Ribbon Dancer Smoked Turkey Rolls (Print View)

Delightful turkey rolls wrapped with thin vegetable ribbons for a fresh and light bite.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large carrots, peeled
02 - 1 large cucumber, ends trimmed

→ Meats

03 - 8 slices smoked turkey breast

→ Dairy

04 - 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

→ Fresh Herbs

05 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

→ Seasoning

07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Use a vegetable peeler or mandoline to slice carrots and cucumber lengthwise into long, thin ribbons.
02 - Lay smoked turkey slices flat, optionally spreading a thin layer of softened cream cheese, then sprinkle with chives and dill.
03 - Roll each turkey slice tightly from one end to form a cylinder.
04 - Wrap a cucumber ribbon and then a carrot ribbon around each turkey roll, securing ends underneath or with toothpicks if necessary.
05 - Arrange the ribbon-wrapped rolls on a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and additional herbs if desired.
06 - Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It looks restaurant-worthy but takes just 20 minutes from start to finish.
  • The ribbons create this satisfying contrast between tender turkey and crisp vegetables that nobody expects.
  • You can prep it an hour ahead, which means less stress when guests arrive.
02 -
  • Thick ribbon slices are forgiving; paper-thin ones tear and frustrate—aim for ribbons that feel substantial when you lift them.
  • If your cream cheese is cold, it tears the turkey instead of spreading—let it sit on the counter for five minutes before you need it.
  • The vegetables release water as they sit, so avoid overstuffing the platter hours ahead unless you want a pool of liquid at the bottom.
03 -
  • Assemble these no more than two hours before serving unless you want them to weep—vegetables release water and make everything soggy.
  • If you're feeding a crowd, prepare the components separately and let guests watch you roll and wrap; it's showier and buys you time.
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