These Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Pinwheels are a vibrant, protein-packed appetizer that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Featuring fiber-rich tortillas, creamy roasted red pepper hummus, lean deli meat, and melty cheese, they deliver a balanced mix of plant-based protein, good fats, and low saturated fat.
Quick to assemble, they’re perfect for everyday snacking, parties, or meal prep.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Pinwheels
Equipment
- 1 cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 Small spatula or butter knife (for spreading hummus)
- 1 Toothpicks (optional, for securing pinwheels)
- 1 Plate or tray (for serving)
Ingredients
- 4 large spinach and herb-flavored tortillas
- 8 tablespoons roasted red pepper hummus such as Sabra
- 8 ounces thinly sliced ham or turkey
- 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese cut into 1-ounce slices
- ⅔ cup roasted red bell pepper slices drained
- Optional: Sabra Farmer’s Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace: Before starting, clear a clean, flat surface for rolling the tortillas. Lay out a cutting board, a sharp knife, a small spatula, and a plate or tray for the finished pinwheels. Having everything organized will make assembly faster and prevent the tortillas from tearing.
- Spread the Hummus Evenly: Take one spinach and herb-flavored tortilla and lay it flat on the cutting board. Using a small spatula or butter knife, scoop about 2 tablespoons of roasted red pepper hummus and spread it evenly across the entire surface of the tortilla. Make sure the hummus reaches all edges for consistent flavor in every bite. Repeat this step for all four tortillas.
- Layer the Meat: Place 2 ounces of thinly sliced ham or turkey over the hummus layer on each tortilla. Arrange the slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping if necessary, to ensure every pinwheel bite contains savory protein. Press gently so the meat adheres to the hummus.
- Add Cheese Slices: Next, add 2 ounces of Colby Jack cheese slices to each tortilla, covering the meat evenly. Ensure the cheese slices are arranged so that every section of the rolled tortilla has a good cheese-to-meat ratio. This layering adds creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Place Roasted Red Pepper Strips: Take the roasted red bell pepper slices and lay them in a neat line along one edge of each tortilla, leaving about half an inch from the edge. These peppers will be the visual and flavor centerpiece of the pinwheels, so arranging them neatly ensures a beautiful spiral pattern once rolled.
- Roll the Tortillas Tightly: Starting from the edge with the roasted red peppers, gently but firmly roll the tortilla into a tight cylinder. Keep the roll snug to prevent the fillings from falling out. Press lightly along the seam to seal the roll. Repeat this rolling process for all four tortillas.
- Slice Into Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, cut each rolled tortilla into 1-inch-thick pinwheel slices.Try to make even cuts for uniform pinwheels. If desired, secure each slice with a toothpick to hold it together, especially if serving at a party or buffet.
- Arrange for Serving: Place the pinwheels neatly on a serving plate or tray. If using, serve alongside a small bowl of Sabra Farmer's Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip for extra flavor. The pinwheels can also be stacked or arranged in a circular pattern for a visually appealing presentation.
- Enjoy Immediately or Store: These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If prepping ahead, slice them just before serving to maintain their firm shape and freshness.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality tortillas to prevent tearing and ensure a soft, pliable wrap. Spinach and herb-flavored tortillas add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
- When spreading hummus, work slowly and evenly to coat the entire surface of the tortilla, which helps the fillings stick and prevents dry spots.
- Slice the pinwheels with a sharp knife to maintain clean edges and prevent the fillings from spilling. Wetting the knife lightly can help achieve smoother cuts.
- Optional toothpicks can help keep the pinwheels together for serving, especially if you’re transporting them for parties or picnics.
- Feel free to swap deli meats or cheese for alternatives to suit dietary preferences, such as roasted turkey, chicken breast, or a plant-based cheese.
Chef’s Secrets: Enhance Flavor And Texture
To elevate these pinwheels, choose roasted red peppers with a natural sweetness and smoky undertone—they complement the creamy hummus perfectly.
Layering the cheese and meat carefully ensures each bite has a balanced flavor profile.
Rolling the tortillas tightly is essential; a snug roll keeps all ingredients contained and creates the signature spiral presentation.
For extra flavor, lightly toast the rolled tortillas in a nonstick pan for one to two minutes before slicing, giving the edges a subtle crispness without compromising softness inside.
Serving Suggestions: Pairings And Presentation Ideas
These pinwheels shine as party appetizers, lunchbox snacks, or light meal additions.
Serve them on a large platter arranged in a circular pattern to highlight the colorful spiral of red peppers, cheese, and meat.
Pair with a fresh side salad, veggie sticks, or your favorite Greek yogurt dip for a satisfying, balanced bite.
They also work well alongside fresh fruit or pickles for a variety of textures.
For kid-friendly serving, cut them slightly smaller to make finger-sized snacks that are easy to grab.
Storage Tips: Keep Pinwheels Fresh Longer
For the best results, store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They can be kept for up to 2 days without losing texture or flavor.
Avoid slicing too far in advance, as the tortilla may dry out and the fillings may shift.
If preparing in advance for a party, consider rolling the tortillas but waiting to slice them until just before serving.
Pinwheels can also be wrapped individually in plastic wrap for easy transport or lunchbox convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular spinach tortilla with a gluten-free wrap. Be sure it is pliable to prevent cracking during rolling.
2. Can I use different types of hummus?
Absolutely. Roasted red pepper hummus is ideal for sweetness and color, but you can also try garlic, classic, or spicy hummus variations. Adjust fillings for complementary flavors.
3. Can I prepare pinwheels ahead of time?
You can roll them a few hours in advance, but slice them right before serving to maintain shape and freshness. Store rolled but unsliced tortillas wrapped in plastic.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Replace the meat with roasted vegetables, marinated tofu, or tempeh, and use a plant-based cheese. The hummus provides protein and creaminess to keep the flavor rich.
5. What is the best way to serve them at parties?
Arrange the pinwheels on a platter with colorful garnishes, such as fresh herbs or cherry tomatoes.
Offer dips like Greek yogurt ranch, tzatziki, or balsamic glaze for added flavor options. Toothpicks make them easy to pick up without mess.
