Salami Cream Cheese and Pepperoncini Roll-Ups Recipe

Salami: A type of cured sausage that adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor to the roll-ups.

Cream cheese: Softened to make it easy to spread, this adds a creamy and rich texture to the roll-ups.

Pepperoncini: Sliced and pickled, these peppers add a tangy and mildly spicy kick to the dish.

To achieve a smoother spread of cream cheese on the salami, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before using. This will make it easier to spread evenly without tearing the salami.

• salami - Substitute with turkey pepperoni: Turkey pepperoni offers a similar savory and spicy flavor profile while being lower in fat and calories.

• salami - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto provides a delicate, salty taste that complements the creaminess of the cheese and the tanginess of the pepperoncini.

• cream cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor and creamy texture that works well in roll-ups, adding a unique twist.

• cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that still offers a creamy consistency and can be flavored to taste.

• pepperoncini - Substitute with banana peppers: Banana peppers have a similar mild heat and tangy flavor, making them a great alternative.

• pepperoncini - Substitute with jalapeños: For those who prefer a bit more heat, jalapeños provide a spicier kick while maintaining the peppery flavor.

• For short-term storage, place the salami roll-ups in an airtight container. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together.
• If you need to stack the roll-ups, separate each layer with a piece of parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove individual pieces without damaging them.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. These appetizers will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the roll-ups. First, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other.
• Freeze the roll-ups for about 1-2 hours or until they are firm. This initial freezing step prevents them from sticking together when stored.
• Once frozen, transfer the roll-ups to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the roll-ups in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain the quality of the cream cheese and pepperoncini.
• For best results, consume the thawed roll-ups within a month. The texture and flavor may slightly change after this period, but they will still be safe to eat.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the salami roll-ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until the cream cheese is warm and slightly melty. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

• If you prefer a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the roll-ups on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time if needed, but be cautious not to overheat as the pepperoncini can become too soft.

• For a crispier texture, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F and place the roll-ups on the toaster oven tray. Heat for about 5 minutes, or until the salami edges start to crisp up and the cream cheese is warmed through.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Arrange the roll-ups in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly.

• For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the roll-ups in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cream cheese is warm and the salami is slightly crispy.

• Cutting board: Provides a clean and stable surface to lay out the salami slices.

• Spreading knife: Used to spread the cream cheese evenly on each salami slice.

• Jar opener: Helps to easily open the jar of sliced pepperoncini.

• Toothpicks: Secures the rolled-up salami slices to keep them intact.

• Serving platter: A nice presentation surface to arrange the finished roll-ups for serving.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Soften the cream cheese and slice the pepperoncini in advance to streamline the assembly process.

Use pre-sliced salami: Opt for pre-sliced salami to save time on cutting and ensure uniform thickness.

Batch assembly: Lay out all the salami slices at once, spread the cream cheese, and add the pepperoncini in a single go to speed up the process.

Chill before serving: Prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and chill them in the fridge. This makes them easier to handle and enhances the flavors.