Keto Salami Roll-Ups Appetizer are a simple and tasty snack that’s perfect for anyone watching their carbs. These little roll-ups are made with slices of savory salami wrapped around creamy cheese and sometimes a bit of fresh herbs or crunchy veggies for extra flavor and texture. They’re quick to make and super satisfying, especially if you love salty, cheesy bites.
I love making these roll-ups when I need a fast appetizer for friends or a low-carb snack that doesn’t feel boring. What’s great is you can easily switch up the fillings to keep things interesting — sometimes I add a little bit of cream cheese mixed with garlic powder, and other times I sneak in some sliced pickles or bell peppers. They’re always a hit and everyone asks for the recipe!
These roll-ups are fantastic served chilled right from the fridge, especially at parties or as a lunchbox treat. I like to arrange them on a platter with some olives and nuts to create a nice spread. Plus, they’re easy to grab and eat with your fingers, which makes them perfect for casual gatherings or even movie nights at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salami: This is the main ingredient that gives the roll-ups their bold, meaty flavor. Choose a good quality, nitrate-free salami if possible. You can swap with pepperoni or thinly sliced prosciutto for a different taste.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and helps bind the filling. Softened cream cheese spreads easily. If you want a dairy-free option, try a nut-based cream cheese.
Mozzarella Cheese: I like using shredded mozzarella for its mild flavor and stretchiness. If you prefer a sharper taste, try cheddar or Monterey Jack instead.
Fresh Herbs: Chives and parsley brighten up the filling with fresh flavor. You can also use dill, basil, or green onions depending on what you have on hand.
How Do You Roll the Salami Without Tearing It?
Rolling the salami slices smoothly is key to making neat roll-ups. Here’s how I do it:
- Lay the salami flat on a cutting board.
- Spread the cheese mixture thinly but evenly to avoid lumps.
- Start rolling gently from one end, keeping the filling inside.
- If the salami is drying out or brittle, soften it for a few seconds in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Be patient and roll slowly to keep the salami intact, then slice carefully with a sharp knife for tidy pinwheels.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cutting board – gives you a clean, flat surface to lay out and roll the salami without slipping.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing the roll-ups into neat pieces easy and clean.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for combining the cream cheese, shredded cheese, and herbs smoothly.
- Spoon or small spatula – helps spread the cheese mixture evenly over each salami slice.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese to add a mild kick and extra creaminess.
- Add thin strips of roasted red pepper or sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy twist.
- Stir in a little finely chopped jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat when you want a spicy bite.
- Use turkey or ham slices instead of salami for a milder flavor that kids might prefer.
Keto Salami Roll-Ups Appetizer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 slices of salami
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You can serve these roll-ups immediately or chill them for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up a bit for easier slicing and a cooler appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Work Area and Ingredients:
Lay out the salami slices on a clean, flat cutting board or surface where you’ll be rolling your appetizers. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth, creamy spread.
2. Assemble the Roll-Ups:
Spread a thin, even layer of the cheese mixture over each slice of salami. Work carefully to make sure the cheese covers the salami but isn’t too thick to make rolling difficult.
3. Roll and Slice:
Starting at one end, tightly roll each salami slice around the cheese filling to form a spiral. Once rolled, slice each roll into 1-inch pieces to create bite-sized pinwheels that are perfect for appetizers.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Arrange your roll-ups on a serving platter. Garnish with extra freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately, or chill for 15-20 minutes if you prefer a firmer texture.
Can I Use Different Meats Instead of Salami?
Absolutely! You can substitute salami with pepperoni, prosciutto, or even turkey slices for a milder flavor. Just choose thin slices for easy rolling.
How Long Can I Store These Roll-Ups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the roll-ups and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes slicing easier.
What Other Fillings Can I Add?
Try adding finely chopped roasted red peppers, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
