinwheels, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup roasted red pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 6 equal pieces.
3. In the center of each piece, spread a tablespoon of goat cheese and top with a spoonful of roasted red pepper.
4. Fold the edges over the filling, forming a pinwheel shape. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place pinwheels on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Three-Cheese Italian Pinwheels with Herbs
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful pinwheels, packed with a trio of cheeses and fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella until well combined.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the center third of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Sprinkle parsley and basil over the cheese.
6. Fold the left and right sides of the pastry towards the center, then roll the pinwheel away from you to form a tight cylinder.
7. Place the pinwheel seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Italian Pinwheels with Blue Cheese
These addictive pinwheels combine the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and blue cheese with the classic taste of Italy. Perfect for game day snacks or party appetizers.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded (use buffalo sauce to flavor)
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, blue cheese, and parsley.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Spread half of the chicken mixture along the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
5. Fold the sides over the filling and roll into pinwheels. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Italian Pinwheels with Olives and Feta
These pinwheels combine the flavors of the Mediterranean with the richness of Italy, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Fresh herbs, olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes come together in a delicious and easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Mix together olives, feta cheese, parsley, and olive oil in a small bowl.
4. Place the mixture along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Fold the sides inward, then roll the pastry into a pinwheel shape.
6. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Italian Pinwheels
Elevate your party game with these deliciously unexpected pinwheels, combining the tender goodness of BBQ pulled pork with the flavors of Italy.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cooked BBQ pulled pork
• 8-10 Italian-style hoagie rolls (or similar)
• 1/4 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Slice each hoagie roll into 3-4 inch pieces, creating the pinwheel shape.
3. In a small bowl, mix together shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of BBQ pulled pork onto each pinwheel piece, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with a sprinkle of the cheese-parsley mixture.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Italian Pinwheels
Bacon and Cheddar Italian Pinwheels – A Twist on Classic Pinwheels!
These flavorful pinwheels combine the savory goodness of bacon, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs with the convenience of a wrap. Perfect for a quick snack or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cream cheese softened
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
2. Add chopped parsley and basil to the mixture; stir well.
3. Lay out a tortilla and spread about 2 tablespoons of the cheese-bacon mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemblage only)
Avocado and Turkey Italian Pinwheels
These pinwheels combine the creamy richness of avocado with the savory flavor of turkey, all wrapped up in a crispy Italian-style bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 slices cooked turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 Italian-style bread baguette, sliced into 6-8 pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed avocado, olive oil, and cream cheese until smooth.
3. Arrange the turkey slices on a flat surface.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the avocado mixture onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with a turkey slice, some parsley, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
6. Roll up each slice tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Italian Pinwheels
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy, and spicy pinwheels that combine the best of Italy and Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 package of Italian-seasoned cream cheese spreadable pinwheel wraps (8-10 count)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, basil, and chopped jalapeño.
3. Spread the mixture evenly onto the center of each pinwheel wrap, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll up the wraps tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and pinwheels are crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ham and Swiss Italian Pinwheels with Honey Mustard
These flavorful pinwheels combine the savory goodness of ham and Swiss cheese with the sweetness of honey mustard, all wrapped up in a crispy Italian bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Italian bread (16-20 slices)
– 8 oz sliced ham
– 4 oz sliced Swiss cheese
– 2 tbsp honey mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lay a slice of Italian bread flat and spread a small amount of honey mustard on the center.
3. Top with a piece of ham, followed by a piece of Swiss cheese.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of chopped parsley over the cheese.
5. Fold the bottom half of the bread up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a pinwheel shape.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Yogurt and Cucumber Italian Pinwheels
These bite-sized pinwheels are the perfect combination of cool, creamy yogurt, crunchy cucumber, and savory Italian seasonings. Perfect for a light snack or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (dried oregano, basil, thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortilla wraps (whole wheat or white)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together yogurt, cucumber, parsley, and olive oil until well combined.
2. Add Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay out a tortilla wrap and spread about 1/4 cup of the yogurt mixture onto the center of the wrap, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll up the wrap tightly, then slice into pinwheels.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! These pinwheels are ready to serve immediately.
Chicken Alfredo Italian Pinwheels
A twist on classic chicken alfredo, these pinwheels bring a fun and easy twist to the traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 8-10 wonton wrappers
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine noodles
– 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, fettuccine noodles, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well.
3. Lay out wonton wrappers on a flat surface.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture onto the center of each wrapper.
5. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Fold bottom half of wrapper up over filling, then fold in sides and roll into a pinwheel shape. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Place pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until wonton wrappers are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Cinnamon Italian Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Frosting
Sweet Cinnamon Italian Pinwheels with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
These sweet and gooey pinwheels are perfect for a snack or dessert. With the combination of cinnamon, cream cheese frosting, and flaky puff pastry, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Sprinkle cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
3. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long side. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
4. Place pinwheels on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting (mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to roll out some delicious flavors with these 20 mouth-watering Italian pinwheel recipes! From classic combinations like salami and cheese, to unique twists like buffalo chicken or jalapeño popper, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a satisfying lunch, these easy-to-make pinwheels are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative, and spread the Italian love with your friends and family!
