Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups: A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

If you’re searching for A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion, look no further than Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups. These bite-sized wonders deliver everything you want in a party starter: creamy, savory, tangy, and just the right amount of crunch if you pair them with pretzels. With only a handful of ingredients but layers of bold flavor and a pop of color, these roll ups will be the first to vanish from your platter, every single time. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, holiday gathering, or game night, this crowd-pleasing recipe is about to earn a recurring role on your table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups such A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion is their simplicity—each ingredient has a real job to do in terms of flavor, texture, or visual appeal. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love each component:

• Salami slices (12 slices): Firm, flavorful salami forms the perfect shell; choose your favorite style for just the right level of savory punch.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces): Softened cream cheese brings the luscious, creamy base that holds the roll ups together.
• Dry chives (2 teaspoons): These pretty green flecks lend a subtle onion note and fresh color to your creamy filling.
• Dry onion (2 teaspoons): Onion powder rounds out the flavor with a mellow, slightly sweet allium hit.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds an aromatic boost that keeps every bite interesting and flavorful.
• Pepper (to taste): A dash of black pepper brightens up the mix and pulls all the flavors into focus.
• Green olives (optional for garnish): If you love briny, punchy flavors, green olives are the garnish for you—pickles or cherry tomatoes make fantastic alternatives.
• Pretzels (optional for serving): Crunchy pretzels are a match made in heaven for these creamy, savory bites, adding contrast and fun to your party platter.

How to Make Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups: A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

Step 1: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

Begin by making the heart of your roll ups: the perfectly seasoned cream cheese filling. Allow your cream cheese to soften at room temperature—this makes mixing a breeze and ensures the ingredients blend smoothly. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with dry chives, dry onion, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir until you have a uniform, creamy mixture bursting with savory aroma. This step only takes a couple of minutes, but it sets the stage for the rich, tangy flavor that makes these appetizers irresistible.

Step 2: Prepare the Salami

Lay your salami slices out flat on a clean cutting board or your work surface. This simple step might seem trivial, but it’s a big help when you’re ready to start assembling. Laying out the slices makes it easy to achieve neat, uniform roll ups and ensures your prep work goes quickly—and who doesn’t love a little efficiency when party prep is underway?

Step 3: Spread the Cream Cheese

Using a small spoon or spatula, evenly spread the cream cheese mixture across each slice of salami. Try to cover the whole slice for the perfect balance of meat and filling in every bite, but don’t make the layer so thick that it oozes out when you roll. This is where you can get creative—if you’re making a double batch, mix in some finely chopped olives, jalapeños, or even a little grated cheese to one half for variety!

Step 4: Roll Up the Salami

Carefully roll up each slice of salami from one end to the other. Rolling tightly without smooshing out the filling is the secret to neat, attractive appetizers. If you’re making these in advance, a little extra care here means they’ll look gorgeous on your serving platter later—no leaks or unraveling.

Step 5: Secure with Toothpicks

Insert a toothpick into each roll to hold everything together. This makes serving easier and keeps your Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups looking tidy on the platter. For a little extra party flair and efficiency, you can even stack two to three roll ups on a single toothpick.

Step 6: Garnish (Optional)

If you want to add pizzazz, top each roll up with a slice of green olive or mini gherkin secured by the toothpick. This not only adds flavor but gives your appetizers a professional, show-stopping look with minimal effort—making your plate truly A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion.

Step 7: Serve

Arrange your roll ups on a serving platter, pile up some pretzels or crunchy snacks on the side, and you’re ready to wow your guests. These can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature. Either way, expect them to disappear quickly!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups: A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion

Garnishes

For maximum appeal, top each roll up with a vibrant green olive or a slice of pickle secured by the toothpick. You can also scatter a little extra chopped chive or parsley over the platter for a garden-fresh look. These little touches make your Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups pop visually and tempt your guests to grab one before they’re all gone.

Side Dishes

Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups shine alongside simple crunchy sides. Think pretzel sticks, crisp veggies like baby bell peppers or cucumber slices, or even classic potato chips for extra crunch. For a more substantial spread, add a cheese platter or fresh fruit for a balanced party table—making A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion even more memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

You can arrange your salami roll ups in fun spiral patterns, create skewers alternating with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls, or serve them in individual appetizer cups with a crunchy garnish. If you’re serving at a fancier gathering, consider tiny forks or decorative picks to make grabbing these treats as delightful as eating them. Presentation helps these roll ups live up to their name: A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any roll ups remaining (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh, creamy, and delicious for up to three days—just keep them well-sealed to prevent the salami from drying out or picking up fridge odors.

Freezing

While these are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Place roll ups in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for about a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, though the cream cheese filling may be a tad softer after thawing.

Reheating

There’s no reheating required for these appetizers! Simply bring the roll ups out of the fridge about 20 minutes before serving to reach the ideal temperature and texture. If you do warm them slightly, use a low setting so the cream cheese doesn’t melt.

FAQs

Can I make these roll ups a day ahead?

Absolutely! Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups are perfect for making in advance. Simply assemble, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. They stay fresh and flavorful, making them a true time saver for parties.

What types of salami work best?

Any large, thin-sliced salami is wonderful here. Genoa, peppered salami, or even mild turkey or chicken salami work great—just avoid overly thick slices, as they’re harder to roll and overpower the creamy filling.

Can I substitute fresh herbs for dry chives?

Yes! If you have fresh chives, use about double the amount for a brighter, fresher flavor. Just be sure to finely chop them so they blend well with the cream cheese.

Are these roll ups keto or low carb?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low carb and high in protein, especially if you skip the pretzels and stick with olives or veggies as sides. They’re a great choice for anyone looking for a satisfying, keto-friendly party snack.

What other fillings could I add?

The possibilities are endless! Try folding in some chopped jalapeños for heat, sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness, or even shredded cheddar for extra richness. Customizing the filling is an easy way to keep A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion exciting every time you make it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups are truly A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion. With their crave-worthy flavors and beautiful presentation, these crowd-pleasers will be gone in a flash—so be sure to make extra and enjoy sharing (and snacking) with your favorite people!

Print