Summer heat got you dreading the kitchen? Let me introduce you to my no-cook salvation that’s become my midday ritual. These roast beef rolls with horseradish cream deliver all the protein power you need without breaking a sweat—or the carb bank. They’re elegantly simple yet deliver knockout flavor that makes conventional sandwiches seem downright pedestrian.
When temperatures soar into the “don’t touch that oven” territory, these cool, protein-packed rolls become my secret weapon. The marriage of tender roast beef, peppery arugula, and that creamy horseradish sauce that delivers just enough kick to wake up your taste buds without setting them ablaze—chef’s kiss. It’s sophisticated adult eating that requires minimal effort, which frankly, is my favorite kind of culinary equation.
The Lunch Rebellion
I stumbled upon this recipe during what I fondly call my “lunch rebellion”—that period where I refused to eat another sad desk salad or cave to overpriced delivery. Growing up with a Midwestern mother who believed every proper sandwich required bread the thickness of a small novel, the idea of meat AS the wrapper felt almost sacrilegious. But here we are, rolling up deliciousness with nary a carb in sight, and I haven’t looked back since.
Why This Recipe Works
Let’s appreciate the brilliant simplicity here. These rolls require zero cooking, assemble in minutes, and can be prepped ahead for grab-and-go convenience. They deliver that perfect balance of protein and fat that keeps you satisfied without the carb-induced afternoon slump. The horseradish cream provides complex flavor without complexity in preparation—a culinary contradiction I fully endorse.
Perhaps most importantly, these rolls prove that keto eating doesn’t mean sacrificing sophistication or settling for boring food. They’re equally at home as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party or packed in your lunch bag. Versatility, thy name is beef roll.
Ingredients
For the Horseradish Cream:
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise (full-fat)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Rolls:
- 12 slices thinly sliced deli roast beef (approximately 12 oz, choose high-quality)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, thinly sliced
- 12 thin cucumber slices
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Let’s assemble these beautiful protein parcels:
In a small bowl, combine all ingredients for the horseradish cream, mixing until smooth and well integrated. Taste and adjust the horseradish amount according to your preference for heat. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the rolls.
Lay the roast beef slices flat on your work surface. Pat them gently with paper towels if they seem overly moist.
Spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese on each slice of roast beef.
Add a small amount of horseradish cream on top of the cream cheese.
Layer each slice with a few arugula leaves, 2-3 thin slices of red onion, a slice of avocado, and a cucumber slice.
Sprinkle with fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
Starting from one end, carefully roll up each slice of roast beef, ensuring the fillings stay tucked inside.
Secure each roll with a toothpick if needed for serving.
Arrange on a serving platter with additional horseradish cream for dipping, or pack individually for meal prep.
Tips and Variations
Make-Ahead Magic: These rolls can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap them individually in parchment paper to keep them fresh and prevent them from sticking together.
Protein Swaps: Not a beef fan? Turkey, chicken, or even smoked salmon work beautifully as alternatives.
Veg It Up: Experiment with different low-carb veggies—bell peppers, radishes, or microgreens all make excellent additions.
Spice Adjustments: Find the horseradish too intense? Scale back and add a touch more sour cream for balance. Craving more heat? A dash of cayenne in the cream will light things up.
Serving Suggestion: For an elegant appetizer presentation, slice each roll into pinwheels and arrange them on a platter with extra sauce and lemon wedges.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 3 Rolls)
- Calories: 420
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
The Last Bite
These roast beef rolls have saved countless lunch hours and cocktail parties at my house, and I suspect they’ll do the same for you. They prove that keto eating can be sophisticated, satisfying, and seriously simple.
Have you tried making these? I’d love to hear your variations or serving suggestions in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more no-cook keto options for the warmer months, check out my collection of summer-friendly recipes that keep your kitchen cool and your macros on point.
Stay cool, stay keto, and roll with it.
