Have you ever dreamed of a seafood dish that feels both indulgent and light? These Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls roll up salmon fillets with lemony ricotta and crisp asparagus for an elegant, flavor-packed twist on seafood night! The tender salmon, brightened by fresh lemon juice and aromatic basil, creates a delectable bite balanced by the satisfying snap of perfectly cooked asparagus. With an intermediate difficulty level, this recipe invites adventurous home cooks to step up their culinary game, yet it remains approachable enough for a cozy weekend dinner or a special celebratory meal. In about 20 minutes of prep, 25 minutes of cooking, and a brief 5-minute rest, you’ll transform simple, wholesome ingredients into an impressive dish that shines as an appetizer, lunch, or dinner. Plus, at around 480 calories per serving, it’s a healthy seafood option that doesn’t skimp on taste or elegance.
Rolling up each fillet around a creamy, herb-infused ricotta filling is surprisingly satisfying—and a feast for the eyes when you slice into those spirals of color and flavor. I’ll never forget the first time I tried these salmon rolls on a breezy Sunday afternoon. The kitchen filled with the gentle sizzle of olive oil meeting fish, and the bright zing of lemon echoed through every corner. As friends gathered around the table, eyes widened at the sight of those artful pinwheels, and before long, laughter mixed with delighted “ooohs” and “aahs” as everyone dug in. Whether it’s a date-night masterpiece, an elegant appetizer for guests, or a simple way to elevate your weeknight menu, these asparagus and ricotta-stuffed salmon rolls are here to impress—and they’re easier than you think. Let’s dive into the key ingredients you’ll need to get started!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ASPARAGUS & LEMON BASIL RICOTTA STUFFED SALMON ROLLS
Before you tie up those salmon rolls, let’s make sure you have all the stars of the show lined up. Each ingredient contributes to the perfect balance of bright, creamy, and fresh notes in every bite.
- Salmon fillets: Provides a rich, flaky base full of healthy omega-3s. Choosing even-thickness fillets ensures uniform cooking and a tender texture.
- Asparagus spears: Adds a vibrant crunch and a hint of earthiness. Trimming the woody ends helps retain just the right bite after roasting.
- Ricotta cheese: Brings a silky, creamy filling that clings to the salmon. Its mild flavor is a perfect canvas for lemon and herbs.
- Fresh lemon juice: Injects zesty brightness that cuts through richness and awakens the palate.
- Fresh basil: Offers sweet, aromatic notes that pair beautifully with salmon and ricotta.
- Fresh parsley: Adds an herbaceous lift and a dash of green color for freshness.
- Olive oil: Essential for searing, creating that golden crust on the salmon rolls before they head into the oven.
- Garlic clove: Infuses the filling with savory depth and a subtle kick that complements the lemon.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors of the fish and filling.
- Lemon slices: A final garnish that reinforces citrus notes and adds visual appeal.
HOW TO MAKE ASPARAGUS & LEMON BASIL RICOTTA STUFFED SALMON ROLLS
Ready to roll? Follow these steps to assemble and cook your salmon rolls to flaky, flavorful perfection.
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot, even environment for baking the salmon rolls through without drying them out.
2. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, fresh basil, fresh parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well blended, with flecks of green herbs visible throughout.
3. Lay the salmon fillets skinless side up on a clean surface and season lightly with salt and pepper. Even seasoning is key to balanced flavor in every bite.
4. Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture over each fillet, leaving a small margin at one edge to make rolling easier.
5. Place three asparagus spears at one end of each fillet. Gently but firmly roll the salmon around the asparagus, creating tight spirals that will hold their shape.
6. Secure each roll with toothpicks to ensure they stay intact during searing and baking.
7. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, place the salmon rolls seam-side down and sear for about 2–3 minutes, or until a golden crust develops.
8. Carefully turn each roll to sear the other side for an additional 2–3 minutes, building flavor and texture.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
10. Remove the toothpicks, garnish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, and serve immediately.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ASPARAGUS & LEMON BASIL RICOTTA STUFFED SALMON ROLLS
Presentation and pairing can elevate these stuffed salmon rolls from delicious to downright memorable. Here are four ways to serve and enjoy them:
- A crisp green salad drizzled with a light lemon-vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon, adding fresh crunch and balancing the creamy ricotta.
- Pile the rolls atop a bed of herb-infused risotto or lemon-butter couscous. The starchy base soaks up any lingering juices for an indulgent, comforting plate.
- Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Chardonnay. The wine’s bright acidity and subtle fruit notes mirror the citrusy, herbal profile of the dish.
- Garnish each plate with extra lemon zest, a few whole basil leaves, and a light drizzle of olive oil to make every serving picture-perfect and bursting with fresh flavor.
HOW TO STORE ASPARAGUS & LEMON BASIL RICOTTA STUFFED SALMON ROLLS
Whether you’re planning ahead or savoring leftovers, proper storage keeps these salmon rolls tasting fresh and vibrant. Follow these tips to maintain texture and flavor:
- Refrigerate promptly in an airtight container. Allow the rolls to cool to room temperature before sealing, then store for up to 3 days. This prevents condensation that can make the asparagus soggy.
- Freeze for longer storage by wrapping each roll individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay at peak quality for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Separate components if you know you won’t eat all the rolls immediately. Store any leftover ricotta filling in a small container to preserve its creamy consistency and prevent it from soaking into the fish.
- Gentle reheating works best: warm the rolls in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave to keep the crust crisp and the salmon tender.
CONCLUSION
From the first squeeze of lemon in that creamy ricotta to the satisfying crunch of freshly roasted asparagus, these stuffed salmon rolls capture the essence of bright, balanced, and elegant seafood cooking. You’ve explored the key ingredients, mastered the step-by-step technique—searing each roll to golden perfection and baking until flaky—and discovered versatile serving and storage tips. Whether you’re aiming to impress at a dinner party or simply elevate a weeknight meal, this Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls recipe offers just the right combination of sophistication and comfort. Feel free to print this article and save it for later; your future self will thank you when you’re craving a beautiful, easy-to-execute seafood dish. Don’t forget, there’s a FAQ coming up below to answer any lingering questions and troubleshoot any hiccups in your kitchen adventure.
I’d love to hear how your rolls turn out! Drop a comment if you try this recipe, share your favorite variations (maybe a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dill twist?), or let me know if you have any questions along the way. Your feedback helps me refine and share even more delicious, home-cooked ideas. Happy cooking, and may your salmon rolls bring joy, flavor, and just a little bit of show-stopper magic to your table!
Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls
Description
These salmon rolls feature creamy ricotta infused with lemon and basil, hugging tender asparagus for a light yet indulgent bite that brightens any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, basil, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are blended.
-
Lay salmon fillets on a clean surface and season with a little salt and pepper.
-
Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture over each salmon fillet.
-
Place 3 asparagus spears at one end of each salmon fillet and tightly roll up the fillet around the asparagus.
-
Secure each roll with toothpicks to ensure they hold together during cooking.
-
Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon rolls seam-side down and sear for about 2-3 minutes or until golden.
-
Carefully turn the rolls to sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
-
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
-
Remove toothpicks before serving. Garnish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Note
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
- Substitute basil with dill for a different herbal note.
- Ensure the salmon fillets are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
