Celebrate Easter with these elegant smoked salmon and cream cheese roll ups, a dish that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Combining smoky, creamy, and fresh flavors, these roll ups are a delightful appetizer perfect for springtime gatherings.
This no-cook recipe uses simple ingredients to create a sophisticated bite that guests will adore. With a hint of tangy lemon zest and the subtle crunch of cucumber and jalapeño, these roll ups bring balance and freshness to your holiday table.
- Easy to prepare within 20 minutes, requiring no cooking skills or equipment.
- The combination of smoky salmon and zesty cream cheese creates a flavorful, refreshing bite.
- Perfect for Easter celebrations and other festive occasions as a light appetizer.
- Low-fat and nutritious, making it a healthy option for your guests.
Ingredients
- Everything bagel spice blend: A 2-tablespoon sprinkle of this seasoning adds a savory, crunchy texture and bold flavor to the roll ups.
- Smoked salmon, sliced (1 lb): High-quality smoked salmon provides that rich, smoky taste and delicate texture required for the rolls.
- Whipped cream cheese (3/4 cup, softened): Smooth and creamy base that balances smoky salmon and adds a luscious mouthfeel.
- Green onions (2, sliced): Adds a mild onion flavor and subtle crunch, enhancing the freshness of the filling.
- Lemon zest (2 tsp, freshly zested): Brightens the cream cheese mixture with a citrusy aroma and tang.
- Avocado (1 medium, sliced): Adds creamy texture and a subtle nutty flavor, complementing the smoky fish.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Used for dipping, brings a salty umami contrast to the creamy and smoky layers.
- Jalapeño (1 medium, sliced): Offers a spicy kick on top of each roll, which can be adjusted by removing seeds.
- Cucumber (1 small, cut into matchsticks): Provides a cool, crisp crunch to balance the creamy and rich ingredients.
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning base
Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap and evenly sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the everything bagel spice blend over it. This layer ensures every bite has a deliciously seasoned crust and adds texture and flavor right from the outside.
- Arrange the smoked salmon
Carefully place 1 pound of smoked salmon slices over the spice layer in a slightly overlapping rectangular shape. The salmon forms the outer wrap of your roll ups and its smoky flavor is the star ingredient.
- Make the cream cheese mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of softened whipped cream cheese with the sliced green onions and freshly zested lemon. Mix until smooth and well combined. This mixture brings creaminess with a fresh, zesty bite, balancing the smoky salmon flavors.
- Spread the cream cheese over salmon
Gently spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the salmon surface. This layer is essential to bind the roll while adding rich but light creaminess that contrasts with the smoky fish.
- Layer the fillings
Arrange the sliced avocado and cucumber matchsticks in a single line about 2 inches from the bottom edge of the salmon rectangle. These fresh ingredients add texture, creaminess, and crispness, elevating mouthfeel and taste complexity.
- Roll the salmon tightly
Using the plastic wrap underneath, carefully roll the salmon tightly from the bottom edge, creating a compact log. A tight roll holds the filling securely and makes slicing easier without unraveling.
- Slice and plate
Slice the log into approximately 3/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on a serving platter. Presenting as bite-sized roll ups makes them perfect for sharing and elegant for entertaining.
- Add final garnish and serve
Place a jalapeño slice atop each roll for a subtle heat boost. Serve rolls alongside low-sodium soy sauce for dipping, delivering a salty umami lift that complements the creamy and smoky layers.
- Opt for premium smoked salmon to ensure rich flavor and smooth texture in your roll ups.
- Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat or keep them for more spice, according to preference.
- Extra everything bagel seasoning can be sprinkled on top before serving for an added crunch and flavor pop.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover roll ups tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture and flavor, consume fresh as rolling and slicing exposes delicate ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these smoked salmon roll ups as a classy appetizer with chilled sparkling wine or a light white wine. They also pair beautifully with a crisp spring salad or a platter of fresh veggies for a colorful appetizer spread.
- Use plastic wrap to help create tight, even rolls that hold their shape when sliced.
- Softening the cream cheese to room temperature makes spreading easier and results in even coverage.
- Fresh lemon zest brightens the mixture without adding acidity, preserving creamy texture.
FAQs
- Can I make these roll ups ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them up to a few hours before serving and keep refrigerated tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.
- What can I substitute for whipped cream cheese?
You can use regular cream cheese whipped to soften, or a light cream cheese alternative for lower fat options.
- Can I omit the jalapeño?
Absolutely. The jalapeño adds spice but you can leave it out or replace with mild bell pepper slices.
- How do I slice the roll ups without them falling apart?
Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife and slice gently in one motion while holding the roll firmly with the plastic wrap underneath.
- Is there a vegan alternative for this dish?
You could try smoked carrot lox and vegan cream cheese, though textures and flavors will differ.
Easter Smoked Salmon Roll Ups
Equipment
- 1 large sheet of plastic wrap
- 1 mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp everything bagel spice blend
- 1 lb smoked salmon sliced
- 3/4 cup whipped cream cheese softened
- 2 green onions sliced
- 2 tsp lemon zest freshly zested
- 1 medium avocado sliced
- 1 small cucumber cut into matchsticks
- 1 medium jalapeño sliced
- low-sodium soy sauce for serving
Instructions
- Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning evenly over it.
- Arrange smoked salmon slices over the seasoning in an overlapping rectangle.
- In a mixing bowl, combine whipped cream cheese, sliced green onions, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the salmon layer.
- Place avocado and cucumber slices in a line about 2 inches from the bottom edge of the salmon.
- Using the plastic wrap, roll the salmon tightly into a log shape.
- Slice the log into 3/4-inch pieces and arrange them on a serving plate.
- Top each piece with a jalapeño slice and serve with soy sauce on the side.
Notes
- Choose high-quality smoked salmon for best flavor.
- Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat.
- Sprinkle extra everything bagel seasoning before serving for added taste.
