Smoked Salmon Roulade
This Smoked Salmon Roulade is a light elegant appetizer or brunch dish that combines soft cream cheese fresh herbs and rich smoked salmon rolled into a fluffy egg base. It’s perfect for special occasions holiday spreads or anytime you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The roulade looks stunning when sliced and delivers a balanced flavor in every bite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 to 12 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
6 large eggs
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Salt and black pepper to taste
8 ounces cream cheese softened
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
6 to 8 ounces sliced smoked salmon
Optional garnish dill sprigs lemon wedges capers
Instructions
Prepare the egg base
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit
Line a jelly roll pan or baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease
Whisk eggs with chopped dill salt and pepper until well combined
Pour into the pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until just set
Let cool completely
Make the filling
In a bowl mix softened cream cheese lemon juice lemon zest and chives until smooth
Assemble the roulade
Carefully flip the cooled egg sheet onto a clean surface
Peel off the parchment paper
Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface
Lay the smoked salmon slices on top of the filling
Roll and chill
Starting from one short end gently roll up the egg sheet into a tight log
Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up
Slice and serve
Slice into rounds using a sharp knife
Garnish with dill lemon wedges or capers if desired
Serve chilled
Tips
Chill before slicing: Make sure the roulade is chilled long enough to set so it holds together better when sliced.
Use room-temperature cream cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more easily with the herbs and lemon juice preventing lumps.
Uniform slices of salmon: Ensure the salmon slices overlap slightly for a seamless roll making the presentation more beautiful.
Tight roll: Roll gently but firmly to ensure the roulade holds its shape. Use parchment paper or plastic wrap to help with the rolling.
Variations
Herb variations: Swap out dill for chives parsley or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Spicy kick: Add a little horseradish wasabi or chili flakes to the cream cheese mixture for some heat.
Cucumber and avocado: Add thin cucumber slices and creamy avocado to the filling for a refreshing texture.
Capers and red onion: Add capers or finely chopped red onion to the filling for a tangy bite.
Smoked salmon and cream cheese with mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon or whole-grain mustard can be added to the cream cheese mixture for a tangy contrast to the smoky salmon.
Citrus twist: Use lime or orange zest in the cream cheese filling for a burst of citrus freshness.
Presentation Ideas
Serve with garnish: Garnish with extra fresh dill lemon wedges or microgreens.
Pair with sides: Serve alongside a simple salad crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Smoked salmon variations: Try using a mix of smoked salmon and gravlax for a blend of textures and flavors.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the roulade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent drying out.
Q: Can I use a different type of fish instead of smoked salmon?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute smoked trout smoked mackerel or even cooked shrimp for a different taste. Just ensure the fish has a similar texture and flavor profile to complement the cream cheese mixture.
Q: Can I make the roulade without cream cheese?
A: Yes you can use alternatives like Greek yogurt ricotta cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese for a different texture and taste. Keep in mind the flavor will change slightly but the roulade will still be delicious!
Q: How do I prevent the salmon from unrolling when slicing?
A: To prevent this ensure the roulade is tightly rolled and chilled for long enough. You can also use plastic wrap or parchment paper to help it hold its shape while you cut it into slices.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! This dish is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients. Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread.
Nutrition (Per Serving approximate)
Calories: 250–300 kcal
Protein: 20–25g
Fat: 18–22g
Carbohydrates: 4–8g
Fiber: 1–2g
Sodium: 600–800mg (depending on smoked salmon and seasoning)
Vitamin C: 6–10% of Daily Value (mainly from lemon and herbs)
Calcium: 4–6% of Daily Value (mainly from cream cheese)
Conclusion
Smoked Salmon Roulade is a versatile and impressive dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any special occasion or casual gathering. With its creamy filling and smoky flavor it’s sure to delight your guests. Feel free to experiment with different fillings herbs and presentation styles to make it your own. Whether you’re preparing it as an appetizer or a snack this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.