(StatePoint) The holidays are all about spending time with loved ones. With so many big holiday meals to plan and prepare, you may be looking for ways to save time in the kitchen. Luckily, there are plenty of easy strategies and recipes that can help.

The key is to simplify your holiday menu by planning to use some of the same ingredients in your appetizers, main dishes and even breakfast. For example, Pillsbury Crescent Rolls offer a great base for a variety of traditional recipes -- from Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups for brunch, to Pinwheel appetizers in the evening. 

With Pillsbury Crescent Rolls, you can plan ahead and greet guests with warm, inviting appetizers that have a short prep time – like Bacon-Cheddar Pinwheels. So instead of chips and dip this holiday season, try this recipe that’s big on taste, easy on effort and sure to fly off the tray:

Bacon-Cheddar Pinwheels

(Makes 16 pinwheels)

1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury refrigerated crescent dinner rolls or 1can (8 oz) Pillsbury Crescent Recipe Creations refrigerated seamless dough sheet.

2 tablespoons ranch dressing

1/4 cup cooked real bacon pieces or 4 slices bacon, crisply cooked, crumbled

1/2 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (2 oz)

1/4 cup chopped green onions (4 medium)

• Heat oven to 350 degrees F. If using crescent rolls: Unroll dough; separate into 2 long rectangles. Press each into 12x4-inch rectangle, firmly pressing perforations to seal. If using dough sheet: unroll dough; cut lengthwise into 2 long rectangles. Press each into 12x4-inch rectangle.

• Spread dressing over each rectangle to edges. Sprinkle each with bacon, cheddar cheese and onions. Starting with one short side, roll up each rectangle; press edge to seal. With a serrated knife, cut each roll into 8 slices; place cut side down on ungreased cookie sheet.

• Bake 12 to 17 minutes or until edges are deep golden brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet. Serve warm.

Save time and please the crowd with the simple addition of appetizers like Bacon-Cheddar Pinwheels to your menu this year. More holiday and everyday recipes can be found at www.Pillsbury.com.

Nothing is more welcoming than having delicious foods baking in the oven. Just remember, truly delicious food can be quick and easy to prepare, giving you more time to spend with your family and guests.

*****