Italian Sandwich Roll Ups: Easy Recipe & Perfect Appetizer

Italian Sandwich Roll Ups: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly easy and utterly delicious appetizer that’s about to become your new go-to for parties, potlucks, or even a fun weeknight snack! Forget complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen; these little bites of heaven come together in minutes and disappear even faster.

While the exact origins of rolled sandwiches are a bit hazy, the concept of layering flavorful ingredients and creating bite-sized delights has been around for ages. Think of it as a deconstructed Italian sandwich, reimagined for modern convenience and maximum flavor. The beauty of these Italian Sandwich Roll Ups lies in their simplicity and adaptability. You can customize the fillings to your heart’s content, using your favorite Italian deli meats, cheeses, and spreads.

But why are these roll-ups so irresistible? It’s a combination of factors! The soft, pillowy bread provides the perfect canvas for the savory meats and cheeses. The creamy spread adds a touch of richness, while the fresh herbs and vegetables provide a burst of freshness. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to eat, making them perfect for mingling and snacking. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, so you can be sure your guests will be raving about them long after the last roll-up is gone. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (17.3 ounce) package puff pastry sheets, thawed
• 1/2 cup pesto
• 8 ounces thinly sliced provolone cheese
• 8 ounces thinly sliced salami
• 4 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Italian seasoning, for sprinkling

Preparing the Filling and Rolling

1. Prepare your workspace: Lightly flour a clean, flat surface. This will prevent the puff pastry from sticking as you work with it. Trust me, a little flour goes a long way!
2. Unfold the puff pastry: Gently unfold one sheet of puff pastry onto the floured surface. If the pastry is sticking to itself, carefully peel it apart. Be patient; you don’t want to tear it.
3. Spread the pesto: Using a spatula or spoon, evenly spread half of the pesto over the entire surface of the puff pastry sheet. Make sure to get right to the edges! The pesto acts as a delicious glue and adds a ton of flavor.
4. Layer the provolone: Arrange half of the provolone cheese slices over the pesto layer, covering as much of the surface as possible. Overlap the slices slightly to ensure every bite has cheesy goodness.
5. Add the salami: Next, layer half of the salami slices over the provolone. Again, overlap the slices for maximum salami coverage. We want these roll-ups to be packed with flavor!
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan: Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese evenly over the salami layer. The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
7. Repeat with the second sheet: Repeat steps 2 through 6 with the second sheet of puff pastry and the remaining pesto, provolone, salami, and Parmesan cheese.
8. Rolling the first sheet: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the first puff pastry sheet into a log. Try to keep the roll as tight as possible to prevent gaps and ensure even cooking.
9. Rolling the second sheet: Repeat the rolling process with the second puff pastry sheet.
10. Sealing the rolls: Gently pinch the seam of each roll to seal it closed. This will prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.

Chilling and Slicing

1. Wrap the rolls: Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents them from drying out in the refrigerator.
2. Chill the rolls: Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Chilling the rolls makes them easier to slice and helps the puff pastry rise properly in the oven. I usually chill them for an hour.
3. Preheat the oven: While the rolls are chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the center position.
4. Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the roll-ups from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
5. Slice the rolls: Remove the chilled rolls from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice each roll into 1-inch thick slices. You should get about 12-16 slices from each roll.
6. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the sliced roll-ups on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side up, leaving a little space between each one. This allows for even baking and browning.

Baking and Finishing

1. Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. This will give the roll-ups a beautiful golden-brown color.
2. Brush with egg wash: Brush the top of each roll-up with the egg wash. Be sure to get all the nooks and crannies!
3. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning: Sprinkle the tops of the roll-ups with Italian seasoning. This adds a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the roll-ups are golden brown and the puff pastry is fully cooked. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
5. Cool slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the roll-ups cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from sticking to the baking sheet.
6. Serve: Serve the Italian Sandwich Roll-Ups warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips and Variations

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack would be delicious.
• Meat Variations: You can also use different types of meat, such as ham, turkey, or roast beef.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a little heat.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freezing: These roll-ups can also be frozen. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve these roll-ups with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, pesto, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli.

Serving Suggestions

These Italian Sandwich Roll-Ups are perfect for:

• Appetizers
• Party snacks
• Lunchboxes
• Game day gatherings
• Potlucks
• A quick and easy weeknight meal

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Italian Sandwich Roll-Ups as much as I do! They are a crowd-pleaser and are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and flavors to create your own unique version. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another snack; these Italian Sandwich Roll Ups are a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Seriously, from the first bite of the savory meats and cheeses nestled in that soft, warm bread, you’ll understand why I’m so excited about this recipe. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a must-try for your next party, potluck, or even just a fun weeknight dinner.

But what truly sets these roll ups apart is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different fillings to create your own signature version. For a spicier kick, add some pepperoncini or a dash of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. If you’re a vegetarian, swap out the meats for roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. A smear of pesto would also be divine! And for those who love a little sweetness, a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking adds a touch of sophistication.

Serving suggestions? Oh, the possibilities are endless! These roll ups are fantastic served warm, straight from the oven, but they’re also delicious at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics or lunchboxes. I love to serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a more substantial appetizer spread, pair them with olives, artichoke hearts, and a selection of cheeses.

And don’t forget about breakfast! These Italian Sandwich Roll Ups are surprisingly satisfying as a grab-and-go breakfast option. Just prepare them the night before, store them in the refrigerator, and pop them in the microwave for a quick and easy morning meal.

I’ve made these roll ups countless times, and each time, they disappear in minutes. They’re the perfect solution when you need a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer or snack that everyone will love. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and the fact that they’re so easy to customize makes them a winner in my book.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of these incredible Italian Sandwich Roll Ups. I promise, you won’t be disappointed.

Ready to give it a try? I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Did you try any variations? What were your favorite fillings? Did you serve them with a particular dipping sauce? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I love to see how you make this recipe your own. Let’s spread the love for these amazing Italian Sandwich Roll Ups!