Fiesta Mexican Roll-Ups
These Fiesta Mexican Roll-Ups are a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors wrapped into convenient bite-sized pinwheels. Ideal for parties, picnics, or as a delicious snack, these roll-ups feature a harmonious blend of cream cheese, green chilies, black olives, and the unmistakable zest of ranch and taco seasoning. Ready in no time with minimal cooking involved, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. For an extra touch, serve with a side of sour cream or salsa for dipping!
24
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream Cheese
16 ounces (softened)
Chopped Green Chilies
4 ounces (drained)
Chopped Black Olives
4 ounces (drained)
Pimiento
1/4 cup (drained)
Taco Seasoning Mix
1.25 ounces (package)
Dry Ranch Dressing Mix
1 ounce (package)
Large Flour Tortillas
10-12
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped green chilies, chopped black olives, drained pimiento, taco seasoning mix, and ranch dressing mix. Mix thoroughly until well combined and creamy.
2
Lay out each flour tortilla on a flat surface, and evenly spread the cream cheese mixture across the entire surface of the tortilla.
3
Carefully roll each tortilla up tightly to form a log shape. Wrap each log in plastic wrap to ensure they hold their shape.
4
Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
5
Remove the roll-ups from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Using a sharp knife, cut each roll into 1-inch slices to form pinwheels.
6
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and optionally serve with a side of sour cream or salsa for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Fiesta Mexican Roll-Ups?
Fiesta Mexican Roll-Ups are creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy bite-sized pinwheels made by rolling a seasoned cream cheese mixture in flour tortillas.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 24 servings.
What are the main ingredients in the filling?
The filling consists of cream cheese, green chilies, black olives, pimiento, taco seasoning, and dry ranch dressing mix.
How long do the roll-ups need to chill?
The wrapped logs should be refrigerated for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for easier slicing.
Can I make these roll-ups in advance?
Yes, these are an excellent make-ahead appetizer. You can keep the logs refrigerated for several hours or overnight before slicing.
What should I serve with Fiesta Mexican Roll-Ups?
They are delicious on their own but can be served with a side of sour cream or salsa for dipping.
How many tortillas do I need?
You will need between 10 to 12 large flour tortillas for this recipe.
Are these roll-ups spicy?
They have a mild zest from the green chilies and taco seasoning, but they are generally not considered very hot.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, though the texture may be slightly less firm than full-fat versions.
How thick should I slice the pinwheels?
It is recommended to cut the rolls into 1-inch thick slices.
Do I need to cook the ingredients?
No cooking is required; you only need to mix the ingredients, spread them on tortillas, and chill.
Should the green chilies and olives be drained?
Yes, it is important to drain the green chilies, black olives, and pimientos to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, you can easily add shredded chicken or finely crumbled taco meat for a heartier version.
How do I prevent the tortillas from tearing?
Using room-temperature tortillas makes them more flexible and less likely to tear during the rolling process.
What is the best way to slice them neatly?
Use a very sharp serrated knife or a chef's knife and a gentle sawing motion to avoid squashing the rolls.
Can I use corn tortillas instead?
Flour tortillas are recommended because they are more pliable and hold their shape better when rolled than corn tortillas.
Are these roll-ups gluten-free?
As written, they contain flour tortillas which have gluten. You would need to use gluten-free tortillas to make them gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long will leftovers last?
They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days, as the tortillas may begin to soften over time.
Can I freeze these roll-ups?
Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the cream cheese and vegetables can change significantly upon thawing.
Is there a substitute for pimientos?
You can substitute finely chopped red bell pepper if you do not have pimientos.
Can I omit the black olives?
Yes, if you are not a fan of olives, you can simply leave them out or replace them with extra chilies or bell peppers.
What size taco seasoning package is used?
The recipe calls for one standard 1.25-ounce package of taco seasoning mix.
What size ranch dressing mix is used?
The recipe uses one 1-ounce package of dry ranch dressing mix.
How do I soften the cream cheese?
Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before mixing.
Can I use flavored tortillas like spinach or sun-dried tomato?
Absolutely! Flavored tortillas add extra color and a slight variation in taste that works well with this filling.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as the ranch and taco seasonings used do not contain animal-derived byproducts.
Why do I need to wrap them in plastic wrap?
Wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap helps the logs maintain their round shape and prevents the tortillas from drying out in the fridge.
Can I add jalapeños for more heat?
Yes, adding finely chopped fresh or pickled jalapeños is a great way to increase the spice level.
Can I add green onions?
Yes, finely chopped green onions are a popular addition that adds extra flavor and crunch to the filling.