Name: Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls to Wow Your Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets Salmon (Fresh or thawed frozen); 1 cup Ricotta cheese (Can be swapped with cream cheese or goat cheese); 8 spears Fresh asparagus (Can be substituted with blanched green beans); 1 tbsp Lemon zest (Fresh for maximum aroma); 2 tbsp Lemon juice (Freshly squeezed); 2 cloves Minced garlic (Adjust based on personal taste); to taste Salt and pepper (Essential for seasoning); 1 tbsp Olive oil (For drizzling); 1/4 cup Fresh basil (For fragrance); 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan (Enhances creaminess)

As I stood in my kitchen, the afternoon sun pouring through the window, the vibrant colors of fresh asparagus and golden salmon called to me. I decided to bring a burst of flavor to dinner with Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls. This delightful dish is perfect for those evenings when you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen. With a creamy ricotta filling and zesty lemon basil, these rolls not only offer a quick dinner solution but also pack a nutritious punch that keeps you feeling great. The contrast of flaky salmon with the crunchy asparagus makes every bite a joy, and the best part? They’re low-calorie, too! Are you ready to elevate your weeknight meals and impress your loved ones with this delightful fusion? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together!

Why will you crave these salmon rolls?

Vibrant Ingredients: Each bite is a celebration of color and taste, featuring fresh asparagus and zesty lemon basil that brighten up your dinner plate.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, these rolls are perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a delicious meal without the fuss.
Healthy Option: With only approximately 390 calories per roll, you can enjoy a guilt-free dinner that aligns with your healthy lifestyle.
Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap ricotta for cream cheese or try different veggies like spinach – the possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your family or guests with these restaurant-quality rolls that will have everyone coming back for seconds. For a refreshing accompaniment, consider serving it with a light salad or some quinoa, just like in my recipe for Orange Glazed Salmon or Baked Pesto Salmon.

Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls Ingredients

For the Salmon Rolls
• Salmon fillets – Main protein to create a flaky, delicious base; fresh or thawed frozen is best.
• Ricotta cheese – Provides a creamy filling; can be swapped with cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor.
• Fresh asparagus – Adds a crunchy texture and bright flavor; feel free to use blanched green beans as a substitute.
• Lemon zest – Infuses the dish with brightness; make sure it’s fresh for maximum aroma.
• Lemon juice – Balances the richness of ricotta; freshly squeezed is ideal for the best taste.
• Minced garlic – Offers savory depth; adjust the amount based on your personal taste.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; always a must for flavor enhancement.
• Olive oil – Adds richness when drizzled over the rolls before baking.

Optional Add-ins
• Fresh basil – Incorporates a fragrant hint; it pairs beautifully with the lemon.
• Grated Parmesan – For an extra layer of flavor in the ricotta filling; enhances creaminess.

These Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls are not only quick and healthy, but they also promise to dazzle your taste buds with vibrant flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is crucial for ensuring that the salmon cooks evenly and develops a light golden exterior. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace to make the upcoming steps seamless.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped fresh basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well incorporated and smooth. This creamy filling will be the heart of your Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls, providing a burst of flavor.

Step 3: Blanch the Asparagus
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, carefully add the fresh asparagus and blanch for 1-2 minutes until they turn vibrant green but remain slightly crisp. Afterward, strain the asparagus and plunge them into a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. This step enhances their color and texture, making your dish even more appealing.

Step 4: Prepare the Salmon Fillets
Take your salmon fillets and cut them open by butterflying them, creating a pocket for the filling. Use a meat mallet to gently flatten the fillets, ensuring they are even in thickness. This technique allows for better rolling and ensures the Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls cook uniformly.

Step 5: Stuff and Roll the Salmon
Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture over each salmon fillet, making sure to cover it generously. Place a few blanched asparagus spears at one end and carefully roll the salmon tightly, starting from the end with the asparagus. Secure each roll with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep the filling intact during baking.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Arrange the salmon rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops of the rolls and sprinkle with salt and pepper for added flavor. This step not only enhances the taste but also helps achieve a beautifully cooked exterior as your Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls bake.

Step 7: Bake the Salmon Rolls
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on the salmon; it’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The result will be perfectly cooked rolls that are tender and full of vibrant flavor, ready to be enjoyed!

