Tortilla Beef Swirls

An easy make-ahead appetizer with flour tortillas layered with a creamy green chile spread, thinly sliced roast beef, fresh spinach and pimento. After chilling, the rolls are sliced into colorful bite-size swirls that are perfect for a party tray.

Servings: About 10–12 as an appetizer
Prep Time: About 25 minutes, plus 2–3 hours chilling
Cook Time: None

Ingredients:

• 1 package large flour tortillas
• 2 large packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 can diced green chiles, drained
• 1½ pounds thinly sliced roast beef
• 2 bunches fresh spinach
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pimento, cut into strips

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and diced green chiles until well blended.
2. Lay a tortilla flat on a work surface and spread it evenly with the cream cheese mixture, extending almost to the edges.
3. Arrange a layer of thinly sliced roast beef over the cream cheese.
4. Top with fresh spinach leaves.
5. Sprinkle lightly with garlic powder and freshly ground black pepper.
6. Arrange a few strips of pimento along one edge of the tortilla.
7. Starting at the pimento edge, roll the tortilla up tightly into a cylinder.
8. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling ingredients.
9. Arrange the completed rolls in a flat dish, cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours.
10. When thoroughly chilled, trim the ends if desired and slice each roll crosswise into bite-size swirls.
11. Arrange on a serving platter and serve chilled.

Tip: Chilling the intact rolls before slicing firms the cream cheese and makes it much easier to produce neat, attractive swirls. Use a sharp serrated or very sharp thin-bladed knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

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