Ingredients
For the Salmon Rolls:
- 4 salmon fillets, skinless and thin (about 6 oz each)
- 8 asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Lemon Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with chopped basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. This filling should be creamy, fragrant, and zesty—think of it as a soft cloud of lemony sunshine.
- Prep the Salmon: Lay each salmon fillet flat, and if necessary, pound lightly with a mallet or the back of a pan to make rolling easier. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta filling onto each fillet.
- Add the Asparagus and Roll: Place two asparagus spears at one end of each fillet and gently roll it up. Secure with a toothpick or kitchen twine. Brush lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Sear and Bake: In an ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon rolls for 1–2 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon is cooked through.
- Make the Lemon Sauce: While the salmon bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking. Add lemon juice and zest, then simmer until slightly thickened. Season to taste.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm lemon sauce over the salmon rolls just before serving. Garnish with extra basil or lemon zest for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- This dish pairs beautifully with a light quinoa salad, roasted potatoes, or steamed couscous.
- A glass of sparkling water with mint and lemon enhances the freshness of the meal.
- Ensure salmon fillets are thin and even for easier rolling and even cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright flavor in both filling and sauce.
- To secure the rolls while cooking, toothpicks or kitchen twine works well; just remember to remove before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American