Hello, food lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion—Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites. These tasty bites are not only easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a quick snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Introduction
Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites are a delicious and elegant appetizer that combines the rich flavors of crabmeat, cream cheese, and fresh vegetables. This dish has its roots in classic American party fare, where finger foods are always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, tangy filling wrapped in soft tortillas creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist.
I first made these pinwheel bites for a family gathering, and they quickly became a favorite. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also look beautiful on a platter, making them an ideal choice for entertaining. What makes this recipe special is the use of fresh ingredients like green onions and sweet red peppers, which add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting recipe for Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites, you’ll need:
- 1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1 can (6 ounces) crabmeat, drained, flaked, and cartilage removed
- 3/4 cup diced sweet red pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 6 flour tortillas (6 inches)
Optional substitutions:
- If you prefer, you can substitute the crabmeat with cooked shrimp or even canned tuna. For a vegetarian version, you could use finely chopped artichoke hearts or mushrooms instead. These substitutions will slightly alter the flavor but will still result in a delicious appetizer.
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How to Make Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites:
- Prepare the Filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth in a mixing bowl. This ensures a creamy base for the filling.
- Add the Ingredients: Stir in the crab, red pepper, cheddar cheese, green onions, parsley, and cayenne pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Spread the Filling: Spread about 1/3 cup of the filling over each tortilla. Be sure to spread it evenly to ensure that each bite is packed with flavor.
- Roll and Chill: Roll up the tortillas tightly. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap, twisting the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are chilling.
- Slice and Bake: Unwrap the rolls, trim the ends, and cut each roll into 6 slices. Place the pinwheels on baking sheets coated with cooking spray.
- Bake: Bake for about 10 minutes or until the pinwheels are bubbly and lightly golden. Serve warm and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pinwheel rolls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just slice and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- Variation: For a bit of extra crunch, you can add some finely chopped celery to the filling.
- Cutting Tip: Use a sharp knife to cut the pinwheels. If the filling is too soft, you can pop the rolls in the freezer for a few minutes to firm them up before slicing.
Cooking Tips
For the best results when making these Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites, here are a few additional tips:
- Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend with the other ingredients.
- Rolling: When rolling the tortillas, try to keep them as tight as possible to prevent the filling from spilling out when you slice them.
- Equipment: If you have a food processor, you can use it to quickly combine the filling ingredients, which saves time and ensures a smoother texture.
Serving Suggestions
Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Appetizer Platter: Arrange the pinwheels on a large platter with a side of dipping sauce, such as a spicy aioli or a tangy cocktail sauce.
- Party Buffet: These bites are great for a buffet table alongside other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms or mini quiches.
- Garnish: Sprinkle some extra parsley or a dash of paprika on top for a pop of color.
Nutritional Information
These Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites are not only delicious but also relatively light, making them a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Potassium: 100mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 500 IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 0.8mg
These bites provide a good source of protein and calcium, while being relatively low in calories and fat. The inclusion of crabmeat offers heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making this appetizer both tasty and nutritious.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, simply place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.
You can also enjoy these pinwheels cold, making them a convenient option for a quick snack or lunch on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze the pinwheel bites? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheel rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator, slice, and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for crabmeat? If you’re not a fan of crab or have a seafood allergy, you can substitute it with cooked chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor will change depending on the substitute you choose.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out when slicing? To avoid the filling from oozing out, make sure to roll the tortillas tightly and chill the rolls thoroughly before slicing. Using a sharp knife and a quick, decisive cutting motion will also help.
Related Recipes
If you loved these Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites, you might also enjoy these related recipes:
-
Overnight Sausage, Potato, And Egg Bake: The Perfect Breakfast Dish
-
Hearty Southern Breakfast Enchiladas Smothered In Creamy Sausage Gravy
Explore these recipes for more delicious ideas that are sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Conclusion
I hope you’re excited to try these Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites at your next gathering. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to share your experience with this recipe in the comments below. Whether you stick to the original or put your own twist on it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!
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Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites
Description
Hello, food lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion—Savory Crab-Filled Pinwheel Bites. These tasty bites are not only easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a quick snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1 can (6 ounces) crabmeat, drained, flaked, and cartilage removed
- 3/4 cup diced sweet red pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 6 flour tortillas (6 inches)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth in a mixing bowl. This ensures a creamy base for the filling.
- Add the Ingredients: Stir in the crab, red pepper, cheddar cheese, green onions, parsley, and cayenne pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Spread the Filling: Spread about 1/3 cup of the filling over each tortilla. Be sure to spread it evenly to ensure that each bite is packed with flavor.
- Roll and Chill: Roll up the tortillas tightly. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap, twisting the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are chilling.
- Slice and Bake: Unwrap the rolls, trim the ends, and cut each roll into 6 slices. Place the pinwheels on baking sheets coated with cooking spray.
- Bake: Bake for about 10 minutes or until the pinwheels are bubbly and lightly golden. Serve warm and enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pinwheel rolls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just slice and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- Variation: For a bit of extra crunch, you can add some finely chopped celery to the filling.
- Cutting Tip: Use a sharp knife to cut the pinwheels. If the filling is too soft, you can pop the rolls in the freezer for a few minutes to firm them up before slicing.
