Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe
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If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that’s both fresh and satisfying, the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe is a total winner. Combining tender salmon, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil wrapped up in a warm, crispy tortilla, this recipe brings together everything you love about seafood and herbs in a fun, approachable way. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or impressing a friend, these salmon rolls are sure to become a new favorite that feels both elegant and effortless to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe plays an important role, coming together to create a balance of creaminess, brightness, and savory depth. From fresh basil to the zing of lemon, these simple, fresh components make a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
- Skinless salmon fillets: Using fresh, high-quality salmon ensures tender, flaky rolls packed with rich seafood flavor.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds a lovely citrus brightness that lifts the cream cheese and salmon.
- Fresh basil leaves: Chopped basil introduces a sweet, aromatic herbal note that brightens the whole dish.
- Cream cheese: Softened to creamy perfection, it acts as a tangy, smooth base that holds the ingredients snugly.
- Large flour tortillas: These provide the perfect soft wrap that crisps just enough in the oven.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
- Olive oil: A drizzle before baking helps create a golden, slightly crispy exterior on the salmon rolls.
How to Make Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot by the time you assemble the rolls, setting the stage for perfectly baked salmon wrapped in a crispy tortilla.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth and silky. Stir in the chopped basil, then season generously with salt and pepper. This mixture will infuse the rolls with zesty, herbaceous creaminess that perfectly complements the salmon.
Step 3: Spread and Layer
Lay your tortillas flat and spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly, making sure to leave about an inch of space around the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out when you roll them.
Step 4: Add the Salmon
Place thin, even slices of salmon over the cream cheese, distributing it uniformly. This layering ensures every bite of your Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe is packed with fishy goodness balanced by that luscious cream cheese.
Step 5: Roll Them Up
Carefully roll each tortilla tightly from one end to the other, then place them seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Keeping the seam down helps the rolls hold their shape during baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the tops of the rolls for that brilliant golden finish. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the tortillas are crisp and beautifully browned on the outside.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly. Then slice into pinwheels or serve whole, letting the fresh salmon and herbaceous filling shine in every bite.
How to Serve Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the visual appeal and add an extra touch of flavor, consider garnishing with thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dash of cracked black pepper can also elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Pair your Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to echo the rolls’ citrus notes. Roasted veggies or a light cucumber salad also make refreshing complements that keep the meal balanced and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual gathering, slice the rolls into bite-sized pinwheels and arrange them beautifully on a platter with fresh basil sprigs. Alternatively, serve them whole alongside lemon wedges for a satisfying dinner plate that looks as great as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover rolls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. They stay fresh and flavorful but are best enjoyed within that timeframe to preserve the salmon’s tenderness and the tortilla’s crispness.
Freezing
Although these salmon rolls are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze unbaked rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month, and when ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and the tortilla regains some crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortilla soggy and the salmon dry.
FAQs
Can I use other herbs instead of basil?
Absolutely! While basil provides a sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon and salmon, you can try fresh dill or parsley for a different but equally delightful herbal touch.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, preparing the rolls in advance and storing them before baking makes this recipe great for meal prep. Just bake them fresh to enjoy that perfect crispy texture and warm filling.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt or ricotta can work as creamy alternatives, although the texture will be less firm and the flavor mildly different.
What if I don’t have flour tortillas?
You can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas based on your preference, but the size and flexibility matter for rolling. Choose a large, pliable wrap for best results.
Is it safe to eat salmon baked inside the tortillas?
Yes! Baking ensures the salmon is fully cooked through in a moist environment inside the wrap, making the rolls safe and delicious to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe is like discovering a treasure trove of fresh, vibrant flavors wrapped up in a comforting, golden package. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy salmon with a zingy herbal twist that’s surprisingly easy to pull together. So go ahead, gather these ingredients and treat yourself to a dish that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat—you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!
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Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Delight in these Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls, a quick and flavorful oven-baked dish featuring tender salmon fillets wrapped in creamy lemon-basil cream cheese and soft flour tortillas. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, these rolls are fragrant, easy to prepare, and impressively delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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 ensure it reaches the proper temperature by the time the rolls are assembled.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the freshly squeezed lemon juice until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the chopped fresh basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a vibrant and creamy base for the rolls.
- Spread the Mixture on Tortillas: Evenly spread the lemon-basil cream cheese mixture over each of the flour tortillas, leaving about an inch border around the edges to prevent spilling during rolling.
- Assemble the Rolls: Place the salmon fillets evenly on top of the cream cheese layer on each tortilla, distributing the fish to ensure every bite has its rich flavor.
- Roll the Tortillas: Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly from one end to the other, then position them seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to secure them during baking.
- Add Olive Oil and Bake: Drizzle the top of each roll with olive oil for a golden finish, then bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the tortillas turn golden brown and the salmon is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking. Slice into pinwheels for an appetizer-style presentation or serve whole as a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smooth spreading.
- You can substitute flour tortillas with whole wheat tortillas for added fiber.
- Check baking time towards the end as ovens may vary; tortillas should be golden and salmon cooked but moist.
- If preferred, fresh lemon zest can be added to the cream cheese mixture for extra citrus brightness.
- These rolls are best enjoyed warm but can be served at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
