The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender salmon enveloping rich ricotta cheese intermingled with fresh asparagus and fragrant lemon basil. This is not just any meal; this is an experience—an invitation to gather around the table and indulge in Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce.
Growing up, my family often gathered for Sunday dinners that felt like mini celebrations. The laughter echoed as we devoured buttery garlic bread and fresh pasta. These salmon rolls remind me of those joyous evenings where every bite was infused with love, laughter, and perhaps a few too many helpings of dessert.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These salmon rolls are simple yet impressive enough for special occasions
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating a memorable dish that looks stunning on the plate
- You can prepare them ahead of time for stress-free entertaining or weeknight dinners
- Perfectly balanced between richness and freshness, they will delight your taste buds!
Family members were amazed at how delicious these rolls turned out; even the picky eaters couldn’t resist!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Opt for skinless fillets that are bright in color for maximum freshness.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use whole-milk ricotta for creamy texture; it’s worth it!
- Asparagus: Choose thin stalks that snap easily; they should be vibrant green without blemishes.
- Lemon Basil: This unique herb adds a refreshing citrus flavor that elevates your dish.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness to the entire dish.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: A pinch of salt enhances all flavors; freshly cracked pepper adds spice.
- Pine Nuts (optional): Toasted pine nuts add crunch and an earthy quality if you want extra texture!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Workstation: Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prep the Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus stalks, revealing tender green goodness beneath. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
Create the Filling: In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, minced lemon basil, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice until creamy and well combined. Stir in toasted pine nuts for added crunch if desired.
Roll It Up!: Lay the salmon fillets flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture over each fillet, then place blanched asparagus at one end before rolling tightly like sushi.
Bake to Perfection: Place your rolled salmon seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with salt before baking for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Make That Zesty Sauce!: While waiting for the rolls to bake, whisk together more lemon juice with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This tangy sauce will complement your savory rolls perfectly!
Serve hot from the oven drizzled generously with the lemon sauce—your taste buds will thank you!
This delightful dish combines simplicity with elegance allowing you to impress guests or simply enjoy a gourmet meal at home!
You Must Know
- Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce are not just a meal; they’re an experience
- The blend of flavors and textures creates a dish that’s sure to impress, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the filling while preheating your oven. This way, everything comes together seamlessly for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different veggies or herbs to make this dish uniquely yours. Experimentation is half the fun!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid dry salmon, aim for a medium doneness; it will remain tender and juicy
- Ensure your ricotta is fresh for the best flavor profile
- Lastly, don’t skip the lemon sauce—it ties all the flavors together beautifully!
Sharing my first attempt at these stuffed salmon rolls was memorable; friends were raving about them and even asked for my secret recipe!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for these rolls?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before preparation to maintain texture.
What can I serve with Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls?
Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers last up to three days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Delight in tender salmon rolls stuffed with creamy ricotta, fresh asparagus, and zesty lemon basil, all drizzled with a vibrant lemon sauce. A culinary masterpiece for any occasion!
Ingredients
- Fresh salmon fillets
- Whole-milk ricotta cheese
- Asparagus
- Lemon basil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Trim the woody ends of asparagus and blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, minced lemon basil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until creamy. Stir in pine nuts if using.
- Lay salmon fillets flat, spread the ricotta mixture on each, place asparagus at one end, and roll tightly.
- Place rolls seam-side down in the dish, drizzle with olive oil and salt, then bake for 20–25 minutes.
- While baking, whisk together additional lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon roll (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Experiment with different vegetables or herbs to create your own variation. Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture.
