The Best Roll-Up Appetizers

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Roll-up appetizers make fabulous finger foods, look attractive on a platter and are generally simple to make. There is a seemingly unlimited number of recipes available for roll-up appetizers, which shows just how versatile and successful they are. Whether using classic flavors or showcasing unique ingredients, you can't go wrong with the best roll-up appetizers.

Asparagus & Prosciutto Roll-Ups

These elegant appetizers couldn't be easier to prepare. Trim asparagus, then add to boiling water for a few minutes until crisp-tender. Remove from water and cool in an ice bath. Dry with paper towels. Roll a piece of prosciutto around each stalk until fully covered except for the tip. Heat a grill pan over medium-high and brush with oil. Briefly grill each stalk, browning all sides. These stalks look beautiful on a platter garnished with lemon wedges.

Salmon & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups

Layer cream cheese, smoked salmon, fresh chives and dill in a tortilla or piece of flatbread. Roll tightly into a cylinder. Slice into pinwheels, securing each with a toothpick if necessary. These roll-ups are equally at home at a brunch, dinner or cocktail party. Substitute any smoked fish for a different flavor.

Mediterranean Roll-Ups

Spread a tortilla or flatbread with hummus. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. Then add roasted red pepper, chopped cucumber, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, spinach or diced red onion. Squeeze half of a lemon over the whole thing, then wrap tightly and slice into pinwheels. A side of balsamic vinaigrette dressing makes a tasty dipping sauce.

BLTA Roll-Ups

Crisp bacon, lettuce, chopped tomato and sliced avocado layered over a tortilla or flatbread smeared with mayonnaise makes a delicious roll-up appetizer. For a flavor twist, stir in some minced garlic, dried herbs like oregano and thyme or paprika to the mayonnaise before spreading. Cheddar or jack cheese also make good additions. Roll up, slice into pinwheels and serve.

Sausage Pastry Roll-Ups

For a simple appetizer that can be served hot or at room temperature, start with your favorite gourmet pre-cooked sausage and a sheet of pre-made puff pastry, thawed and rolled thin. Cut smaller sheets to fit around each sausage and brush pastry with an egg wash to seal the ends and to help it brown. Cook according to the pastry package directions until the pastry is puffed and golden. Serve whole or sliced into bite-sized pieces.

Fig Gorgonzola Roll-Ups

These sumptuous Italian-inspired roll-ups are sweet and savory. Thinly roll out a sheet of pre-made puff pastry and cover it with a generous layer of fig jam or preserves. Crumble Gorgonzola cheese over the jam. Roll the pastry up into a tight cylinder, then slice into pinwheels. Place pinwheels on a greased baking sheet, brush with egg wash and cook according to pastry package directions until pastry is golden-brown and cheese is melted.