Zesty Mexican Pinwheel Bites
These Zesty Mexican Pinwheel Bites are a fun and flavorful addition to any gathering, whether it's an office party or a backyard barbecue. Filled with creamy cheese, zesty picante sauce, and fresh herbs, these spirals are not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. They can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for entertaining without the stress. Serve them cold or at room temperature for a delightful appetizer that your guests will love.
10
Servings
120
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Flour Tortillas
8-10 (8 1/2 inch, room temperature)
Cream Cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Picante Sauce
3/4 cup (mild or medium heat)
Cilantro
1/2 cup (roughly chopped)
Green Onion Tops
1 tablespoon (diced finely)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or a fork until smooth and creamy.
2
Add the picante sauce, chopped cilantro, and diced green onion tops to the cream cheese. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3
Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each flour tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4
Starting from one end, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
5
Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
6
When ready to serve, unwrap the rolls and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
7
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving tray and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
9g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Mexican Pinwheel Bites?
Zesty Mexican Pinwheel Bites are flavorful appetizers made of tortillas filled with cream cheese, picante sauce, cilantro, and green onions, rolled into spirals.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 10 servings.
What are the primary ingredients for these pinwheels?
The main ingredients include flour tortillas, cream cheese, picante sauce, cilantro, and green onion tops.
Can I make these pinwheels in advance?
Yes, these are excellent make-ahead snacks and should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours before serving.
How long should the tortillas be refrigerated?
They should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, though overnight is preferred for the flavors to fully meld.
What size of tortillas is recommended?
The recipe calls for 8.5-inch flour tortillas at room temperature.
Are these pinwheel bites vegetarian?
Yes, based on the ingredient list, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
How many calories are in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
What kind of picante sauce should I use?
You can use either mild or medium heat picante sauce depending on your preference.
How thick should I slice the pinwheels?
The rolled tortillas should be sliced into 1-inch pieces.
Should these be served hot or cold?
These pinwheels are best served cold or at room temperature.
How much cream cheese is required for this recipe?
You will need one 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese.
Do I need special equipment to mix the filling?
A hand mixer is recommended for a creamy texture, but a fork can also be used to blend the ingredients.
How many tortillas does the recipe use?
The recipe requires 8 to 10 flour tortillas.
Can I use spicy picante sauce?
Yes, while mild or medium is suggested, you can use spicy sauce if you prefer more heat.
Is fresh cilantro necessary?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/2 cup of roughly chopped fresh cilantro for a zesty flavor.
What is the best way to roll the tortillas?
Spread the filling leaving a small border, then roll tightly starting from one end into a log shape.
Which part of the green onion is used?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 tablespoon of finely diced green onion tops.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Flour tortillas are recommended because they are more pliable and easier to roll without breaking.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 3 grams of protein.
Are these suitable for an office party?
Yes, they are described as a fun and flavorful addition to office parties or backyard barbecues.
What is the fat content for this snack?
There are 7.5 grams of fat per serving.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Leave a small border around the edges of the tortilla when spreading the cream cheese mixture.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 9 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
Why must the rolls be wrapped in plastic?
Wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap helps them maintain their shape and keeps the tortilla moist while chilling.
Should the cream cheese be cold when mixing?
No, the cream cheese should be softened to ensure a smooth and creamy blend.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
While this is the base recipe, pinwheels are versatile; however, this specific version focuses on picante and herbs.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized under Lunch/Snacks and serves as an appetizer.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: tortillas, cream cheese, picante sauce, cilantro, and green onions.
How should I arrange them for a party?
Arrange the sliced 1-inch pieces on a serving tray to showcase the colorful spiral filling.