Delicious Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels: Easy Holiday Appetizer

Looking for a delightful recipe that’s both a crowd-pleaser and a time-saver? Look no further than these Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels! Packed with the perfect blend of flavors, these pinwheels are a harmonious mix of creamy chive and onion cheese, savory deli turkey, fresh baby spinach, and tangy dried cranberries. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or need a festive appetizer for a gathering, these pinwheels are the answer.

I fondly recall the time I brought these Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels to a potluck and watched them disappear in a flash. The combination of flavors and textures in each bite never fails to impress, and I’m always delighted to share the recipe with friends and family. With the chive and onion cream cheese adding a zesty kick and the dried cranberries providing bursts of sweetness, these pinwheels are a perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness. So, roll up a batch of these savory delights for your next event and watch them disappear just as quickly as they did at mine!

Quick Benefits

• Perfect make-ahead lunch or party appetizer
• Bursting with sweet and savory flavors
• Simple to make, yet always a crowd-pleaser
• Versatile – can be customized with different fillings and ingredients

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels: Easy Holiday Appetizer Recipe

• Effortless Yet Flavorful: Perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings, this recipe is easy to make but bursting with sweet and savory flavors.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customizable with different meats, vegetables, or cheese spreads to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Ideal for meal prep or party planning, these pinwheels can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making them a great time-saver.
• Nostalgic and Festive: Reminiscent of holiday flavors with a twist, these pinwheels evoke a sense of celebration and are perfect for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at parties and gatherings, these pinwheels are loved by both adults and kids, making them a versatile option for any event.

Ingredients for Delicious Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels: Easy Holiday Appetizer

Wraps

• 5 large soft flour tortillas (10-inch diameter)

Dairy

• 1 container chive and onion cream cheese spread (about 8 ounces)

Protein

• 20 slices deli turkey breast (approximately 0.5 pound)

Produce

• 1 cup baby spinach leaves, fresh

Fruit

• 1 1/4 cups dried cranberries

Pro Tips for Delicious Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels: Easy Holiday Appetizer

To make the Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels, ensure you spread the cream cheese evenly and avoid overfilling with wet ingredients to prevent the pinwheels from getting soggy. Wrapping them tightly in plastic and chilling before slicing will help maintain their shape and freshness for up to four days. For a flavor twist, consider using different cream cheese varieties like herbed cheese or hummus.

When assembling the pinwheels, opt for deli-style turkey slices that are easy to roll and layer evenly. Choosing a smoked or oven-roasted turkey variety can add extra flavor to the dish. If you decide to use fresh cranberries instead of dried, chop them finely and add a touch of sweetness to strike the right balance of flavors. Remember, these pinwheels can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead by storing them wrapped in the fridge and slicing just before serving for the best results.

How to Make Delicious Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels: Easy Holiday Appetizer

Step 1: Prepare Cream Cheese Base

Evenly spread 2 tablespoons of chive and onion cream cheese on each flour tortilla using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.

Step 2: Layer Turkey

Lay 4 slices of deli turkey in the center of each tortilla, making sure to cover evenly from edge to edge.

Step 3: Add Spinach and Cranberries

Evenly place baby spinach leaves and dried cranberries on each tortilla for a harmonious mix of flavors and textures.

Step 4: Roll and Seal

Roll each tortilla tightly into a tube, applying gentle pressure to prevent tearing and secure the filling.

Step 5: Chill

Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes, up to 4 days to allow flavors to blend and the pinwheel to firm up.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Slice chilled rolls into 1-inch pieces crosswise. Place pinwheels on a serving platter with the cut side facing up.

Storage Tips

To store the Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method will help maintain their freshness for up to four days. It is recommended not to slice the pinwheels until serving to prevent the edges from drying out.

When making these pinwheels ahead of time, it’s important to keep them tightly wrapped and refrigerated but unsliced to ensure the best texture and taste. Remember to slice them just before serving to keep them moist and intact. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as a make-ahead lunch option, a festive party appetizer, or even packed for picnics due to its ability to hold its shape well.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian option, you can easily swap the deli turkey with mild deli meats like chicken or ham. To enhance the flavor, consider using roasted bell peppers or thinly sliced cucumbers as tasty alternatives. If you don’t have chive and onion cream cheese, you can mix plain cream cheese with chopped fresh chives and green onions for a similar tangy kick.

If you’re looking to switch up the greens, arugula can be a great replacement for the baby spinach, providing a peppery twist to the pinwheels. For a springtime variation, consider using tender pea shoots or young greens. In the fall, adding shredded carrots can bring extra color and crunch to the dish. Additionally, you can elevate the cream cheese layer during the holidays by adding a touch of orange zest for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion with the Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels, arrange the sliced pinwheels neatly on a wooden board or platter in a spiral pattern. Garnish the board with fresh cranberries, sprigs of rosemary, and a drizzle of honey for a festive touch. This presentation not only makes for a stunning appetizer display but also adds a pop of color and flavor to your holiday table.

Another fun way to serve these pinwheels is to skewer them with decorative toothpicks and place them in a tall glass or vase filled with dried cranberries or mini pine cones for a charming and portable appetizer option. This presentation is perfect for parties, picnics, or even as a grab-and-go snack for your guests to enjoy.

FAQs for Delicious Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels: Easy Holiday Appetizer

Can I prepare these pinwheels in advance?

Yes, you can prepare these pinwheels up to 24 hours ahead. Store them tightly wrapped in the fridge and slice just before serving for the best results.

What can I use as a substitute for chive and onion cream cheese?

You can use plain cream cheese and mix in chopped fresh chives and green onions as a substitute for chive and onion cream cheese.

How long can I store these pinwheels?

You can store the pinwheels wrapped tightly in plastic and placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to four days. If making ahead, do not slice until serving to keep edges moist.

Why do these pinwheels not freeze well?

These pinwheels do not freeze well due to the cream cheese and fresh spinach becoming watery after thawing. For longer storage, assemble completely but do not slice, then tightly wrap and refrigerate for up to four days. Freshness is always the secret to the best bite.

Conclusion

As you embark on making these delightful Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels, remember that simplicity can be truly craveable. The combination of flavors in each slice is sure to impress your guests or brighten up your lunchbox. The tangy cream cheese, hearty turkey, fresh spinach, and sweet cranberries all come together harmoniously in this easy yet elegant dish.

Whether you’re serving these pinwheels at a festive gathering or packing them for a picnic, they are sure to be a hit. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations to suit your taste preferences and the changing seasons. So, go ahead and roll up a batch of these Turkey Cranberry Spinach Pinwheels, and enjoy the delightful flavors that each bite brings. Cheers to simple yet delicious food that never fails to impress!