The aroma of fresh salmon, paired with zesty lemon and creamy ricotta, wafts through the kitchen, sending your taste buds into a happy dance. Picture this: tender salmon rolls bursting with vibrant asparagus and fragrant basil ricotta, ready to steal the show at your next dinner party or cozy family gathering.
Think of those moments when you gather around the table, laughter echoing and plates piled high with deliciousness. This Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making every occasion feel a little more special. Trust me; it’s about to become your new favorite dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful dish is easy to prepare, even for novice cooks who want to impress.
- Bursting with fresh flavors, each bite offers a perfect blend of creaminess and zest.
- The vibrant presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.
- Versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy occasion, this recipe shines in any setting.
Ingredients for Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Opt for skinless fillets that are firm and bright in color; they will be the perfect canvas for stuffing.
- Asparagus: Choose vibrant green spears that are fresh and crisp; they add texture and flavor.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves bring aromatic notes; pick leaves that are bright green without blemishes.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it melds beautifully with the other flavors.
- Lemon Zest: Freshly grated lemon zest adds brightness; avoid dried zest for the best flavor impact.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances all flavors; it’s the perfect finishing touch.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s natural flavors—never underestimate their importance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray so the salmon doesn’t stick like your kids do on movie night.
Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus
Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears (you know, those parts that could probably double as toothpicks). Blanch them in boiling water for about two minutes until they’re bright green. Then plunge them into an ice bath to stop cooking—this keeps them crisp!
Step 3: Make Your Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped basil leaves, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well blended—a bit like mixing your emotions after watching a tear-jerking rom-com.
Step 4: Assemble the Salmon Rolls
Take one salmon fillet at a time. Spread about two tablespoons of the ricotta mixture on top of each piece before laying down two blanched asparagus spears side by side. Roll it up tightly like you’re wrapping up leftovers you hope you’ll eat later (spoiler alert: you won’t).
Step 5: Bake
Place each roll seam-side down in your greased baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt over them for good measure. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork—trust me; you’ll want it cooked perfectly without being dry as last week’s bread.
Step 6: Serve Up Your Culinary Masterpiece
Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes before plating. Transfer these beauties onto serving plates and garnish with additional basil if you’re feeling fancy (and we know you are).
And there you have it! A stunning plate of Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls that’s sure to wow everyone at your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite while basking in compliments—you’ve earned them!
You Must Know
- This delightful Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls not only impress your guests but also simplify your dinner routine.
- The colors pop, the flavors burst, and it’s adaptable for various occasions, from casual weeknights to fancy dinner parties.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the ricotta filling while preheating your oven. Next, season and roll the salmon with the stuffing inside. Bake until perfectly flaky, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap asparagus for spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley if basil isn’t your thing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in an oven at a low temperature to preserve moisture and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavors; old herbs can dull your dish.
- Be gentle when rolling the salmon to keep it intact.
- Let the stuffed rolls rest before slicing for cleaner edges.
Cooking this dish reminds me of a lively family gathering where everyone was raving about how delicious it turned out, proving that a little creativity can transform a simple meal into something special.
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls?
To prepare Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls, you will need fresh salmon fillets, ricotta cheese, fresh basil leaves, lemon zest, asparagus spears, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure to select high-quality ingredients to enhance the dish’s flavor. This combination of creamy ricotta and vibrant asparagus creates a delightful filling that pairs perfectly with the rich salmon.
How long does it take to prepare Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls?
The preparation time for Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls typically takes about 15 minutes. Cooking the rolls will require an additional 20 minutes in the oven. This means you can enjoy a delicious, healthy dinner in under an hour. The quick preparation makes this dish ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls?
Yes, you can customize your Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls to suit your taste preferences. If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, consider using goat cheese or cream cheese as alternatives. For a different flavor profile, experiment with other herbs like dill or parsley instead of basil. These substitutions will still maintain the essence of this scrumptious dish while adding unique twists.
What is the best way to serve Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls?
Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls are best served warm straight from the oven. Pair them with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Drizzling a bit of lemon juice over the top before serving enhances the flavors further. You can also serve them with a side of quinoa or rice for extra texture and nourishment.
Conclusion for Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls:
Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls offer a delicious balance of flavors while being simple to prepare. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese with fresh lemon zest elevates each bite, while tender asparagus adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for any occasion, this dish showcases the versatility of salmon in healthy cooking. Enjoy these rolls as an elegant entrée that delights your taste buds while being easy on your schedule.
Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls
Asparagus and Lemon and Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls are a delightful culinary creation that elevates your dining experience. Juicy salmon fillets are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, fresh asparagus, and zesty lemon, creating a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings, this recipe promises to impress your guests while being simple enough for novice cooks.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 12 asparagus spears, trimmed
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 2 minutes; transfer to an ice bath.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Spread ricotta mixture on each salmon fillet, place 3 asparagus spears on top, and roll tightly.
- Place rolls seam-side down in the baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and bake for 20-25 minutes until salmon is flaky.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon roll (170g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - Substitute spinach for asparagus or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. - Experiment with herbs like dill or parsley if desired. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
