As the warm sun graces the kitchen with its golden glow, I find myself itching for something light yet satisfying. Enter: Smoked Salmon Roll Ups. These delightful bites are the perfect remedy for those lengthy summer days when cooking feels like an ordeal. With fresh cucumber, creamy avocado, and a zesty lemon and green onion cream cheese filling, they transform ordinary lunch into an extraordinary experience.
I stumbled upon this recipe on a recent lunch break, craving something wholesome yet quick to prepare. The combination of savory smoked salmon and the crunch of cucumbers feels both refreshing and indulgent. These roll-ups not only turn a regular meal into a vibrant affair but are also gluten-free and budget-friendly! Perfect for serving at gatherings or simply enjoying as a solo snack, this dish has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. So gather your ingredients, and let’s roll our way to a healthier, tastier lunch!
Why are Smoked Salmon Roll Ups a must-try?
Easy to prepare: With minimal ingredients, you can whip these up in no time!
Flavor explosion: The savory smoked salmon paired with zesty cream cheese delivers a delightful taste.
Visually stunning: Their sushi-like presentation makes them stand out at any gathering.
Healthy choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, they’re a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile snack: Perfect for lunch, appetizers, or light dinners, you can enjoy them anytime!
Elevate your culinary repertoire with these delicious bites; they are sure to impress both family and friends!
Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create these delightful smoked salmon roll ups.
For the Filling
- Whipped Cream Cheese – Lighter and airier than regular cream cheese, making it perfect for a healthier roll-up.
- Green Onion – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor; only use the green parts for optimal taste.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens the cream cheese filling, balancing out the flavors beautifully.
For the Roll
- Smoked Salmon – Provides savory flavor and protein; ensure you use smoked salmon for the right texture.
- Persian Cucumber – Offers a crisp, refreshing crunch; smaller and less seedy than regular cucumbers.
- Avocado – Creates a creamy texture; slice thinly for easy rolling.
For the Sprinkle
- Everything But The Bagel Seasoning (EBTB) – A sprinkle adds wonderful texture and flavor; use sparingly to avoid overpowering saltiness.
For Dipping (Optional)
- Citrus Soy Sauce – A simple dipping sauce that enhances the umami flavors; made easily with soy sauce, lemon juice, mirin, and green onion.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Roll Ups
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Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix the whipped cream cheese with green onion and lemon zest. This bright, tangy mixture will be the heart of your rolls, enhancing every bite.
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Set Up Roll: Lay plastic wrap on your counter and sprinkle a light layer of Everything But The Bagel seasoning. Arrange smoked salmon slices in a rectangle, slightly overlapping to create an even base.
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Add Filling: Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the salmon; be generous! Then, place strips of cucumber and thin slices of avocado in the center for a flavorful crunch.
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Roll Up: Using the plastic wrap, begin to tightly roll the salmon over the filling until it’s fully wrapped. This will help keep everything secure as you create a delicious cylinder of flavors.
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Chill & Slice: Freeze the roll for about 5-10 minutes to help firm it up. Once chilled, slice into your desired thickness, revealing the pretty layers of flavor inside.
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Serve: Pair these delightful roll-ups with citrus soy sauce for dipping, or enjoy them as is—either way, you’re in for a treat!
Optional: Garnish with additional sliced green onions for a vibrant presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Smoked Salmon Roll Ups?
Elevate your meal with complementary dishes that enhance the fresh and savory notes of these flavorful roll ups.
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Crispy Riced Veggies: These provide a satisfying crunch and a healthier alternative to traditional rice, adding a delightful texture contrast.
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Avocado Salad: The creamy avocado mixed with zesty lime and fresh herbs mirrors the richness of the roll ups, creating a refreshing palate balance.
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Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, this dish adds a wholesome, chewy texture that complements the lightness of the smoked salmon.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the savory, smoky flavors of the roll ups. It adds a celebratory touch to your meal.
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Kale Chips: These offer a crunchy, salty snack that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling of the roll ups while adding an extra health boost.
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Fruit Platter: A mix of citrus fruits like oranges and berries can elevate the meal with a burst of freshness, cleansing the palate between bites.
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Creamy Cucumber Soup: This light, cool soup enhances the flavors of the roll ups and provides a refreshing counterpart to their rich components.
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Herb-Infused Water: Stay hydrated and refreshed with a simple pitcher of water infused with fresh herbs and citrus—perfect for cleansing your palate.
Create a vibrant spread that not only satisfies but also makes your smoked salmon roll ups shine at the center of the table!
Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Variations
Feel free to get creative with these smoked salmon roll ups; there are endless possibilities to elevate your meal!
