If you’re craving a dish that’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe is going to become your new go-to. This delightful recipe combines tender salmon with creamy, tangy lemon and fragrant basil, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla and baked to perfection. It’s an elegant yet approachable dish that works beautifully for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, delivering a well-balanced taste that dances on your palate with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for this recipe’s magic. Each component plays its part in building a perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and visual appeal, making the process straightforward and enjoyable.
- Salmon fillets (2 skinless, about 8 oz): Fresh salmon ensures a moist, flaky center with a rich, slightly sweet taste.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 tbsp): Adds a bright, zesty acidity that livens up the creamy filling.
- Fresh basil leaves (1/4 cup, chopped): Brings an aromatic herbaceous burst that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Provides a smooth, creamy base to bind the flavors and add richness.
- Large flour tortillas (2): These tender wraps hold everything together and get perfectly golden in the oven.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): A light drizzle gives the rolls a lovely crisp exterior while baking.
How to Make Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your rolls are assembled. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Stir in the chopped basil, then season generously with salt and pepper. This mixture is the flavor-packed foundation that’ll keep your rolls moist and delicious.
Step 2: Assemble the Rolls
Lay out your flour tortillas and spread the lemon basil cream cheese evenly across each one, leaving about an inch clear around the edges. This prevents the filling from oozing out when baking. Next, place thin slices of salmon over the cream cheese, ensuring each bite of the roll will have a perfect hit of that tender, flavorful fish.
Step 3: Roll and Bake
Carefully roll the tortillas tightly from one end to the other to keep everything snug. Place the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent unraveling. Drizzle with olive oil to help achieve that irresistible golden crust. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the rolls turn beautifully golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
Step 4: Serve with Style
Once baked, allow your Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls to cool just enough to handle safely. Slice into pinwheels if you want a charming appetizer shape or serve whole for a heartier presentation. Either way, you’re in for a tasty treat that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
How to Serve Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add extra layers of flavor, sprinkle fresh basil leaves or a light zesting of lemon over the top. A dollop of crème fraîche or a smear of tangy Greek yogurt on the side complements the creaminess while cutting through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or tender roasted vegetables for a colorful, balanced meal. For something lighter, serve alongside a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with a splash of olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these at a party, slice the rolls into bite-sized pinwheels and arrange them on a platter garnished with microgreens or edible flowers for a stunning effect. Alternatively, for a casual lunch, cut in half and stack with extra fresh basil leaves for a bright, appealing sandwich look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftover Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls stay fresh for up to 2 days. Keeping them tightly wrapped helps preserve moisture and prevents the tortillas from drying out.
Freezing
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the rolls before baking by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen but add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through evenly.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their crispness without making them soggy, keeping the salmon tender and the tortilla golden.
FAQs
Can I use smoked salmon in this recipe?
Absolutely! Smoked salmon adds a rich, savory depth and means you can skip the baking step if you prefer a cold roll. Just assemble and enjoy immediately for a quick, delicious snack.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour tortillas with your favorite gluten-free wraps. Just be mindful that some gluten-free tortillas may be more delicate, so handle with care when rolling and baking.
Can I add other herbs besides basil?
Definitely! Herbs like dill or parsley work beautifully with salmon and lemon. If you love a fresh twist, mix in a bit of chives for a subtle onion note.
What’s the best way to slice the rolls to keep them intact?
Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently in a sawing motion. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before cutting to help maintain their shape and avoid filling squeeze-out.
Can I prepare the filling a day in advance?
Yes, making the cream cheese mixture ahead of time allows the flavors to meld wonderfully. Store it covered in the fridge and spread on the tortillas just before assembling and baking.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe is truly a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy night or dazzling friends with your culinary skills, this dish promises to deliver freshness, richness, and pure satisfaction. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite roll!
Print
Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or light meal featuring tender salmon fillets wrapped in soft flour tortillas, smothered with a creamy lemon basil spread, and baked to golden perfection. The bright flavors of fresh lemon and basil combined with the rich cream cheese and flaky salmon create a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon Rolls
- 2 skinless salmon fillets (about 8 oz)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large flour tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the salmon rolls.
- Prepare lemon basil cream cheese: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a flavorful spread.
- Spread the mixture: Evenly spread the lemon basil cream cheese mixture over each flour tortilla, leaving about an inch of space around the edges to allow for rolling.
- Add salmon slices: Place the skinless salmon fillets evenly on top of the cream cheese spread on both tortillas, distributing the fish for a balanced roll.
- Roll tortillas: Starting from one edge, roll the tortillas tightly to form neat rolls. Place them seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to secure the shape while baking.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle the tops of the rolled tortillas with olive oil, which will help achieve a golden and slightly crispy crust during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the rolls turn golden brown and are heated through.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the rolls to cool slightly before slicing them into pinwheels or serving whole as a delicious snack or appetizer.
Notes
- For an extra crispy exterior, you can broil the rolls for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- These rolls can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for parties or quick meals.
- Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version.
- Use gluten-free tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently before serving.
