Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls

Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls

Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls is a vibrant dish that will captivate your senses and elevate your dining experience. These succulent rolls feature tender salmon fillets enveloping a creamy ricotta and fresh basil filling, all harmoniously complemented by the brightness of lemon. With a touch of asparagus for crunch and a rich, savory sauce, this recipe beckons you to the table, promising comfort and delight with each bite. It’s an easy, step-by-step recipe perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to impressing guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls for several reasons. First, it requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous guests. The combination of fresh ingredients delivers an explosion of flavor, keeping everyone coming back for more. Additionally, this dish is a crowd-pleaser—appealing to both adults and children alike. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, you’ll appreciate how straightforward and satisfying this recipe is.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (5 oz each), skinless: These tender, flaky fillets are the heart of the dish, offering a rich taste and a lovely pink hue.
• 1/2 lb asparagus, trimmed: Fresh asparagus adds a delightful crunch and a subtle, earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy, smooth, and slightly sweet, ricotta provides a luscious base for the filling.
• 2 tsp lemon zest: The bright, citrusy aroma and flavor enhance the salmon, creating a fresh and zesty profile.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate all the ingredients.
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped: Aromatic and slightly peppery, fresh basil lends a garden-fresh note to the dish.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Rich and savory, Parmesan adds depth and a hint of nuttiness.
• 1 tbsp butter: For an indulgent touch in the sauce, butter creates a silky texture.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: This ingredient forms the base of the sauce, adding flavor and moisture.
• 2 tsp cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, ensuring each drizzle clings perfectly to the rolls.
• 2 tsp water: Mixed with cornstarch to create a smooth slurry.
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: A burst of acidity that brightens the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F, setting the stage for perfectly baked salmon rolls.

2. Season the Salmon: Lightly season the skinless salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides, preparing them for flavor infusion.

3. Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you have a creamy, aromatic filling.

4. Assemble the Rolls: Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture atop each salmon fillet. Lay a few asparagus spears across the center of the filling, then roll the fillet tightly from one end to the other.

5. Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled fillets seam-side down on a greased baking sheet to ensure they hold together during cooking.

6. Bake: Slide the tray into the oven and bake the rolls for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.

7. Make the Sauce: While the rolls are baking, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Stir in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the pan. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens.

8. Serve: Once the salmon rolls are perfectly baked, drizzle the creamy sauce over them before serving. Enjoy the delightful medley of flavors!

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch, consider marinating the salmon fillets for about 30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of herbs before rolling.
• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more chicken broth or cornstarch based on your preference.
• If you enjoy a hint of spice, try adding red pepper flakes to the ricotta mix.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls are versatile and pair beautifully with a side of wild rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. A refreshing green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors elegantly. For a special touch, serve with a lightly chilled glass of sparkling water infused with citrus slices. This meal is ideal for gatherings, Sunday brunch, or as a healthy weeknight dinner that feels luxurious.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls is approximately 350 calories, providing a well-balanced meal rich in protein and healthy fats. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, especially from the asparagus and lemon, making it a wholesome choice. Remember to balance your plate with veggies or a fruit salad for added nutrients!

Storing Tips & Variations

To store leftovers, allow the salmon rolls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave—be mindful not to overcook them during reheating.

For variations, consider using different vegetables based on what you have on hand or even trying a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese, for a unique flavor. Additionally, swapping in other fresh herbs can provide a different aromatic experience—think dill or parsley for a new twist!

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls that can turn an ordinary meal into a delightful culinary experience. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also impresses family and friends alike. I encourage you to try making these charming rolls and share your thoughts—they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets! Just ensure they are completely thawed before cooking to ensure even baking.

2. What other fillings can I use in the salmon rolls?

Feel free to experiment with various fillings! Cream cheese, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes would make delicious alternatives.

3. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F.

4. Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before you’re ready to serve.

5. How can I make this recipe low-carb?

To make it low-carb, skip the ricotta and instead simply season the salmon and asparagus. You can add a lemon-herb butter sauce for flavor enhancement.

Print Recipe

Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls

These delightful Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls feature flaky salmon fillets wrapped around a creamy ricotta and fresh basil filling, complemented by a zesty lemon sauce and crunchy asparagus.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time20 minutes mins

Total Time35 minutes mins

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Basil Recipes, Easy Salmon, Healthy Dinner, Lemon Recipes, Salmon Rolls

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 fillets salmon fillets (5 oz each), skinless Tender, flaky fillets are the heart of the dish.
• 1/2 lb asparagus, trimmed Adds delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese Provides a creamy base for the filling.
• 2 tsp lemon zest Enhances flavor with brightness.
• to taste Salt and pepper Simple seasonings that elevate flavors.
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped Lends a garden-fresh note.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds richness and nuttiness.
• 1 tbsp butter Creates a silky sauce texture.

Sauce Ingredients

• 1/2 cup chicken broth Forms the sauce base.
• 2 tsp cornstarch Used to thicken the sauce.
• 2 tsp water Mixed with cornstarch to make a slurry.
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice Brightens sauce flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 425°F.
• Lightly season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
• Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture on each salmon fillet, and lay a few asparagus spears across the center.
• Roll the fillet tightly from one end to the other and place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.

Cooking

• Bake the salmon rolls for 15 to 20 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
• While baking, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Stir in chicken broth and lemon juice.
• Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then add it to the pan and stir until the sauce thickens (about 3 to 5 minutes).

Serving

• Drizzle the creamy sauce over the baked salmon rolls before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider marinating the salmon in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before rolling. Adjust sauce thickness by adding more broth or cornstarch. For a bit of spice, red pepper flakes can be added to the ricotta.