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These Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups are crazy simple and people always grab them up fast. They're perfect for anything, whether it's the holidays or you're just fixing snacks for a movie night. All you do is wrap creamy, zesty filling in some tasty salami and you get a snack that looks way fancier than it is. Any time I set these out, they're gone in no time, and I end up sharing how to make them every single time.
I made these on a whim for friends dropping by and now my kid asks for them when his buddies come over for games. Seriously, there’s never anything left when the tray comes back in.
Delicious Ingredients
- Pretzels: Optional but that salty crunch with the creamy and chewy bites is next level. Both mini sticks and twists work well for dipping.
- Green olives: Briny olives on top add fancy vibes and a fresh bite, but they're totally up to you. Grab pitted, firm ones for the best look.
- Pepper: Give everything a peppery kick by grinding fresh black pepper right in, it really lights up the flavors.
- Garlic powder: Adds warmth and a hint of garlic without being too strong, so all the flavors stay happy together.
- Dry onion: Just a little wakes up all the savory notes. Go for powder that isn’t clumpy, for easy mixing.
- Dry chives: Adds a splash of green and subtle oniony flavor. Fresh chives from a busy store have the best pop.
- Cream cheese: Let it hang out at room temp for half an hour, or nuke it just a little, so it’s soft and spreads smooth.
- Salami slices: Use round pieces that aren’t super thick or greasy. The firmer, the easier to roll up snacks without tearing.
Easy Instructions
- Start Serving:
- Line your finished roll ups on your favorite plate and share them right away for ultimate freshness. Or cover and stash in the fridge, chilling them up to a day in advance if you want.
- Garnish Time:
- Top each roll up with a green olive or any other garnish you like for a bright finish. Gently press to make sure the olive sticks on top.
- Stick with Toothpicks:
- Pop a toothpick into the center to keep these from unrolling and so grabbing them is mess free. Skip the sticks for kiddie parties and just use clean fingers.
- Roll 'em Up:
- Start on one end and roll each slice up tight. If the salami puts up a fight, press lightly and keep rolling until you get a neat tube with the filling tucked in.
- Spread the Goodness:
- Use a butter knife or spoon to swipe a thin, even layer of cheese mix across each slice. Hit the edges for maximum flavor in every bite. Adjust the layer as you like, just don’t go heavy.
- Lay Out Salami:
- Place all your salami pieces flat on a board so grabbing and rolling is fast and you don't make a mess.
- Mix up the Filling:
- Throw softened cream cheese, chives, pepper, dry onion, and garlic powder in a little bowl. Use a fork or spatula to mix until you can't see any dry stuff and the mixture is evenly spread out.
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I’m all about using cream cheese here because it smooths everything out and makes the salty meats and bold herbs pop. My youngest is obsessed with putting olives on and always jumps in to decorate. Honestly, watching her get creative with toppings makes this snack feel extra happy.
Smart Storage
Pop leftovers in a container with a lid and keep them cold for up to three days. To keep things from sticking, stash some wax or parchment between the layers. Just grab 'em straight from the fridge instead of letting them get warm so they still taste great.
Swap Out Options
If you’re in the mood for something different, sub the salami with thin turkey pepperoni or roasted deli beef. No cream cheese? Use goat cheese, Greek yogurt spread, or another soft cheese. Parsley or dill can stand in for chives and still keep things fresh.
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Fun Ways to Serve
Lay these out with cut-up veggies or pretzel snacks to make it interesting. They fit right in with any snack board, especially with pickles, nuts, or sweet grapes alongside.
Party Food Backstory
Roll ups have been a go-to favorite at American parties since people started loving cocktail hour in the '50s. They pack all the flavor of your best deli sandwich in a little finger food—a total throwback and a crowd pleaser.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Is it okay to use other deli meats here?
You bet! Try it with turkey, pepperoni, or roast beef—each brings something different but still tasty.
- → How do I keep them from unraveling?
Just poke a toothpick through every roll up—keeps them together and makes them easy to grab.
- → Are these better cold or can I serve them room temp?
Both ways work fine. Chill for a firmer bite or leave them out for a softer, smoother feel.
- → Can I make these in advance?
Definitely. Put them together a few hours ahead, cover, and toss them in the fridge. Wait until serving to add toppings so they stay crisp and fresh.
- → What can I swap for cream cheese?
Give Greek yogurt, a light cheese spread, or one with different flavors a try if you’re feeling like a change.
- → What's good for topping or garnishing these?
Try cucumber slices, green olives, cherry tomatoes, or pickles—each one adds a crunchy and bright kick to the creamy rolls.