Zesty Lemon Basil Salmon Roll-Ups

Craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and elegance? Look no further than these delectable Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls. Delicately sliced salmon fillets envelop a zesty ricotta and fresh basil filling, creating a symphony of citrusy freshness and creamy goodness. Baked over tender asparagus, each roll is a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The magic of these Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls lies in the transformative power of lemon zest, infusing the ricotta with a touch of sunshine that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re reminiscing about a memorable anniversary dinner or simply looking to impress your taste buds, these rolls deliver on both taste and simplicity. Leftovers can be easily refrigerated for later enjoyment, and with a few prep-ahead tips, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the bright flavors of lemon, basil, and salmon in every delicious bite.

Quick Benefits

• Bright and Fresh Flavors: Lemon and basil add a burst of citrusy freshness to the dish, elevating the flavors and making it a delightful meal option.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, these salmon rolls are a great way to make any meal feel special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable with ingredient substitutions like goat cheese or broccolini, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your preferences and what you have on hand.
• Make-ahead Friendly: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, and you can prep the filling and trim the asparagus the night before for easy reheating and serving.

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Lemon Basil Salmon Roll-Ups Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The combination of bright lemon, fragrant basil, and creamy ricotta cheese creates a burst of fresh and zesty flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Impressive yet Simple: Perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight meal, these salmon rolls look impressive but are easy to make, allowing you to elevate your dining experience with minimal effort.
• Versatile Recipe: You can customize this recipe to your liking by swapping ingredients like basil for parsley, ricotta for goat cheese, or asparagus for broccolini, making it adaptable to what you have on hand.
• Leftover-Friendly: The dish keeps well in the fridge for up to two days, and reheating it gently in the oven maintains the moistness of the salmon, offering a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers.
• Elegant Presentation: The rolled salmon fillets, placed seam-side down on a bed of asparagus, hold their shape beautifully while baking, resulting in an elegant and visually appealing dish.
• Classic and Timeless Pairing: The classic pairing of salmon and lemon pays homage to Mediterranean and Nordic culinary traditions, ensuring a harmonious and flavorful combination that is tried and true.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the rolls in advance, refrigerate them, and bake them just before serving, allowing you to plan and prep ahead for a stress-free dining experience.
• Suits Various Occasions: Whether served with herbed rice for a cozy dinner, on sourdough toast for brunch, or chilled for a picnic, these lemon basil salmon rolls are versatile and suitable for various occasions and settings.

Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Basil Salmon Roll-Ups

Fish

• 4 salmon fillets, sliced thin lengthwise for rolling

Dairy

• 120 ml ricotta cheese or cream cheese

Herbs & Vegetables

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, woody ends trimmed
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Citrus

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Pantry

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Pro Tips for Zesty Lemon Basil Salmon Roll-Ups

For optimal results, when rolling the salmon fillets with the ricotta filling, make sure to roll them tightly to ensure they hold their shape as they cook. Placing them seam-side down on the asparagus will also help maintain their form during baking.

Consider using cream cheese as a substitute for ricotta for a richer and creamier filling. This swap will provide a similar texture and flavor profile while still complementing the lemon and basil elements of the dish.

Trimming the woody ends of the asparagus is crucial for ensuring tenderness and even roasting. This simple step will enhance the overall texture of the dish and create a more enjoyable dining experience.

How to Make Zesty Lemon Basil Salmon Roll-Ups

Step 1: Prepare Asparagus

Preheat oven to 190°C. Place trimmed asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Mix Cheese Filling

Combine ricotta or cream cheese with lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well mixed.

Step 3: Fill and Roll Salmon

Place each salmon fillet flat, spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture down the center, then roll up the fillet.

Step 4: Arrange and Dress Rolls

Arrange the salmon rolls on top of the asparagus on the baking sheet with the seam-side down. Drizzle with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a little more olive oil.

Step 5: Oven Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and lightly golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil and lemon wedges.

Storage Tips

Once the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls are prepared and cooked, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. It is recommended to cover them well to maintain freshness. When reheating, it is best to do so gently in the oven at a low temperature to prevent the salmon from drying out and to retain its moisture.

For those looking to prep ahead, the filling can be made and the asparagus trimmed the night before to save time. This allows for quicker assembly and baking when ready to serve. Additionally, if fresh basil is not available, parsley can be used as a substitute, and goat cheese can replace ricotta or cream cheese for a tangy twist. By following these storage and preparation tips, you can enjoy the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls at their best even after they have been cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh basil is not available, chopped parsley can be used as a substitute to provide a milder herb flavor in the filling. Goat cheese can be a tangy replacement for ricotta or cream cheese, offering a different creamy and flavorful element to the dish.

For a variation in vegetables, broccolini or green beans can be used instead of asparagus. These alternatives will still provide a delicious and complementary side to the lemon basil salmon rolls, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the dish.

By trimming the woody ends of the asparagus, you ensure tenderness and even roasting during cooking, creating a more enjoyable eating experience. This step is crucial for maintaining the desired texture of the vegetables and achieving a well-balanced dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, serve these Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls drizzled with a light lemon-butter sauce and garnished with fresh basil leaves. The vibrant colors and flavors will make any dinner feel like a special occasion.

To elevate the brunch experience, try serving the salmon rolls on a platter with a side of poached eggs and toasted sourdough. The combination of creamy ricotta filling, citrusy salmon, and runny egg yolk is a decadent treat that will impress your guests and make for a memorable meal.

FAQs for Zesty Lemon Basil Salmon Roll-Ups

Can I use cream cheese instead of ricotta cheese in this recipe?

Cream cheese works well as a substitute, providing a similarly creamy texture and rich flavor to the filling.

Why is it important to trim the woody ends of the asparagus?

Trimming the woody ends ensures tenderness and even roasting, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

How do I know when the salmon rolls are fully cooked?

The salmon will appear opaque and flake easily with a fork when done. The top should be lightly golden after baking.

Can I assemble the salmon rolls in advance?

You can assemble the rolls in advance, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving to retain freshness and flavor.

Conclusion

I hope you give these Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls a try soon. They are a delightful way to elevate your dinner without much effort. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant basil, and creamy ricotta is simply irresistible.

Whether you are preparing a special meal for a loved one or simply treating yourself to a flavorful dish, these salmon rolls are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe to your liking by trying different herbs or cheeses.

Remember, cooking should be a joyful experience, and these Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls are a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and let the delicious aroma of lemon and basil fill your kitchen!