Make Ahead Options

These Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls are a fabulous choice for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. To maintain quality, be sure to store them seam-side down and add a drizzle of olive oil just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious dinner, take them out of the fridge and bake as instructed, allowing an extra 2-3 minutes if they are still chilled from the fridge. This way, you’ll have a delightful and nutritious meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the flavors of these delicious salmon rolls.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery comfort that balances the lightness of the salmon, providing a hearty contrast to each bite.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing choice, featuring lemon and herbs that harmonize beautifully with the zesty profile of the rolls.
Roasted Broccoli: Crisp-tender and slightly charred, the nuttiness of broccoli enhances the dish’s overall flavor while adding vibrant color to your plate.
Cherry Tomato Salad: Juicy, sweet tomatoes tossed with basil and olive oil provide a burst of freshness that mirrors the herbs in your salmon rolls.
Steamed Asparagus: For a cohesive meal, serve alongside simply steamed asparagus with a squeeze of lemon to echo the bright flavors.
Cucumber & Feta Salad: This crunchy, tangy salad adds a refreshing contrast, while the briny feta enhances the savory notes of the dish.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly, refreshing drink perfectly offsets the richness of the salmon, cleansing your palate between bites.
Lemon Sorbet: An ideal light dessert, its citrus notes provide a lovely finish that complements and brightens the meal.

How to Store and Freeze Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls

Fridge: Store leftover salmon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining flavor and texture.

Freezer: You can freeze the assembled, uncooked salmon rolls for up to 2 months. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Bake frozen rolls straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. For refrigerated rolls, reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Make-Ahead Tip: Feel free to assemble the Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls several hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator to save time on busy nights.

Expert Tips for Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls

Thaw Properly: Ensure your salmon is completely thawed if using frozen fillets. This guarantees even cooking and tenderness.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe, delicious results.
Prep Ahead: Consider assembling the rolls a few hours beforehand to save time. Just be mindful to adjust the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Perfectly Blanched Asparagus: Don’t over-blanch the asparagus; 1-2 minutes is enough to keep them vibrant and crunchy, enhancing texture in your salmon rolls.
Season Generously: Remember to season every layer, from the ricotta filling to the salmon exterior. A little extra salt and pepper can elevate the overall flavor of your Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls.

Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these salmon rolls to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Replace ricotta with cashew cream for a rich, nutty flavor that keeps the rolls creamy and delicious.
Greens Swap: Use fresh spinach or kale instead of asparagus for a different texture and a nutritious boost.
Cheesy Twist: Fold in some grated Parmesan or feta cheese to the ricotta filling for added savory richness.
Heat It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a subtle kick that enhances the flavors beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by mixing in chopped fresh dill or parsley along with the basil for a refreshing taste.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pine nuts in the ricotta mixture to add a delightful crunch and depth to the filling.
Citrusy Burst: Squeeze in some orange juice along with the lemon juice for a unique citrus twist that brightens up the dish.
Protein Boost: For an extra layer of protein, consider folding in some cooked, shredded chicken or turkey into the ricotta filling.

These variations not only keep your meals exciting but also allow you to explore new tastes and textures. For a perfect side to complement your salmon rolls, a light salad or some steamed veggies could elevate your dining experience even further – just like in this recipe for Lemon Sugar Cookies or Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Asparagus Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls o5wer0

Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best asparagus for the rolls?
When selecting asparagus, look for firm stalks with vibrant green color and tightly closed tips. Avoid any that show signs of wilting or have dark spots all over, as these indicate age. Thicker asparagus will provide a heartier texture, while thinner stalks are more tender, so choose based on your preference!

What’s the best way to store leftover salmon rolls?
Store leftover Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method keeps them fresh and preserves their flavors and textures wonderfully. Just make sure they’re completely cool before sealing to avoid moisture buildup inside the container.

Can I freeze the salmon rolls? How?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, uncooked salmon rolls for up to 2 months. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

What if I want to make these rolls ahead of time?
Making the Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls ahead is a fantastic idea! You can prepare the rolls and then store them in the refrigerator for several hours before baking. Just ensure to adjust the baking time if they’re chilled, as they might need an extra minute or two in the oven to heat through completely.

Are there any dietary considerations for these rolls?
Yes! While this recipe is naturally low-calorie, if you or your family members have allergies, pay careful attention to the ingredients. Salmon is generally safe for most; however, ensure all cheeses and additional flavorings (like garlic and lemon juice) are suitable for your dietary needs. If you have pets, avoid giving them cooked salmon, as it’s best for their own health to stick to their regular diet!