The aroma of fresh lemon zest mingling with the earthy scent of asparagus wafts through the kitchen as you prepare to plunge into a culinary delight—Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce. Imagine tender salmon fillets rolled around creamy ricotta infused with bright basil and crisp asparagus. It’s as if spring has jumped onto your plate, making this dish the perfect centerpiece for a gathering or a cozy dinner at home.
Let me tell you a little secret about this dish. The first time I made it for my family, they were skeptical at first—salmon rolled up? But after one bite, their eyes lit up like kids in a candy store. Now it’s our go-to dish for celebrations, sharing laughter and good food while savoring every mouthful of these delicious rolls.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These scrumptious salmon rolls are easy to prepare and make an impressive presentation
- The flavor explosion from the ricotta, asparagus, and lemon is heavenly
- Visually stunning and packed with nutrients, they’re perfect for both special occasions or a casual weeknight dinner
- Versatile enough to serve warm or cold!
My aunt called it “the dish that turned my husband into a salmon lover,” which was no small feat considering he once thought fish was just an elaborate way to ruin dinner.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Choose skinless fillets for easier rolling; wild-caught is always my top recommendation for better flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it makes the stuffing irresistibly smooth.
- Asparagus: Select firm stalks; they should be bright green without any brown spots for that fresh crunch.
- Lemon Zest: Freshly grated zest adds brightness; don’t skip this—it really enhances the flavor!
- Fresh Basil: Use young basil leaves; they bring an aromatic touch that elevates our stuffing.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth without overpowering; I prefer it over fresh garlic in this recipe.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those beautiful flavors in your roll.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling before baking; trust me on this one!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brings out all the flavors in our lemon sauce; bottled juice just won’t do here.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, rinse your salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped basil leaves, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a generous amount of lemon zest. Stir until everything is beautifully blended.
Prep the Asparagus: Trim the tough ends off your asparagus stalks so they fit perfectly inside your rolls. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes until they’re bright green but still crunchy.
Assemble the Rolls: Lay each salmon fillet on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of your ricotta mixture across each fillet and place 1-2 blanched asparagus spears on top before rolling tightly from one end to another.
Bake to Perfection: Place your rolled salmon seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over them generously before popping them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through but still juicy.
Create Your Zesty Lemon Sauce: While the salmon bakes away happily in its oven paradise, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice with olive oil in a small bowl until well combined—a true dressing fit for royalty!
Just like that—your kitchen transforms into a fragrant haven of deliciousness! These succulent rolls will have everyone clamoring for seconds (or thirds), so be prepared! Enjoy every moment as you serve up these delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with zesty lemon sauce drizzled over them—it’s truly an experience worth savoring!
You Must Know
- This delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce not only tantalizes the taste buds, but it’s also visually stunning
- The colors of the dish are bright and vibrant, making it perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the stuffing while the salmon thaws, then roll it up and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes for perfectly cooked salmon.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap asparagus for spinach or add a hint of garlic for an extra flavor boost that will leave your guests guessing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible; they enhance flavor remarkably
- Ensure your salmon is skinless for easy rolling
- Don’t rush the baking time; undercooked salmon can be unappetizing, so check for doneness carefully
The first time I prepared this dish, my friends couldn’t get enough! Their delighted reactions made me realize how special this recipe truly is.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before rolling.
What can I substitute for lemon basil?
Regular basil works well if lemon basil isn’t available.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done properly.

Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (4 rolls)
Description
Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls with Lemon Sauce are a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- Skinless salmon fillets
- Whole milk ricotta cheese
- Fresh asparagus
- Lemon zest and juice
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse and pat dry salmon fillets.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Trim asparagus ends and blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green.
- Lay salmon fillets flat; spread ricotta mixture on top and place 1-2 asparagus spears before rolling tightly.
- Place rolls seam-side down on a greased baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- For the lemon sauce, whisk together fresh lemon juice and olive oil until well combined.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Substitute asparagus with spinach for a different flavor profile. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best taste. Ensure salmon is fully thawed if using frozen fillets.