If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant appetizer that feels both elegant and effortless, you’ve just found it. This Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe combines luscious smoked salmon with tangy, zesty cream cheese and crisp veggies wrapped into perfect bite-sized delights. Every single element sings—from the creamy avocado and crunchy cucumber to the subtle kick of jalapeño and the irresistible everything bagel seasoning. It’s a showstopper that’s ideal for Easter brunch or any special gathering when you want something light, colorful, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe is in its simplicity and harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays a critical role, offering texture, brightness, or richness that makes every bite a delight.
- Everything bagel spice blend (2 tbsp): Provides that perfect savory crunch and aromatic finish that ties the roll ups together.
- Smoked salmon, sliced (1 lb): The star ingredient that brings smoky, silky, and salty notes essential to the dish.
- Whipped cream cheese, softened (¾ cup): Adds creamy smoothness and a luscious base for mixing in flavors.
- Green onions, sliced (2): Imparts a fresh, mild onion bite to brighten every bite.
- Lemon zest, freshly zested (2 tsp): Introduces a lively, citrusy spark that lifts the overall flavor.
- Avocado, sliced (1 medium): Contributes buttery texture and a subtle richness that balances the acidity.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds a delicate umami touch for dipping or drizzling.
- Jalapeño, sliced (1 medium): Offers a gentle heat and fresh peppery flavor to cut through the richness.
- Cucumber, cut into matchsticks (1 small): Brings crispness and coolness for textural contrast.
How to Make Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base with Everything Bagel Seasoning
Start by laying out a large sheet of plastic wrap on your workspace. Sprinkle a generous 2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning evenly over the plastic. This not only flavors the outside of the roll ups but adds a delightful crunch that will contrast beautifully with the soft salmon and cream cheese.
Step 2: Layer the Smoked Salmon
Next, carefully arrange the 1 pound of smoked salmon slices over the seasoning-covered plastic wrap. Overlap the slices slightly so they form a neat rectangle, giving you a solid, even base to build on. This step ensures every bite hits you with ample smoky goodness.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened whipped cream cheese with the sliced green onions and freshly zested lemon. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This creamy, tangy mixture will marry beautifully with the salmon and provide a zesty, fresh contrast to the richness.
Step 4: Spread the Cream Cheese Over the Salmon
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the smoked salmon. Make sure to cover the entire surface but keep the layer thin enough to not overpower the delicate textures.
Step 5: Add the Avocado and Cucumber
Place thin slices of avocado and crisp cucumber matchsticks in a neat line about 2 inches from the bottom edge of the salmon rectangle. These veggies add creaminess and crunch, playing a critical role in balancing the flavors and textures throughout the roll.
Step 6: Roll it Up Tightly
Using the plastic wrap to help guide you, carefully roll the salmon into a tight log starting from the bottom edge with the avocado and cucumber inside. The plastic wrap will keep it snug and help the roll maintain its shape.
Step 7: Slice and Arrange
Once rolled, slice the salmon log into ¾-inch thick pieces. Arrange the individual roll ups on a serving platter, showcasing their colorful cross sections for an inviting presentation.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top each piece with a slice of jalapeño for a little spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Serve with a small dish of low-sodium soy sauce for dipping or light drizzles, adding another flavorful dimension to your roll ups.
How to Serve Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes is a delightful way to elevate this dish. Beyond the jalapeño slices, you can sprinkle extra lemon zest or a few sprigs of fresh dill. Sea salt flakes also add a nice crunch. These little touches make it look as appetizing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
The roll ups pair wonderfully with simple side dishes that won’t compete with their flavors. Think light mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette, or even a delicate asparagus salad. Crisp crackers or thin slices of toasted baguette also make perfect companions for scooping up any extra cream cheese and salmon goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these roll ups on a beautiful platter lined with fresh herbs or edible flowers to create an Easter-worthy centerpiece. Alternatively, arrange the roll ups in a circular pattern around a small bowl of soy sauce for a striking party platter. You could even thread the roll ups onto decorative cocktail picks for an easy-to-grab finger food option that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keeping them wrapped tightly prevents the salmon from drying out and helps the flavors meld beautifully, making assembly stress-free before your event.
Freezing
While it is possible to freeze these roll ups, it’s not ideal due to the fresh avocado and cucumber, which can become watery or mushy after thawing. If you must freeze, consider assembling only the salmon and cream cheese portion, then adding fresh veggies once thawed for the best texture.
Reheating
Since the roll ups are served cold and feature fresh ingredients that don’t require heating, no reheating is necessary. Simply bring them out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to become more vibrant at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I substitute the smoked salmon with another type of fish?
Absolutely! While smoked salmon gives this dish its signature flavor, thin slices of smoked trout or cured tuna can also work beautifully. Just choose high-quality fish to maintain the delicate balance of flavors.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream cheese?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free whipped cream cheese or a smooth cashew-based spread. Just ensure it has a mild flavor and creamy texture to complement the salmon and veggies.
How spicy is the jalapeño in this recipe?
The jalapeño provides a moderate heat that balances the richness of the cream cheese and salmon. If you prefer less spice, simply reduce the amount or remove the seeds before slicing.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just be sure your everything bagel seasoning and soy sauce are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
What’s the best way to enjoy leftover roll ups?
Leftover roll ups are perfect for picnics, light lunches, or snack platters. Pair them with fresh veggies or simple crackers for an easy and elegant bite anytime.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe, it’ll quickly become a go-to appetizer for celebrations of all kinds. The effortless assembly, bold flavors, and beautiful presentation make it a standout dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to serve. So don’t wait—grab your ingredients, invite some friends over, and delight in these little bites of pure springtime joy!
Print
Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
These Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups are a delightful, fresh appetizer perfect for spring celebrations. Combines smoked salmon, creamy whipped cream cheese, fresh veggies, and tangy lemon zest seasoned with everything bagel spice for a flavorful bite-sized treat that’s elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Roll Ups
- 2 tbsp everything bagel spice blend
- 1 lb smoked salmon, sliced
- 3/4 cup whipped cream cheese, softened
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tsp fresh lemon zest
- 1 medium avocado, sliced
- 1 small cucumber, cut into matchsticks
- 1 medium jalapeño, sliced
- Low-sodium soy sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean surface and evenly sprinkle 2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning over it to create a flavorful base.
- Arrange the salmon: Place the smoked salmon slices on top of the seasoned plastic wrap, overlapping them slightly to form a large rectangular layer.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup of softened whipped cream cheese with the sliced green onions and fresh lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Spread cream cheese: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the salmon layer, ensuring full coverage for balanced flavor in each bite.
- Add fresh vegetables: Place slices of avocado and matchstick cucumber in a line about 2 inches from the bottom edge of the salmon and cream cheese layer.
- Roll the log: Using the plastic wrap to help, carefully roll the salmon from the bottom up into a tight log, encasing the cream cheese and veggies.
- Slice into pieces: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled log into ¾-inch thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Garnish and serve: Top each roll with a slice of jalapeño for a touch of heat and serve alongside low-sodium soy sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to ensure clean slices without tearing the roll ups.
- Adjust jalapeño slices or omit for less spice.
- Keep the roll ups chilled until serving to maintain freshness.
- Can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated, just cover tightly.
- For a gluten-free option, confirm the soy sauce used is gluten-free.
