Italian Sub Bites capture all the vibrant, savory flavors of a classic Italian sub sandwich in a fun, portable pinwheel format that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or easy snacking. These elegant little bites feature a creamy, seasoned cream cheese spread that acts as both a flavorful binder and a tangy counterpoint to the layers of thinly sliced ham, salami, and mozzarella. The addition of roasted red peppers and peperoncini provides bursts of sweet and spicy flavor, while fresh basil adds an aromatic freshness that cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese. All these components are neatly rolled in soft flour tortillas, then sliced into perfect bite-sized spirals that reveal their beautiful layered interior.
What makes these Italian Sub Bites so exceptional is their clever construction and make-ahead convenience. By slightly overlapping two tortillas, you create a wider surface that allows for a substantial filling without compromising the structural integrity of the roll. The cream cheese mixture not only adds fantastic flavor with its blend of Italian seasoning and garlic but also helps keep the tortilla moist and the ingredients firmly in place. Assembling the rolls ahead of time and chilling them before slicing is the key to neat, clean cuts that hold their shape beautifully on a platter. These bites offer the satisfying combination of textures and flavors you’d expect from a great Italian sub—salty, savory, creamy, and crisp—all in one elegant, easy-to-eat package that’s sure to disappear quickly at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• All the Flavor of an Italian Sub: Captures the classic combination of meats, cheese, and peppers in every bite
• Perfect for Parties: Easy to make ahead and serve a crowd
• No Cooking Required: Simple assembly with ready-to-use ingredients
• Visually Impressive: The colorful spiral slices look beautiful on any platter
Ingredients:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
• 1 (12 oz) jar roasted red pepper slices, drained well
• 1 (12 oz) jar peperoncini, drained well
• ½ lb ham, sliced thin
• ½ lb salami, sliced thin
• ½ lb mozzarella cheese, sliced
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
• Toothpicks for securing
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Cream Cheese Spread
• In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Arrange Tortilla Base
• Lay two tortillas side by side on a clean work surface, overlapping them by about 2 inches in the center to create one wide surface. Repeat with the remaining two tortillas.
Step 3: Spread Cream Cheese Mixture
• Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each pair of overlapping tortillas, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Step 4: Layer Fillings
• Arrange half of the ham, salami, and mozzarella slices evenly over the cream cheese on each tortilla pair.
• Scatter the roasted red peppers, peperoncini, and fresh basil over the lower two-thirds of the tortillas (closest to you).
Step 5: Roll Tightly
• Starting from the bottom edge (the side with the peppers and basil), tightly roll the tortillas away from you, keeping the roll as firm and even as possible.
• Secure the seam with several toothpicks spaced along the length of the roll.
Step 6: Chill and Slice
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
• When ready to serve, remove toothpicks and slice each roll into 1-inch thick pieces using a sharp serrated knife.
Step 7: Serve
• Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips:
• Dry Ingredients Well: Ensure peppers and peperoncini are thoroughly drained to prevent soggy tortillas
• Soft Tortillas Work Best: If tortillas are stiff, warm briefly in the microwave between damp paper towels
• Roll Tightly: The firmer you roll, the better the pinwheels will hold their shape
• Sharp Knife Essential: Use a serrated knife and clean between cuts for neat slices
Storage Options:
• Refrigerator: Store unsliced rolls wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 days
• Sliced Pinwheels: Keep in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 24 hours
• Freezing: Not recommended as texture will change upon thawing
Italian Sub Bites are the ultimate party appetizer that brings the beloved flavors of an Italian deli to any gathering. Their beautiful presentation and crowd-pleasing taste make them perfect for everything from game day to elegant cocktail parties.
