This recipe is my go-to because it’s both deliciously indulgent and super easy to make, perfect for impressing friends at a last-minute get-together. Plus, the combination of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors hits all the right notes for a flavor-packed bite that satisfies those comfort food cravings.
Creating tasty and quick appetizers is something I take great pleasure in, and these Salami Cheese Rolls are the perfect example of that. The ingredients pack a powerful flavor punch.
Savory salami and provolone cheese are the main ingredients, but they’re not used in the traditional way. These rolls offer up the good flavors one expects in a classic Italian antipasto salad.
On top of that, they also deliver the rich cheesiness one expects in a classic cheese appetizer.
Ingredients
Salami:
High in protein; offers a delicious, smoky taste.
Provolone Cheese:
Imparts a creamy consistency; offers calcium and protein.
Cream Cheese:
Tangy and smooth; indulgent creaminess.
Chives:
Presents gentle onion flavor; contributes brightness and hue.
Dijon Mustard:
Piquant and biting; improves flavor depth.
Garlic Powder:
Contributes fragrant, herbal flavor; works harmoniously with other taste elements.
Ingredient Quantities
- 8 slices of salami
- 8 slices of provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
2. Place a slice of salami on a solid work surface.
3. On top of the salami, place a slice of provolone cheese.
4. Evenly spread about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture over the provolone slice.
5. From one end to the other, form a tight roll with the salami and cheese.
6. Follow steps 2-5 with the other slices of salami, cheese, and cream cheese mixture.
7. Position the rolls on a serving platter.
8. If you want, you can fasten each roll with a toothpick to keep it in place.
9. Add an extra touch of freshness and color by garnishing with parsley or basil leaves.
10. Serve right away as a first course or chill until you need it. Enjoy!
Equipment Needed
1. Medium bowl
2. Mixing spoon or spatula
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Cutting board
5. Knife
6. Serving platter
7. Toothpicks (optional for fastening)
8. Refrigerator (optional for chilling)
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of cheese?Yes, you may substitute provolone for any cheese of your choice, like mozzarella or cheddar, according to your preference.
- How should I serve the Salami Cheese Rolls?Appetizers or snacks, these rolls are ideal to serve on a platter with fresh garnishes and to present chilled.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?Substituting for the salami can be done in one of two ways:
1. Use thin slices of grilled eggplant instead of salami.
2. Use thinly sliced grilled zucchini instead of salami. - How far in advance can these rolls be made?You can make them up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator in a container that doesn’t allow the air to get in until you’re ready to serve.
- What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?If you don’t have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard or a little horseradish can give you a similar flavor.
- How do I prevent the rolls from falling apart?Be sure to tightly roll them and chill them in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes to help them maintain their shape.
Substitutions and Variations
If you desire a distinction in taste, you can swap provolone cheese for either mozzarella or Swiss cheese.
You might consider using ricotta cheese as a substitute for cream cheese to achieve a lighter texture.
Should chives not be available, replacements can be made with green onions or scallions.
For a bit more kick, spicy brown mustard can be used in place of Dijon mustard.
For a more robust taste, freshly minced garlic can be used in place of garlic powder.
Pro Tips
1. Chill the Filling: After mixing the cream cheese, chives, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, cover and refrigerate the mixture for about 15-20 minutes. This helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to spread on the cheese slices.
2. Thinly Slice the Ingredients: Use very thin slices of salami and provolone to ensure the rolls are tightly packed and well-balanced. You can ask for thin slices at the deli counter if slicing at home is difficult.
3. Even Spread: Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cheese slice. This will ensure uniform flavor and make rolling easier.
4. Chill before Serving: If you have time, let the rolls chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together better and allows the rolls to firm up, making them easier to handle and eat.
5. Experiment with Add-ins: For added crunch and flavor, consider adding a strip of roasted red pepper or a thin cucumber slice inside each roll. This can enhance both the texture and taste of the appetizer.
Salami Cheese Rolls Recipe
My favorite Salami Cheese Rolls Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Medium bowl
2. Mixing spoon or spatula
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Cutting board
5. Knife
6. Serving platter
7. Toothpicks (optional for fastening)
8. Refrigerator (optional for chilling)
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of salami
- 8 slices of provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
2. Place a slice of salami on a solid work surface.
3. On top of the salami, place a slice of provolone cheese.
4. Evenly spread about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture over the provolone slice.
5. From one end to the other, form a tight roll with the salami and cheese.
6. Follow steps 2-5 with the other slices of salami, cheese, and cream cheese mixture.
7. Position the rolls on a serving platter.
8. If you want, you can fasten each roll with a toothpick to keep it in place.
9. Add an extra touch of freshness and color by garnishing with parsley or basil leaves.
10. Serve right away as a first course or chill until you need it. Enjoy!
