Description
Delight in these elegant Asparagus and Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Salmon Rolls featuring tender salmon fillets filled with a creamy ricotta, fresh basil, and zesty lemon mixture, perfectly complemented by crisp asparagus spears and baked to juicy perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Rolls
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 8 asparagus spears
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ricotta Filling
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Zest of 1 organic lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Blanch Asparagus: Bring salted water to a boil and blanch the asparagus spears for 2 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine whole-milk ricotta, chopped fresh basil leaves, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the filling is smooth and evenly flavored.
- Assemble Salmon Rolls: Lay each salmon fillet flat on a clean surface. Spoon the ricotta filling evenly over each fillet and place an asparagus spear at one end. Carefully roll up the salmon tightly around the filling starting from the end with the asparagus spear.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the salmon rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season the tops with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake: Bake the stuffed salmon rolls in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- Blanching asparagus briefly and shocking in ice water helps retain its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Make sure to roll the salmon tightly to keep the filling inside during baking.
- Use fresh lemon zest rather than bottled lemon to maximize brightness and flavor.
- If skin-on salmon fillets are used, you may want to remove the skin for easier rolling or cook longer to crisp the skin.
- Serve with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
