Savory Cucumber and Ham Pinwheels
These vibrant Savory Cucumber and Ham Pinwheels are the perfect light and refreshing treat for any occasion. Combining crisp cucumber with creamy herb-infused cheese and savory deli ham, these bite-sized rolls are not only visually appealing but also easy to prepare. Ideal for a light lunch or as an appetizer for gatherings, they're sure to please both kids and adults alike. Preparation is quick, and with a chilling time of just two hours, you can have these delicious rolls ready to impress your guests in no time!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
English cucumber
1 (Peeled and sliced into strips)
Cream cheese
1 (8 ounce) package (Softened)
Prepared mustard
2 tablespoons (Mixed with cream cheese)
Dill weed
1 teaspoon (Mixed with cream cheese)
Deli ham
8 slices (Rectangular and used as a wrap)
Instructions
1
Peel the English cucumber and cut it in half lengthwise.
2
Carefully scoop out the seeds using a spoon (a grapefruit spoon works wonderfully for this task).
3
Cut each cucumber half into four equal strips, creating eight total strips. Set these cucumber strips aside.
4
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, prepared mustard, and dill weed. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
5
Lay out a slice of ham on a clean surface and spread approximately 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the ham slice.
6
Place one cucumber strip at the edge of the ham slice, on the wide side. Roll the ham tightly around the cucumber, jelly-roll style, ensuring to keep it snug.
7
Trim any excess cucumber that extends beyond the edge of the ham slice for a neat finish.
8
Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring they are sealed properly to retain freshness.
9
Refrigerate the wrapped rolls for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the rolls firm up.
10
Once chilled, remove the rolls from the wrap and slice them into ¾-inch pinwheels. Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Cucumber and Ham Pinwheels?
These are light and refreshing bite-sized appetizers made with crisp cucumber, herb-infused cream cheese, and savory deli ham.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need one English cucumber, 8 ounces of cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of prepared mustard, 1 teaspoon of dill weed, and 8 slices of deli ham.
How should I prepare the cucumber?
Peel the cucumber, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and cut each half into four strips for a total of eight strips.
What is the best way to remove seeds from the cucumber?
A spoon, specifically a grapefruit spoon, is recommended for easily scooping out the seeds.
What kind of cucumber works best for pinwheels?
An English cucumber is best for this recipe because of its length and texture.
How do I make the cream cheese mixture?
Combine softened cream cheese, prepared mustard, and dill weed in a mixing bowl and mix until smooth.
What type of ham is recommended?
The recipe suggests using rectangular slices of deli ham, which are ideal for wrapping the cucumber strips.
How much filling should I spread on the ham?
Spread approximately 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice of ham.
How do I assemble the pinwheels?
Place a cucumber strip at the wide edge of a ham slice and roll it tightly around the cucumber in a jelly-roll style.
Should I trim the cucumber strips?
Yes, trim any excess cucumber that extends beyond the edge of the ham for a neat finish.
Why do the rolls need to be wrapped in plastic?
Wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap helps them retain their shape and stay fresh while chilling.
How long should the pinwheels chill?
The wrapped rolls should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the rolls firm up.
Can I skip the chilling process?
Chilling is necessary to ensure the rolls are firm enough to slice neatly into pinwheels.
How thick should I slice the pinwheels?
Once chilled, slice the rolls into 3/4-inch thick pinwheels.
Are these pinwheels kid-friendly?
Yes, they are a fun, visual, and mild-flavored snack that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Are these suitable for a party?
Yes, they are perfect finger foods and appetizers for gatherings or light lunches.
Can I make these pinwheels in advance?
Yes, they actually require a minimum of 2 hours in the fridge, making them great for prep-ahead planning.
How many cucumber strips should I have in total?
You should have eight cucumber strips to match the eight slices of ham.
Can I use fresh dill instead of dill weed?
Yes, you can substitute fresh dill, though you may need to adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
What kind of mustard should be used?
The recipe calls for prepared mustard, such as yellow or Dijon, to be mixed with the cream cheese.
How should I store leftover pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cucumber crisp.
How long do these stay fresh?
They are best eaten within 24 hours to ensure the cucumber remains crunchy and the ham stays fresh.
Can I use turkey instead of ham?
Yes, deli turkey slices can be used as a delicious alternative to ham.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, this recipe is naturally low-carb as it uses cucumber and protein instead of bread or tortillas.
What if I don't have a grapefruit spoon?
A regular small teaspoon will work perfectly fine for scooping out the cucumber seeds.
Should I peel the cucumber completely?
Yes, the instructions recommend peeling the English cucumber before slicing.
How do I prevent the rolls from falling apart?
Rolling the ham tightly and allowing the rolls to chill for the full 2 hours will help them stay together.
What is the total preparation time including chilling?
The active prep time is quick, but you must factor in the 2-hour chilling time.
Can I add other spices to the filling?
Yes, feel free to add garlic powder or black pepper to the cream cheese for extra flavor.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
No, it contains deli ham, but you can omit the ham for a vegetarian-friendly cucumber and cream cheese roll.