Southwestern Pinwheels

Southwestern Pinwheels Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Southwestern Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any gathering or party. These pinwheels are filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onion, adobo sauce, cilantro, and cumin, all rolled up in a tortilla and sliced into bite-sized pieces. They are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any spread.

History

The exact origins of Southwestern Pinwheels are unclear, but they are believed to have been inspired by traditional Southwestern flavors and ingredients. The combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and spices like cumin and cilantro is a classic one in Southwestern cuisine, and these flavors work together beautifully in these pinwheels.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) of softened light cream cheese
0.25 cup of finely shredded Mexican-style or sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp of thinly sliced green onion
2 tbsp of chunky salsa or 0.5 tbsp of chopped, canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
2 tbsp of chopped fresh cilantro
0.5 tsp of ground cumin
2 (10 inches) of green chile or spinach-flavored flour tortillas
12 small cilantro strips for garnish
spinach leaves
salsa

How to prepare

In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, green onion, salsa, chopped cilantro, and cumin. Mix well.
Spread the mixture evenly over tortillas.
Place a layer of spinach over the cheese.
Roll the tortillas tightly and wrap them in plastic.
Chill the wrapped tortillas for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours.
Cut the chilled tortillas crosswise into 1-inch pieces and arrange them cut side up on a serving platter.
Garnish each pinwheel with a sprig of cilantro.
Cover and chill for up to 1 hour before serving.
Serve the pinwheels with a dollop of salsa on top.

Variations

Substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
Add cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham to the filling for extra flavor.
Use flavored tortillas like spinach or sun-dried tomato for a colorful twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.

- Use a sharp knife to slice the chilled tortillas into pinwheels for clean and neat cuts.

- For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapenos to the filling mixture.

- Customize the filling by adding ingredients like diced tomatoes, black beans, or cooked chicken for extra flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southwestern Pinwheels as an appetizer at parties, potlucks, or game day gatherings. They pair well with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Chilling the rolled tortillas before slicing them helps the pinwheels hold their shape and makes them easier to cut into neat slices.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular cream cheese instead of light cream cheese if preferred.

- Replace the adobo sauce with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smokier flavor.

- Swap the green onion with red onion or shallots for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Southwestern Pinwheels can be assembled and chilled up to 8 hours in advance. Slice them into pinwheels right before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced pinwheels on a platter in a decorative pattern for an eye-catching presentation. Garnish each pinwheel with a sprig of cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Southwestern Pinwheels with a side of fresh fruit, like pineapple or mango, for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the pinwheels. They also pair well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Southwestern Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Southwestern Pinwheels contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Southwestern Pinwheels contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Southwestern Pinwheels contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Southwestern Pinwheels contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Southwestern Pinwheels are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Southwestern Pinwheels contain dairy (cream cheese and cheddar cheese) and wheat (tortillas).

Summary

Southwestern Pinwheels are a flavorful and satisfying appetizer that is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates. They are a good source of protein and calcium, making them a nutritious choice for a snack or party food.

Summary

Southwestern Pinwheels are a tasty and versatile appetizer that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful filling of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and spices rolled up in a tortilla, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack, party food, or light meal, and customize the filling to suit your taste preferences.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Southwestern Pinwheels. It was during a family gathering at my cousin's house in Texas. The aroma of spices and flavors wafted through the air as my cousin, who is an amazing cook, prepared these delicious appetizers for everyone to enjoy.

As I watched her effortlessly roll out the dough and spread the filling, I knew I had to learn how to make these myself. My cousin graciously shared the recipe with me, and from that moment on, Southwestern Pinwheels became a staple at all of my gatherings.

The key to making these pinwheels truly delicious is the combination of flavors. The filling consists of cream cheese, green chilies, black beans, corn, and a variety of spices such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. These ingredients come together to create a burst of flavor in every bite.

To start, I mix the cream cheese with the green chilies and spices until it is smooth and well combined. I then add in the black beans and corn, stirring until everything is evenly distributed. The filling is now ready to be spread onto the tortillas.

I lay out the tortillas and evenly spread the filling on top of each one, making sure to leave a small border around the edges. Next, I carefully roll up the tortillas tightly, forming a log shape. I wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Once chilled, I unwrap the tortilla logs and slice them into pinwheels. The beautiful swirls of filling are visible in each slice, making them not only delicious but visually appealing as well. I arrange the pinwheels on a platter and garnish them with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of paprika for an extra pop of color.

As I serve these Southwestern Pinwheels to my family and friends, I am met with smiles and compliments on how delicious they are. The combination of flavors and textures in each bite never fails to impress, and I am always happy to share the recipe with anyone who asks.

Over the years, I have made these pinwheels for countless gatherings and events, each time receiving rave reviews from those who try them. They have become a signature dish of mine, and I am always excited to make them for new people to enjoy.

In a way, these Southwestern Pinwheels have become more than just a recipe to me. They are a reminder of that day in Texas when I first learned how to make them, and the joy they bring to all who taste them. I am grateful for my cousin's generosity in sharing the recipe with me, as it has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

As I continue to cook and create new dishes, I will always hold a special place in my heart for these Southwestern Pinwheels. They are a reminder of the power of sharing recipes and the joy that good food can bring to those we love. And for that, I am truly grateful.