Introduction

These Easy Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups are the perfect no-bake appetizer for any gathering. With just five simple ingredients, they come together in minutes, offering a savory, satisfying bite every time. For another quick and delicious cream cheese treat, try the Easy Blueberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry (Ready in 30 Min).

Ingredients

These Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups offer a perfect bite of savory, creamy, and slightly salty flavors, with a satisfying texture contrast between the soft filling and the chewy salami.

• Salami slices (12 slices): Salami is the primary ingredient in this recipe. Its rich, slightly salty flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling. You can choose from a variety of salamis like Genoa, pepperoni, or even a milder turkey or chicken salami. The size and shape of the slices are important; they should be large enough to wrap around the cream cheese mixture easily but not too thick that they overwhelm the filling.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces): The cream cheese acts as the base for the filling, providing a rich and smooth texture. It’s the ingredient that ties everything together. Be sure to use softened cream cheese, as it will make it much easier to mix with the other ingredients.
• Dry chives (2 teaspoons): Chives offer a subtle oniony flavor that complements both the cream cheese and salami. They also bring a pop of green color that enhances the visual appeal of the roll ups.
• Dry onion (2 teaspoons): The dry onion powder adds a savory, umami-rich flavor to the cream cheese mixture. It enhances the overall depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Garlic powder adds an aromatic, savory flavor that gives the filling a little extra kick. It’s a must-have in this recipe to balance out the richness of the cream cheese and salami.
• Pepper (to taste): A pinch of black pepper is all you need to elevate the flavors. It adds a mild heat and rounds out the seasoning.
• Green olives (optional for garnish): Green olives are optional but make a fantastic garnish. The briny flavor of the olives adds a nice contrast to the creamy filling. If you’re not an olive fan, pickles or cherry tomatoes can be used instead.
• Pretzels (optional for serving): If you’re serving these roll ups on a platter, pretzels make for a great accompaniment. The crunchiness of pretzels contrasts nicely with the creamy roll ups, making them even more enjoyable.

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This no-cook recipe for Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups is about 20% faster than similar appetizer recipes that require baking or chilling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy spreading. Lay out your salami slices on a clean work surface. Gather any additional mix-ins like herbs, spices, or chopped vegetables.

Step 2 — Flavor the Cream Cheese

Place the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Add your chosen seasonings, such as black pepper, garlic powder, or fresh chives. Use a fork or hand mixer to blend until smooth and well-combined.

Tip: For a tangy twist, mix in a teaspoon of ranch seasoning or everything bagel spice.

Step 3 — Assemble the Roll Ups

Take one salami slice and spread a thin, even layer of the flavored cream cheese over it. Place a pickle spear, green onion, or a slice of pepperoni at one end if desired. This creates a delicious filling center.

Step 4 — Roll Them Tightly

Starting from the end with the filling, tightly roll the salami slice around the cream cheese. Apply gentle pressure as you roll to prevent air pockets and ensure it holds its shape.

Tip: If the salami is particularly thin, you can double-layer two slices for a sturdier roll.

Step 5 — Secure and Chill

Place each completed roll seam-side down on a plate or baking sheet. For best results, cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This firms up the cream cheese, making slicing much easier.

Step 6 — Slice and Serve

Remove the chilled Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into ½-inch to 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange them on a serving platter and enjoy immediately.

Tip: For a party, you can slice them ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~110 kcal
Protein	~5 g
Carbohydrates	~1 g
Fat	~9 g
Fiber	~0 g
Sodium	~300 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size. Values can vary with specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

These simple swaps can help tailor your Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups to different dietary needs or flavor preferences without sacrificing the fun, savory appeal.

• Turkey or Chicken Salami — A leaner protein alternative that reduces fat while keeping the classic spiced flavor.
• Low-Fat or Neufchâtel Cream Cheese — Cuts calories and saturated fat but maintains the creamy, tangy base.
• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese — Made from nuts or tofu, this is a perfect swap for a lactose-free or vegan version of the roll ups.
• Low-Sodium Salami — Look for a reduced-sodium variety to help manage salt intake while preserving the meaty texture.
• Cucumber or Bell Pepper Slices — Use these crisp veggies as a wrapper instead of salami for a fresh, low-carb, and gluten-free option.
• Goat Cheese or Ricotta — Swapping the cream cheese offers a tangier or lighter, grainier texture for a flavor twist.
• Add Fresh Herbs or Spinach — Mix finely chopped dill, chives, or wilted spinach into the cheese filling to boost nutrients and add a garden-fresh note.
• Whole-Grain or Seed Crackers — For a deconstructed version, serve the cream cheese mixture as a dip with crackers for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups are perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

Perfect Pairings

• Serve alongside other classic appetizers like Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks or a simple vegetable crudité platter for a balanced spread.
• Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as spicy mustard, ranch dressing, or a sweet pepper jelly to complement the savory filling.
• Pair with crisp, chilled white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager to cut through the richness of the cream cheese.

Ideal Occasions

These roll ups are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They are ideal for game day parties, holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as a quick and satisfying after-school snack. Their make-ahead nature makes them a stress-free choice for busy hosts.

Plating & Presentation Tips

• For a rustic look, arrange the Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups on a wooden board or slate platter.
• Insert festive party picks or small skewers for easy grabbing and a polished presentation.
• Garnish the platter with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, cornichons, and olives to add color and texture.
• If serving as part of a larger charcuterie board, place them next to cured meats, cheeses, and crackers for a complete offering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold cream cheese straight from the fridge. Fix: Let it soften at room temperature for 30 minutes to prevent tearing the salami.
• Mistake: Overfilling the roll-ups. Fix: Use just a teaspoon of spread per slice to ensure a clean, tight roll without squeezing out.
• Mistake: Choosing thin, flimsy salami. Fix: Opt for a thicker, firmer sliced deli salami that can hold the filling without breaking.
• Mistake: Skipping the seasoning in the cream cheese. Fix: Always mix in herbs, spices, or grated cheese to boost flavor and avoid a bland filling.
• Mistake: Rolling them too far in advance. Fix: Assemble no more than 2-3 hours before serving to keep the salami from getting soggy.
• Mistake: Not patting the salami dry. Fix: Blot slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, helping the cream cheese adhere better.
• Mistake: Using a dull knife to slice the roll-ups. Fix: Chill rolls for 15 minutes, then use a sharp serrated knife for clean, neat pinwheels.
• Mistake: Storing them layered or stacked. Fix: Arrange roll-ups in a single layer on a tray to maintain their shape and presentation.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them refrigerated below 40°F (4°C) for food safety.
• Freezer: For longer storage, arrange the roll-ups on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best texture, reheat thawed or chilled salami roll ups in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the salami rubbery.

Always allow your Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

Conclusion

These Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups are the perfect, easy appetizer for any gathering. We hope you love this simple recipe as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. For more delicious ideas featuring cream cheese, check out our Ultimate Fluffy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins and Delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe Guide.

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FAQs

Can I make Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these roll ups a day in advance. Assemble them and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes them a perfect, easy appetizer for parties.

What can I add to the cream cheese filling?

You can easily customize the filling. Try mixing in chopped green onions, fresh herbs, or a dash of garlic powder. These additions complement the savory flavor of the Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups perfectly.

What type of salami works best for this recipe?

Use large, thin slices of hard salami for the best results. They are pliable enough to roll without cracking and hold the cream cheese filling well, creating the classic Cream Cheese Salami Roll Ups texture.