Easter is a time filled with joy, family, and culinary delights, and nothing says “celebration” quite like the vibrant flavors of smoked salmon paired with creamy cheese. When I first created these delightful roll-ups for a family gathering, I was amazed not just by how easy they were to prepare but also by the sheer delight they brought to the table. Each bite bursts with fresh, savory goodness, making them the perfect appetizer for your Easter brunch or any gathering.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups

Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups

The combination of rich smoked salmon and silky cream cheese, layered with the crunch of cucumbers and the creaminess of avocado, creates a mouthwatering treat that will impress your guests without demanding too much of your time. Plus, they look stunning arranged on a platter! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups will quickly become a staple in your recipe arsenal. I can’t wait for you to try them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for last-minute preparations or casual gatherings.
Irresistible Flavor: The smoky salmon, creamy cheese, and fresh greens create a delectable taste explosion in every bite.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These roll-ups have a gorgeous presentation that’s sure to be a conversation starter at your next party.
Flexible Serving: Great as an appetizer, snack, or even an elegant breakfast option.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted for gluten-free diets and can be made vegetarian without the salmon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tbsp everything bagel spice blend: This savory mixture adds a pop of flavor and crunch, enhancing the overall taste. You can substitute it with a blend of sesame seeds, garlic powder, and onion powder if needed.
1 lb smoked salmon, sliced: Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor. Feel free to substitute with lox or gravlax if you prefer a milder taste.
3/4 cup whipped cream cheese, softened: This ensures an easy spreadability without clumps. For lighter options, consider using reduced-fat or dairy-free cream cheese.
2 green onions, sliced: Adds a fresh crunch and a hint of pungency. You can use chives as an alternative if you prefer.
2 tsp lemon zest, freshly zested: This brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness. Always zest fresh lemons for the best aroma and taste.
1 medium avocado, sliced: The creamy texture complements the salmon beautifully. For a lower-fat option, you can use Greek yogurt instead.
Low-sodium soy sauce: A great dipping sauce that adds a touch of saltiness. Tamari or coconut aminos work well for those avoiding gluten.
1 medium jalapeno, sliced: This gives a nice kick, but you can omit it if you prefer something milder.
1 small cucumber, cut into matchsticks: Adds a refreshing crunch. Feel free to swap in other crisp vegetables like bell peppers or carrots if you like.

How to Make Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups

Prepare Your Surface: Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning evenly over it. This acts as the base for your roll-ups, releasing delightful flavor with every bite.

Layer the Salmon: Arrange 1 pound of smoked salmon slices on top of the seasoning, ensuring they overlap slightly to form a nice rectangle. This ensures a consistent flavor in every slice.

Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine 3/4 cup of whipped cream cheese, 2 sliced green onions, and 2 teaspoons of lemon zest. Mix until the ingredients are well-combined and smooth, creating a delightful spread.

Spread the Mixture: Gently spread the creamy mixture over the salmon layer, taking care to cover it evenly. This rich filling is the heart of the roll-ups, enhancing each bite.

Add the Veggies: Place the avocado and cucumber slices in a line about 2 inches from the bottom edge of the salmon. The fresh green color adds visual appeal and a nice crunch to the roll-ups.

Roll It Up: Carefully use the plastic wrap to help roll the salmon over the veggies, starting at the bottom. Tightly roll it into a log shape. This step is crucial as a tight roll helps maintain structure when slicing.

Slice with Care: Slice the log into ¾-inch pieces using a sharp knife. Arrange the pieces on a serving plate. This not only looks beautiful but also reveals the vibrant colors in each roll.

Serve & Enjoy: Top each slice with a slice of jalapeño for a bit of heat and serve with a small dish of low-sodium soy sauce for dipping. These roll-ups are sure to impress both your eyes and taste buds!

Storing & Reheating

To keep your Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Unfortunately, they don’t hold up well at room temperature for more than two hours due to the cream cheese. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To enjoy, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight and serve cold, as reheating could affect their delightful texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be careful not to roll too tightly; too much pressure can squeeze out the fillings, making a mess.
For an extravagant touch, consider adding capers or dill to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor.
Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for easy spreading, and consider mixing it with a bit of yogurt to lighten the texture.
If you’re short on time, pre-sliced smoked salmon can save a lot of effort, but bulk salmon offers better flavor.
Experiment by incorporating different vegetables, like roasted red peppers or sprouts, for added crunch and variety.

Easter Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll Ups are an absolute delight, infused with flavor and colorful presentations. Consider them not only a sophisticated appetizer but also a canvas for your creativity. Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. These roll-ups may turn into your go-to dish for festive occasions! Embrace the freshness they offer and enjoy sharing them with loved ones.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roll-ups the night before serving. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, for the best texture, consume them within three days.

What can I use instead of smoked salmon?

If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, feel free to substitute with cooked shrimp, crab meat, or even a cream cheese and veggie mix for a vegetarian version. This recipe is quite versatile depending on your taste preferences!

Can I customize the filling?

Yes! The filling is flexible; feel free to add capers, fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. This allows you to really make it your own.

How do I prevent the roll-ups from falling apart?

Ensure your salmon layer is wide enough to hold the fillings, and use plastic wrap to help tightly roll it up. A clean, sharp knife will also make it easier to slice without squishing the roll-ups. Enjoy the process, and it will come together beautifully!