If you are looking for a dish that effortlessly combines freshness, creaminess, and vibrant flavors, then this Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. These elegant salmon rolls are packed with a luscious ricotta filling infused with zesty lemon and fragrant basil, complemented perfectly by tender asparagus spears and a bright, tangy lemon sauce. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a fancy weeknight meal, this recipe brings a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the secret to making this dish shine. Each one plays an essential role in building the fresh, creamy, and bright profile of the Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce Recipe, while keeping it accessible and easy to prepare.
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (6 oz each): Fresh and flaky, these fillets are gentle enough to roll and full of heart-healthy omega-3s.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, ricotta adds softness and richness to the filling without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 cup asparagus spears (trimmed): Tender with a slight crunch, asparagus introduces a fresh, green note and a beautiful color contrast.
- 2 tbsp lemon zest: Bursting with citrus aroma, lemon zest brightens every bite and pairs wonderfully with salmon and basil.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped): The herbaceous basil brings a sweet, peppery freshness that elevates the ricotta filling.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a perfect golden exterior when baking the rolls.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: A mild garlic note for depth without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Integral to the lemon sauce, this juice adds tang and liveliness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all other flavors.
- 1 cup vegetable broth: Used to create the light, flavorful lemon sauce that brings the whole dish together.
How to Make Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a baking dish—this will keep your beautifully rolled salmon from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Taking care of these little details sets you up for a perfect cooking experience.
Step 2: Blanch the Asparagus
Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the trimmed asparagus spears for about two minutes. Immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This technique keeps the asparagus crisp, vibrantly green, and ready to add that wonderful fresh snap inside the salmon rolls.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended. This aromatic, creamy filling is the heart of our Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce Recipe, offering a delightful contrast to the tender salmon and crisp asparagus.
Step 4: Assemble the Salmon Rolls
Lay each salmon fillet flat and spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture across the surface. Place two or three blanched asparagus spears at one end of each fillet, then carefully roll the salmon up tightly from that end. Secure each roll with toothpicks if needed to ensure they hold their shape while baking.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Place the salmon rolls seam-side down in your greased baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with a bit of salt and pepper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and just beginning to flake. The aroma at this point is simply irresistible.
Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Sauce
While the salmon is baking, mix the vegetable broth and fresh lemon juice in a small saucepan. Simmer gently until the liquid reduces slightly, forming a bright and tangy sauce that will beautifully complement and uplift the flavors of the salmon rolls once plated.
How to Serve Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a few lemon zest curls add a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness. A light drizzle of the lemon sauce over the rolls before serving ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and moisture.
Side Dishes
These stuffed salmon rolls pair wonderfully with light sides such as garlic roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, or a refreshing mixed greens salad. The freshness of these sides complements the richness of the ricotta-stuffed salmon, making for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, arrange the salmon rolls on a large platter with the lemon sauce artfully drizzled around. Add edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-quality look that will impress your guests and make dinner feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the lemon sauce separate to maintain its fresh taste and proper texture.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for this delicate dish, you can freeze the salmon rolls before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated rolls gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) until warmed through, about 10-12 minutes. Avoid the microwave to maintain the salmon’s texture and flavor. Reheat the lemon sauce on the stovetop before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before assembling the rolls. This helps prevent excess moisture that could affect the texture of the dish.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t available, cream cheese or mascarpone can be used as alternatives, though they will slightly change the texture and flavor of the filling. Mascarpone offers extra creaminess, while cream cheese brings a tangier note.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! All ingredients in this Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time and bake later?
You can definitely assemble the rolls in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just cover them tightly to keep them fresh, and bake as directed when ready.
How do I know when the salmon rolls are fully cooked?
The salmon should be opaque and easily flake when tested with a fork. Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your oven and fillet thickness, so keep an eye on them after the 20-minute mark.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way the bright lemon, aromatic basil, and creamy ricotta come together in the Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce Recipe. This dish feels fancy enough for a special occasion but is simple enough to make any night of the week. I encourage you to give it a try—you may just discover a new favorite way to enjoy salmon that is as delicious as it is beautiful.
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Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delight in these elegant Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls, featuring tender salmon fillets wrapped around a creamy ricotta, fresh basil, and lemon zest filling, paired with crisp asparagus and a tangy lemon sauce. This recipe offers a flavorful, light, and nutritious meal perfect for a special dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon Rolls
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup asparagus spears (trimmed)
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Lemon Sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for baking the salmon rolls.
- Blanch Asparagus: Boil water and blanch the trimmed asparagus spears for about two minutes until just tender, then immediately transfer them to ice water to stop cooking and preserve their bright color.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, lemon zest, chopped fresh basil leaves, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined to create a flavorful filling.
- Assemble Salmon Rolls: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over each salmon fillet. Place two to three blanched asparagus spears at one end of each fillet, then carefully roll each piece up tightly. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to maintain the shape.
- Bake Salmon Rolls: Arrange the salmon rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with additional salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Make Lemon Sauce: While the salmon bakes, combine vegetable broth and fresh lemon juice in a saucepan and simmer until slightly reduced and thickened to intensify the flavors.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks from the baked salmon rolls, plate them, and drizzle with the warm lemon sauce before serving for a delicious finish.
Notes
- Blanching the asparagus keeps it crisp and vibrant in color.
- Use fresh basil and lemon zest for the best aromatic flavor.
- To ensure salmon rolls stay intact while baking, secure them with toothpicks if needed.
- The lemon sauce is optional but adds a bright, tangy element that complements the richness of the salmon and ricotta filling.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste, especially the salt and pepper.
