Mexican Pinwheels

How to make Mexican Pinwheels

Ingredients:

12 ounce cream cheese softened

1/2 cup sour cream

1 10 ounce can rotel drained (tomatoes with green chilis)

1/2 green bell pepper finely diced

2 cups chicken cooked and shredded

2 cups Mexican cheese shredded

2 Tablespoons Homemade Taco Seasoning

2 Tablespoons green onion chopped

2 tablespoons cilantro chopped

6 flour tortillas

Instructions:

In a large bowl or stand mixer combine cream cheese, sour cream, rotel, bell pepper, chicken, cheese, taco seasoning, green onions and cilantro. Using the mixer or hand mixer beat together until smooth.

Place 1/4- ½ cup of the mixture on the tortilla and spread leaving about an inch from the edges. Roll up tightly and refrigerate for an hour.

Slice into one inch pinwheels and serve.

Nutrition Information:

Nutrition Facts for Mexican Pinwheels (per serving, assuming 6 servings in total):

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE 1

Calories: 450 kcal | Total Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 680mg | Total Carbohydrates: 25g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 3g | Protein: 18g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

While the recipe calls for Mexican shredded cheese, you can experiment with other cheese varieties like cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.

However, using Mexican cheese will provide the traditional flavors of the dish.

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.

They should be good for up to 24 hours before serving.

Are these pinwheels suitable for vegetarians?

This particular recipe includes cooked and shredded chicken, making it non-vegetarian.

However, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken or replacing it with a plant-based protein substitute like black beans or tofu.

Can I freeze the pinwheels for later use?

Freezing the pinwheels is possible, but it may affect the texture of the cream cheese filling. If you plan to freeze them, it’s best to skip the fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cilantro, as they can become watery upon thawing.

Wrap the pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks.

What can I serve alongside Mexican Pinwheels?

Mexican Pinwheels are versatile and can be served as appetizers, party snacks, or even as a light lunch.

You can serve them with salsa, guacamole, or a creamy dipping sauce to complement the flavors.

Additionally, a side salad with fresh greens and avocado would be a refreshing accompaniment.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning instead of homemade?

Yes, you can use store-bought taco seasoning if you don’t have the homemade version on hand.

Just be sure to adjust the quantity according to the strength of the store-bought seasoning, as it may vary in flavor intensity.

What can I substitute for chicken to make a vegetarian version?

To make a vegetarian version of Mexican Pinwheels, you can omit the chicken and use alternatives like cooked black beans, diced tofu, or roasted vegetables as the protein filling.

How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy?

To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy, make sure to drain the rotel tomatoes and pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the cream cheese mixture.

Additionally, avoid overloading the tortillas with the filling, as excess moisture can cause them to become soggy.

Can I make Mexican Pinwheels in advance for a party?

Yes, Mexican Pinwheels are a great make-ahead appetizer for parties. After rolling and refrigerating the pinwheels, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain their shape and freshness.

They can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance.