Mexican-inspired cuisine is a favorite for many, known for its vibrant flavors and easy-to-prepare dishes. If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer that embodies these qualities, look no further than Mexican pinwheels, also known as tortilla roll-ups. These delightful bites are not only incredibly simple to make, even easier than many appetizer recipes, but they are also bursting with delicious Mexican flavors that everyone will love.
Mexican Pinwheels – Mexican Roll Ups with Black Beans – Vegetarian, Cold Mexican Appetizer
These Mexican pinwheels are inspired by the love of Mexican food, perfect for any occasion, from a casual get-together to a festive Cinco de Mayo celebration. The beauty of Mexican cuisine lies in its simplicity and bold flavors, often relying on fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation methods. This recipe is no exception, making it a go-to choice for busy hosts and anyone who appreciates delicious, fuss-free appetizers.
What are Mexican Pinwheel Hors D’oeuvres?
When you search for Mexican pinwheels online, you’ll discover a wide array of filling options. This particular tortilla roll-up recipe features a wonderfully simple yet flavorful filling, drawing inspiration from the classic “tostadas” served at Joe T. Garcia’s in Ft. Worth, known for its authentic Tex-Mex cuisine.
The filling is a vibrant mix of whole black beans, offering a satisfying texture and visual appeal, combined with creamy yogurt or sour cream and a blend of zesty seasonings. Unlike mashed beans, whole black beans provide a more robust and interesting bite.
Mexican Pinwheels – Mexican Roll Ups with Black Beans – Vegetarian, Cold Mexican Appetizer
The assembly is straightforward: spread the flavorful bean mixture onto tortillas, roll them up tightly, and slice them into attractive pinwheel shapes. To elevate these hors d’oeuvres, they are finished with a quick broil to melt the cheese topping, adding a warm, gooey element that enhances the overall taste and presentation. Because who can resist the allure of perfectly melted cheese?
Perfect for Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Potlucks
Planning a Cinco de Mayo celebration or a Mexican-themed potluck? These Mexican pinwheels are an ideal addition to your menu. Whether you’re hosting a large fiesta or simply enjoying a quiet taco night at home, these appetizers are sure to be a hit.
For a complete Cinco de Mayo spread, consider pairing these pinwheels with refreshing drinks and a delightful dessert. A simple yet decadent Mexican Chocolate Cake would be a perfect sweet ending. And for a festive beverage, why not serve some refreshing mango margaritas?
Mexican Roll Ups
When it comes to Mexican potlucks, the challenge is often choosing just one dish to bring. Luckily, these tortilla roll-ups are a fantastic option that travels well and is always popular. They fall into the category of cold Mexican appetizers, making them a convenient choice for gatherings where dishes might be sitting out at room temperature.
Explore More Mexican Appetizer Ideas
While these cold Mexican pinwheels are a star, there’s a whole world of delicious Mexican appetizers to explore. From warm and comforting options to fresh and zesty cold bites, Mexican cuisine offers a diverse range of hors d’oeuvres perfect for any taste.
Warm Mexican Appetizer Recipes
If you’re looking for warm appetizer options to complement your pinwheels, consider recipes that utilize classic Mexican flavors. Many warm Mexican dishes start with a base of homemade fajita seasoning, a versatile blend that adds depth to countless recipes.
For a heartier warm appetizer, a one-pot Mexican Rice Casserole can be a crowd-pleaser. Alternatively, for a fun and shareable option, healthy carnitas nachos are always a hit, especially when using leftover chicken, turkey, or pork.
Mexican Pinwheels – Mexican Roll Ups with Black Beans – Vegetarian, Cold Mexican Appetizer
Cold Mexican Appetizer Recipes
Beyond pinwheels, other cold Mexican appetizers offer a refreshing contrast to richer dishes. Pico de gallo, a classic fresh salsa, remains a hugely popular choice, providing a burst of flavor with its simple combination of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime.
Vegan bean dip, especially when made with homemade Mexican fajita seasoning, is another excellent cold appetizer option, perfect served with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables. And for a light and healthy choice, Mexican fruit cups, seasoned with lime juice, salt, and Tajin, offer a sweet and spicy treat that’s both refreshing and flavorful.
Mexican Pinwheels Appetizer Recipe
These vegetarian Mexican pinwheels are incredibly easy to prepare and are guaranteed to disappear quickly. This cold Mexican appetizer recipe is destined to become a favorite tortilla roll-up for all occasions.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Mexican hors d’oeuvres, appetizers, mexican
Servings: 16 pinwheels
Calories: 44kcal
Author: Luci Petlack
Ingredients
- 1 15 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- ½ teaspoon fresh lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch, burrito-size)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Cilantro leaves for garnish
- Salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your broiler to high.
- In a medium bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, sour cream (or yogurt), sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, lime juice, ground coriander, ground cumin, garlic powder, and fine sea salt. Stir to combine, partially mashing the black beans as you mix to create a slightly chunky texture.
- Spread half of the black bean mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edge. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese over the bean mixture on each tortilla.
- Working one tortilla at a time, tightly roll it up. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side up on a cutting board. Hold it firmly to prevent unfolding and trim off the ends where there is no filling.
- Insert 8 toothpicks evenly spaced along the length of the tortilla roll, about ¾ to 1 inch apart, to secure it. Use a sharp knife to cut the tortilla into slices between each toothpick, creating pinwheels.
- Arrange all pinwheels cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the pinwheels.
- Broil for approximately 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just beginning to brown.
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro leaves for garnish. Serve warm, optionally with salsa on the side for dipping.
Recipe Notes
Enjoy these delicious and easy Mexican pinwheel hors d’oeuvres!
Nutrition Information
Calories: 44kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 111mg | Potassium: 18mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 97IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 59mg | Iron: 0.2mg
