If you are looking for a vibrant, elegant dish that brings a burst of freshness to your dinner table, the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe is your new go-to. These salmon rolls are delicately wrapped around tender asparagus and a creamy, herb-infused ricotta filling that highlights the bright flavors of lemon and fresh basil. The perfect balance of rich, tangy, and herby notes makes this recipe not just a meal but a celebration of springtime ingredients dressed up in a simple yet impressive way. Whether for a casual weeknight or a special occasion, these rolls will wow your taste buds and your guests alike.

Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe plays a crucial role, creating a harmony of taste, texture, and color that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. Each item is straightforward but essential for achieving that perfect balance between creamy, fresh, and savory.

Salmon fillets: Fresh fillets, skin removed for easy rolling and even cooking.
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors.
Ricotta cheese: Provides a smooth and creamy base that holds the filling together with a mild richness.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth to the cheese mixture.
Fresh basil: Finely chopped to infuse a fragrant, peppery herbal note throughout.
Lemon zest: Brightens the filling with fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
Fresh asparagus spears: Crisp and tender, these give the rolls a wonderful pop of color and crunch.
Unsalted butter: Used to create the luscious lemon sauce that finishes the dish.
Chicken or vegetable broth: Adds a savory layer to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the lemon.
Fresh lemon juice: Essential for that sharp, refreshing tang in the sauce.
Cornstarch slurry: Thickens the sauce into a silky glaze that perfectly coats the salmon rolls.

How to Make Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Assemble the Salmon Rolls

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly greasing a baking sheet to ensure the rolls do not stick. Lay the salmon fillets on a clean surface and season both sides lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper—this simple seasoning will let the salmon’s natural flavor shine through.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, finely grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, and freshly grated lemon zest. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper and mix until the mixture is creamy and well blended. This filling is the star ingredient that makes these salmon rolls irresistibly moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Spread and Roll

Evenly spread the ricotta mixture over each salmon fillet. Then, lay 2–3 fresh asparagus spears across the center of each fillet. Carefully roll the salmon around the asparagus and filling, making sure to roll tightly so the rolls hold their shape during baking. Place the rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet, ready to go into the oven.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Pop the rolls into the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has turned beautifully opaque. This stage creates a perfectly cooked salmon that’s tender and slightly juicy inside.

Step 5: Craft the Lemon Butter Sauce

While the rolls bake, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, then warm the mixture gently. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens into a silky glaze, which takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This sauce brings a tangy, buttery finish that complements the rolls wonderfully.

Step 6: Serve

Once the rolls come out of the oven, arrange them on a serving platter and generously drizzle the warm lemon sauce over each roll. This final touch adds moisture and a bright flavor that ties the whole dish together beautifully.

How to Serve Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh basil or a few lemon zest curls adds a touch of elegance and extra freshness as a garnish. Garnishing with microgreens or thinly sliced radishes can also introduce a subtle crunch and vibrant color, taking the presentation up a notch.

Side Dishes

Pair your Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe with light, crisp sides like a fresh green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette or some garlic roasted baby potatoes. Steamed jasmine rice or herb-infused quinoa also works beautifully, allowing the salmon rolls to take center stage on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress at your next dinner party, serve the rolls sliced into bite-sized pinwheels on a large platter with the lemon sauce drizzled artfully. Alternatively, arrange entire rolls individually on elegant plates with a spoonful of sauce beside them and a delicate salad on the side for a restaurant-style experience at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 2 days, making them a convenient choice for next-day meals or quick lunches.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for these salmon rolls as the texture of the ricotta filling and the delicate salmon can be compromised. To keep the flavors and textures at their best, enjoy them fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the rolls in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 10–15 minutes, covered with foil to keep them moist. Reheat the lemon sauce separately on the stove and drizzle over just before serving to preserve its bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

While fresh salmon is preferred for the best texture and flavor, frozen salmon fillets can be used if completely thawed and patted dry beforehand. Just be sure not to overwork the fish as you roll to maintain its integrity.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If ricotta isn’t available, you can try mascarpone or cream cheese as a substitute. These alternatives will still provide a creamy texture but may alter the taste slightly, adding either more richness or slight tanginess.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap out the ricotta and Parmesan for dairy-free cheese alternatives made from cashews or almonds. Additionally, use a vegan butter substitute for the sauce to keep it dairy-free while still delicious.

How do I know when the salmon rolls are done baking?

The salmon rolls are cooked when the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Usually, 15–20 minutes at 425°F will do the trick, but every oven varies, so keep an eye on that beautiful pink turning lighter.

Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time before baking?

Absolutely! You can assemble the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe a few hours ahead of baking and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready for the oven. This makes it easy to prepare in advance without sacrificing freshness.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe that makes it a standout in any meal rotation. It’s fresh, vibrant, and surprisingly easy to make, delivering elegance and great flavor without fuss. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s sure to become a new favorite that you’ll want to share over and over again with friends and family.