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Easy Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls: 25-Min Gourmet Recipe

lemon basil salmon rolls - featured image

Quick and elegant salmon rolls with a creamy lemon-basil filling, ready in 25 minutes. Perfect for a light dinner or impressive appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb salmon fillets, skin removed
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed, finely chopped
  • 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: extra basil leaves, lemon slices, red pepper flakes for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup finely chopped basil, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  3. Slice salmon against the grain into thin strips, about 1/2-inch thick (8-10 strips). Pat dry with paper towel.
  4. Lay a salmon strip flat, spread about 1 tablespoon cream cheese mixture evenly over it, leaving a small border. Roll tightly into a spiral and place seam-side down in prepared dish. Repeat with remaining strips. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
  5. Brush tops of rolls with olive oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for extra color.
  7. Let rest 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and lemon slices. Serve warm.

Notes

For easier slicing, chill salmon in freezer for 10 minutes. Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture. Rolls can be assembled up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated; add 2-3 minutes to baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon rolls, lemon basil salmon, quick salmon recipe, gourmet salmon, easy dinner, appetizer