Fresh, zesty, flaky Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls – a light, flavorful, elegant appetizer or lunch perfect for spring, summer, or entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a handful of well-chosen ingredients can totally transform your meal. Each one in this recipe has a special role—think color, zing, creaminess, and freshness! Together, they make Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls shine every single time.
- Salmon fillets: Thinly sliced, they make the perfect delicate wrap and cook up tender and juicy.
- Lemon zest and juice: Adds tangy freshness that wakes up the whole dish and pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Ricotta or cream cheese: Creates a rich, creamy base inside each roll, making every bite luscious.
- Fresh basil: Brings a punch of herbal brightness and a gorgeous pop of green.
- Garlic: Gives subtle depth and warmth, tying all the flavors together.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing flavors and uplifting the main ingredients.
- Olive oil or melted butter: Brushed on top, this locks in moisture and adds a golden finish.
- Asparagus: Offers crunch and earthiness, plus a stunning bright green center to every roll.
How to Make Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls
Step 1: Blanch the Asparagus
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil—simple but absolutely worth it for perfectly tender asparagus. Blanch your asparagus spears for just two minutes, then plunge them into ice water to seal in that vibrant color and crisp-tender snap. This quick step ensures your rolls don’t turn soggy later on.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Basil Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, stir together the ricotta or cream cheese, lemon zest and juice, chopped basil, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. This quick mix becomes a tangy, herby spread with creamy undertones—basically, the heart of every roll. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the lemon or basil to match your vibe!
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Lay out your salmon slices on a clean work surface. Spread each with a generous layer of lemon basil cheese mixture. Place a blanched asparagus spear at one end, then roll it up tightly (but gently). You’ll see gorgeous green peeking out the ends—so pretty for serving! Repeat with the remaining salmon, cheese, and asparagus.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Arrange the rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Brush each with melted butter or olive oil; this adds richness and helps the salmon bake to a beautiful finish. Pop them into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the salmon turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Out of the oven, give your Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls a scatter of fresh basil leaves for that final green flourish. These taste fantastic both warm and chilled, so you have flexibility depending on the occasion. Serve immediately, and watch your guests light up!
How to Serve Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls
Garnishes
Basil leaves are classic for a reason—their beautiful aroma and bright color truly bring out the freshness in every bite of Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls. For extra pizzazz, you can also add a little extra lemon zest over the top or a few shavings of Parmesan for a salty, nutty hit. Microgreens or edible flowers can also add an elegant restaurant touch if you’re looking to impress.
Side Dishes
If you’re turning Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls into a main dish, light sides are always a win! Think a simply dressed arugula salad, roasted baby potatoes, or even a chilled cucumber and dill salad to echo the herbaceous flavors. Crusty bread on the side is great for scooping up any extra cheese and lemony juices on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For cocktail parties, arrange the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls on a platter and skewer them with toothpicks for easy, elegant finger food. You can also slice each roll into cute, sushi-style rounds for a fun twist. Nestle the rolls on a bed of leafy greens or arrange alongside colorful roasted veggies for a showstopping, Instagram-worthy centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to two days. Since they’re delicious chilled or gently rewarmed, you have some built-in flexibility for meal prep or a quick workday lunch.
Freezing
While the fresh herbs and creamy cheese are best enjoyed soon after baking, you can freeze baked Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls if needed. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic to prevent freezer burn, and place them together in a freezer-safe container. For best flavor, use within one month, and thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until just heated through, about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—gentle reheating will protect that delicate salmon texture. If chilled, they’re equally delicious straight from the refrigerator!
FAQs
Can I use smoked salmon instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Smoked salmon turns Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls into a no-cook appetizer. Skip the baking; simply assemble the rolls and chill until ready to serve. The flavor will be smokier and just as delicious.
What other herbs can I use instead of basil?
Fresh dill, parsley, or even tarragon all play beautifully with salmon. You can experiment to match what’s growing in your garden, but basil keeps things light and summery.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes, you can assemble Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls up to a day in advance. Just cover tightly in the refrigerator and bake right before your guests arrive. This way, they’re fresh but you’re stress-free!
Is cream cheese better than ricotta in this recipe?
Both cheeses work wonderfully! Ricotta offers a slightly lighter, fluffier texture, while cream cheese gives more richness and tang. Choose what suits your taste or even mix the two for a balanced filling.
How do I slice the salmon for rolling?
Ask your fishmonger to slice fillets lengthwise into thin, even sheets, or do it yourself at home with a sharp knife. The thinner the slice, the easier and more delicate your Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls will be.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that feels both impressive and refreshingly simple, do yourself a favor and try Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls. The natural flavors do all the work for you, and each bite brings a gentle reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. Don’t forget to share and savor every roll—the smiles around your table will say it all.
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Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 27 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Fresh, zesty, flaky Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls – a light, flavorful, elegant appetizer or lunch perfect for spring, summer, or entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Rolls
- 4 skinless salmon fillets, sliced thin lengthwise for rolling
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
For the Filling
- ½ cup ricotta or cream cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Baking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Blanch the asparagus: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the trimmed asparagus. Cook for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta or cream cheese with lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the salmon rolls: Lay each salmon fillet slice flat. Spread an even layer of the cheese mixture over the surface of the salmon. Place an asparagus spear at one end and roll up tightly to encase the asparagus and filling.
- Brush and arrange: Gently brush each rolled salmon piece with olive oil or melted butter. Place the rolls seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the salmon rolls for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and opaque.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the salmon rolls cool slightly. Garnish with additional fresh basil and serve warm, or refrigerate and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- You can substitute the ricotta with cream cheese for a richer filling.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to the cheese mixture.
- The salmon rolls can be made ahead and served chilled for a party or brunch.
- Choose thin, uniform asparagus stalks for easy rolling and even cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Contemporary, Mediterranean-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg