Easy Tuna Pesto Pinwheel Appetizers

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Tuna pesto pinwheels are my go-to snack for busy days because they’re tasty, incredibly simple, and actually pretty nutritious. Combining tuna with pesto creates this deliciously creamy yet zesty filling that honestly tastes way more sophisticated than the minimal effort it requires.

I love recipes like this because they’re versatile enough to be an easy lunch, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a quick appetizer when unexpected guests pop in. Plus, they travel beautifully, making them perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or even road trips.

If you want to add a bit more richness, shredded cheese is a fantastic addition, melting slightly into the pesto-tuna mix as it chills, but it’s totally optional—these pinwheels taste amazing either way.

The best part? You can prepare them in advance, stash them in the fridge, and simply slice and serve whenever hunger strikes. Once you try these pesto tuna pinwheels, you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of this easy combo sooner!

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Recipe Tips

Here are my top tips for perfect tuna pinwheels every time:

• Make sure to spread your filling evenly and thinly. Too much filling makes it tricky to roll and slice cleanly.
• Let your rolls chill thoroughly. Two hours in the fridge ensures they hold their shape, giving perfect, neat slices.
• Always slice with a sharp knife. Clean, crisp cuts ensure your pinwheels look as great as they taste!

Ingredients:

• 1 can tuna (about 5 oz / 140g), drained
• 2 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Shredded cheese (optional, about ¼ cup or to taste)
• 2 large wrap tortillas (around 10-inch diameter each)

Alternative Ingredients:

No pesto on hand? No problem! You can use hummus, avocado mash, tapenade, or even a creamy salad dressing as delicious alternatives.

If you’re dairy-free or simply don’t want cheese, these pinwheels still taste fantastic without it—but if you’d like a creamy texture without dairy, try adding a spoonful of mashed avocado or vegan cream cheese.

Gluten-free? Easily swap regular tortillas for gluten-free or veggie wraps. Want extra flavor or crunch? Add chopped fresh veggies like cucumber, spinach, bell peppers, or shredded carrots—each brings its unique freshness and texture to the pinwheels.

Step 1: Mix Tuna and Pesto

Drain your tuna and place it in a bowl. Add pesto and mix thoroughly until combined into a creamy, flavorful filling.

Step 2: Add Cheese (Optional)

If using shredded cheese, gently mix it into the tuna and pesto filling. Adjust to taste.

Step 3: Spread onto Tortillas

Lay tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the pesto-tuna mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a small gap around the edges.

Step 4: Roll Tortillas

Carefully and tightly roll each tortilla into a log. Wrap each roll securely in plastic wrap.

Step 5: Chill Rolls

Place wrapped rolls into the fridge and chill for at least two hours. Chilling helps set the shape, making slicing easier and neater.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, unwrap the rolls and slice them into neat pinwheels. Serve immediately or pack for lunches or snacks later.

How to Conserve the Recipe

These tuna pesto pinwheels store beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep. Wrap leftover pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re best served chilled or at room temperature.

You can definitely freeze them as well. Make sure to let them thaw in the fridge the night before though!

Different Ways to Serve the Dish

Tuna pesto pinwheels are wonderfully versatile and suited to various occasions. Serve them as appetizers for parties or gatherings—guests love these bite-sized, flavorful snacks. They’re perfect finger foods, making them a great addition to buffets or casual celebrations. Packing lunch for yourself or your kids?

Slice pinwheels for easy lunchbox meals, paired with fresh fruit or veggies. They’re also fantastic as quick, nutritious snacks during busy afternoons or as on-the-go breakfasts when you’re rushing out the door. For a more substantial meal, pair these pinwheels with a bowl of soup or a fresh salad.

They’re ideal for picnics or day trips because they hold up well when wrapped and chilled, making outdoor dining easy and mess-free. However you choose to serve them, tuna pesto pinwheels are always a delicious, convenient choice—I promise you’ll keep coming back to this simple, tasty recipe again and again!