Description
Enjoy the vibrant taste of Asparagus Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls, featuring tender salmon wrapped around crisp asparagus and marinated in a zesty lemon-basil blend. This dish is ideal for a light meal or as an elegant appetizer, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus (about 1 pound)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil for grilling
Instructions
- Rinse the asparagus under cold water and pat dry.
- Trim the tough ends by bending each spear until it snaps.
- Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and blanch the asparagus for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, or preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to create the marinade.
- Place salmon fillets on a plate and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well-coated. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Lay a salmon fillet skin-side down on a cutting board.
- Place 2-3 asparagus spears at one end of the fillet and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Roll the salmon around the asparagus, tucking in the sides. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Repeat with remaining fillets and asparagus.
- Lightly oil the grill grates or spray with cooking spray. Place the rolls seam-side down on the grill.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and flaky. For oven baking, place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- If using a grill pan, cover with a lid for even cooking, checking for doneness.
- Remove the rolls from the grill or oven and let rest for a couple of minutes.
- Slice into bite-sized pieces or serve whole on a platter.
- Drizzle with remaining marinade and garnish with fresh basil and lemon wedges.
- Enjoy warm, paired with a light salad or your favorite side dish.
Notes
- For added crunch, consider including toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds in the filling.
- Substitute dill or cilantro for basil for a different flavor.
- This recipe can also be adapted for chicken breast or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like thinly sliced bell peppers or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes