Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a refreshing appetizer that looks stunning and tastes even better, look no further than these Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls. They’re the very definition of spring on a plate: vibrant green asparagus wrapped in silky smoked salmon, with a creamy, zesty ricotta filling that sings with lemon and fresh basil. Whether you’re hosting a special brunch or just elevating an everyday lunch, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings both elegance and flavor with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, bringing unique flavors and textures together into perfect harmony. Here’s how each one shines and a couple of quick tips to get the very best results from your shopping basket.
- Smoked salmon (8 ounces, thinly sliced): The savory, buttery base that wraps everything up—literally—and delivers rich flavor in every roll.
- Asparagus spears (8, trimmed): For crisp freshness and a vibrant, spring-green pop, choose spears of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Creamy and mild, it provides the velvety, cloud-like filling; full-fat ricotta works best for texture and taste.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the filling instantly; freshly squeezed juice makes a world of difference.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Adds aromatic citrus oils for an irresistible zing without extra acidity.
- Fresh basil (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Brings delicate herbal notes—snip it just before using to keep all that fragrance locked in.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Rounds out all the flavors; sea salt is ideal for this subtle but essential seasoning.
- Black pepper (⅛ teaspoon): A touch of mild heat to balance the freshness of the herbs and lemon.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A final drizzle for inviting sheen and fruity richness; extra virgin is best here.
- Fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges (to garnish): For a finishing touch that adds color and more zesty aroma.
How to Make Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls
Step 1: Prep the Asparagus
Bring a small pot of salted water to a rolling boil. While the water heats, trim the woody ends off your asparagus. Once boiling, drop the asparagus spears in and blanch for 2 to 3 minutes—just until they’re bright green and tender-crisp. Quickly drain and transfer them to ice water, which locks in that gorgeous color and perfect bite. Once cool, pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Whip Up the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped fresh basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. If you love a little kick, this is where you can sneak in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning to suit your mood.
Step 3: Roll It Up
Lay your smoked salmon slices flat on a clean work surface. Spread a thin, even layer of the ricotta mixture over each slice. Place an asparagus spear at one end of each salmon strip, then gently roll it all up, letting the salmon wrap around the filling and asparagus tightly.
Step 4: Arrange and Garnish
Set your rolled creations seam-side down on a pretty serving platter. Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil for a glossy look and added flavor. Scatter fresh basil leaves and add a few lemon wedges as garnish to complete the picture-perfect presentation of your Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls.
Step 5: Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature
These beauties are at their best served cool, but you can also let them sit at room temperature for a mellower flavor. That flexibility makes them ideal for entertaining—no last-minute rush required!
How to Serve Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls
Garnishes
For maximum freshness and eye-catching contrast, dot your serving platter with extra fresh basil leaves—tiny ones look especially delicate. Lemon wedges aren’t just for show; a light squeeze over the rolls right at the table adds irresistible brightness. Try a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper for an added layer of fragrance.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a crisp, leafy salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, or serve alongside a spread of Mediterranean favorites like marinated olives, artichoke hearts, and crusty gluten-free bread if you’re keeping it wheat-free. They’re light enough to be the star at brunch, but substantial enough to headline a sunny-day lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For individual appetizers, serve each roll on cucumber rounds or endive leaves for a stunning open-faced bite. If you’re setting a buffet table, arrange the Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls in a spiral or a zigzag pattern, and tuck edible flowers or microgreens in between for ultimate wow-factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra rolls, simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay beautifully fresh in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours—the flavors actually meld together in the best way, so don’t be shy about making a few extra.
Freezing
Because these rolls feature creamy ricotta and delicate smoked salmon, freezing isn’t recommended. The textures can suffer, and you’ll miss out on that plush ricotta and silky salmon perfection. It’s best to enjoy Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Reheating
No reheating needed! These are designed to be served chilled or at room temperature. If you’ve made them ahead, set them out of the fridge 10 to 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor and mouthfeel. The salmon will melt in your mouth, the ricotta will be luscious, and the asparagus will still have its lovely bite.
FAQs
Can I use grilled or steamed fresh salmon instead of smoked?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste or already have cooked salmon on hand, gently flake it, then press it into thin sheets between wax paper. The rolls will still be delicious, though they’ll have a softer texture and a less smoky flavor.
How far in advance can I make these rolls?
You can prepare Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls up to 4 hours ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness and texture.
What’s the best way to blanch asparagus so it stays crisp?
Make sure your ice water bath is ready before you start boiling the asparagus. Blanch the spears just until they turn bright green, then shock them right away in the ice bath. This locks in crunch and color, ensuring your rolls look and taste their best.
Are these rolls gluten-free?
Yes! Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls are naturally gluten-free, making them ideal for anyone with gluten sensitivities or simply looking for a lighter appetizer option.
Is ricotta the only cheese that works here?
Ricotta provides that lush, creamy base, but you can also try goat cheese for a tangier filling or a whipped feta for a saltier punch. Just keep in mind that the consistency should be spreadable and not crumbly.
Final Thoughts
There’s an effortless elegance to these Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls, making them a must-try for your next gathering. If you’re ready to bring something bright, fresh, and stunning to the table, give this recipe a whirl—you’ll savor every bite, and your guests just might ask for the secret!
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Delightful Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls (about 4 servings) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these elegant Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Salmon Rolls. Perfect for a light lunch or appetizer, these Mediterranean-inspired treats are bursting with flavors of smoked salmon, fresh asparagus, creamy ricotta, and zesty lemon basil.
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
- 8 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon
- 8 asparagus spears, trimmed
For the Ricotta Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For Finishing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Blanch Asparagus: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil and blanch asparagus for 2–3 minutes until just tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to preserve color; pat dry.
- Make Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, basil, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.
- Prepare Rolls: Lay smoked salmon slices flat. Spread a thin layer of ricotta mixture over each slice, place one asparagus spear at one end, and roll up tightly.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, arrange on a platter, and garnish with basil leaves and lemon wedges. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- These rolls make an elegant appetizer or light lunch.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
- Can be prepared up to 4 hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook (with brief blanching)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rolls
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