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Seafood Swap: Replace smoked salmon with cooked shrimp or crab for a different taste. Both options bring a delightful twist while maintaining that seafood flavor.
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Cream Cheese Alternative: Swap avocado for additional whipped cream cheese for a lighter option. This adds a creamier texture and keeps things deliciously rich.
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Seasoning Change: Substitute Everything But The Bagel seasoning with black and white sesame seeds, lending a nuttier flavor that will make each bite more interesting.
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Spicy Kick: Add thin slices of jalapeño or a dash of sriracha in the filling for those who love a bit of heat. This spicy element creates a surprising contrast to the creamy texture.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh dill or chives into the cream cheese filling for an herbaceous note. This simple addition can elevate your salmon roll ups into something truly gourmet.
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Vegetable Variety: Incorporate bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch. These colorful veggies not only add texture but bring a fresh burst of flavor that complements the creamy filling.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use a vegan cream cheese alternative for a completely dairy-free treat. Enjoy the same creamy goodness without compromising on your dietary choices.
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Citrus Zest Boost: Top the roll ups with a sprinkle of lime zest before serving to brighten the flavors even more. This final touch enhances the dish’s overall freshness and vibrancy.
Make Ahead Options
These smoked salmon roll ups are perfect for busy home cooks who appreciate time-saving meal prep! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and cut the cucumbers and avocados up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain their freshness (consider adding a bit of lemon juice to the avocado to prevent browning). When you’re ready to enjoy, simply roll everything together, chill for about 5-10 minutes, and slice. This way, you can serve these delightful bites without the hassle, ensuring they remain just as delicious and vibrant as when freshly made. Prepare ahead, and relish in that extra time saved during your busy day!
Helpful Tricks for Smoked Salmon Roll Ups
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Choose Quality Salmon: Select high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor and texture; it truly makes a difference in your smoked salmon roll ups!
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Avoid Sogginess: Keep cucumbers sliced thin and serve immediately to prevent them from releasing excess water and making the rolls soggy.
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Roll Tightly: Ensure that you roll the salmon firmly but gently; this keeps the filling secure and makes for a neater presentation.
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Perfectly Firm: Don’t skip the chilling step! Freezing the roll for a few minutes helps achieve clean, beautiful slices for your smoked salmon roll ups.
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Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra lemon zest before serving adds a vibrant touch without overwhelming the dish.
How to Store and Freeze Smoked Salmon Roll Ups
Fridge: Store wrapped smoked salmon roll ups in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring they remain fresh and delightful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wrapped roll ups for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to retain texture.
Reheating: These roll ups are best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. If preferred warmed, briefly microwave them for 10-15 seconds.
Freshness Tip: For optimal taste and texture, assemble smoked salmon roll ups just before serving, as ingredients like avocado can brown if stored too long.
Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
What type of smoked salmon is best for the roll ups?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose high-quality smoked salmon rather than lox. Smoked salmon has a firmer texture that holds up better when rolled, giving you a more enjoyable bite.
How should I store leftover smoked salmon roll ups?
Very! Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to keep them fresh and ward off any moisture that could lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze smoked salmon roll ups?
Yes! To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, transfer them to the fridge and let them thaw overnight for the best texture.
What should I do if my roll ups become soggy?
If your roll ups are feeling wet, it’s likely due to the cucumber releasing moisture. To prevent this, always slice cucumbers thinly and serve the roll ups immediately after assembling. If they do get soggy, try placing them on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture before serving.
Are smoked salmon roll ups suitable for people with allergies?
While smoked salmon is generally safe for many diets, individuals with fish allergies should avoid it entirely. Keep in mind, the cream cheese in this recipe contains dairy; for a dairy-free alternative, use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. Additionally, always verify that all ingredients, like soy sauce, are free from allergens if serving to guests.
How can I make smoked salmon roll ups vegan?
To create a delicious vegan version, swap the smoked salmon for thinly sliced marinated tofu or avocado, and use a plant-based cream cheese. You may also add smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of salmon, which will create a surprisingly tasty and satisfying dish!
Savory Smoked Salmon Roll Ups: A Quick, Healthy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix the whipped cream cheese with green onion and lemon zest.
- Lay plastic wrap on your counter and sprinkle a light layer of Everything But The Bagel seasoning.
- Arrange smoked salmon slices in a rectangle, slightly overlapping.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the salmon; add strips of cucumber and thin slices of avocado.
- Using the plastic wrap, tightly roll the salmon until it's fully wrapped.
- Freeze the roll for about 5-10 minutes to help firm it up.
- Once chilled, slice into your desired thickness.
- Serve with citrus soy sauce or enjoy as is.