Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls

Elevate your dinner with these Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls. Tender salmon fillets are wrapped around a creamy, zesty ricotta filling and crisp asparagus spears, creating a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy & Delicious: Packed with omega-3s, protein, and fresh veggies.
• Restaurant-Worthy Presentation: Beautifully rolled salmon fillets make a striking plate.
• Zesty & Fresh: The lemon basil ricotta filling adds a burst of bright, refreshing flavor.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes – perfect for weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon Rolls:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless and pounded to ½-inch thickness)
• 12 asparagus spears, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced for garnish

For the Lemon Basil Ricotta Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (full-fat or part-skim)
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

For Garnish & Serving:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Lemon wedges
• Steamed rice or quinoa
• Mixed greens or a light salad

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Zester or grater
• Sharp knife
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine
• Small saucepan
• Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus

• Bring a small pot of water to a boil and blanch the asparagus spears for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
• Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Basil Ricotta Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salmon Rolls

• Lay each salmon fillet flat on a clean surface.
• Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta filling along the center of each fillet.
• Place 3 asparagus spears over the filling.
• Roll the salmon fillets around the filling, starting from the shorter end. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the rolls intact.

Step 5: Season the Salmon Rolls

• Brush the salmon rolls with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Place lemon slices over each roll for added flavor and visual appeal.

Step 6: Bake the Salmon Rolls

• Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
• Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
• Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

• While the salmon bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
• Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Stir in lemon juice, chicken broth, and basil.
• Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly reduced and fragrant.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

• Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the salmon rolls.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges.
• Serve alongside steamed rice or quinoa and a crisp green salad.

Tips for Perfect Salmon Rolls

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for fresh, thick fillets that are easy to roll without tearing.
• Blanch the Asparagus: This keeps the asparagus tender-crisp and vibrant green.
• Secure the Rolls: Toothpicks or kitchen twine ensure the rolls stay intact while baking.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid dry, overcooked salmon.

Serving Suggestions

• Grain Pairings: Serve with quinoa, couscous, or garlic mashed potatoes.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted Brussels sprouts, steamed green beans, or a fresh cucumber salad.
• Refreshing Drinks: Pair with a chilled sparkling water infused with lemon and basil for a light, zesty finish.

Storage & Reheating

Storing:

• Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Reheating:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and warm the salmon rolls for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on low power to avoid drying out the fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon?
   Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
2. Can I use other types of fish?
   Absolutely! Try cod, halibut, or tilapia for a similar stuffed roll.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes. Substitute ricotta with dairy-free cream cheese or a cashew-based filling.
4. What other herbs can I use?
   Fresh dill, parsley, or thyme are excellent alternatives to basil.

Final Thoughts

Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls are a feast for the eyes and the palate. The creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, and aromatic basil complement the rich, flaky salmon beautifully. This dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutritious ingredients that make it a perfect choice for a healthy, impressive dinner.

Try it out, snap a picture, and share your creation! I’d love to hear how you enjoyed this recipe. Happy cooking!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 350 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 320mg

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