Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Roll Ups: Elegant, Flavorful & Perfect for Any Occasion

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When it comes to seafood, few combinations feel as luxurious and satisfying as salmon paired with succulent shrimp. Imagine the rich, buttery texture of salmon fillets wrapped around a savory shrimp stuffing, infused with herbs, a hint of garlic, and creamy cheese, then baked to perfection. Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Roll Ups offer all that — a dish that’s as stunning on the dinner table as it is delicious on the plate.

This recipe is ideal for a special family dinner, date night, or even entertaining guests. It strikes the perfect balance between impressive and approachable. The roll-ups are packed with fresh flavors and provide a wonderful mix of textures, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, with a few handy tips and tricks, you can prepare this gourmet meal without stress or fuss.

If you love seafood and are looking to elevate your dinner game with a recipe that will wow, keep reading. I’ll walk you through every detail — from ingredient selection to plating tips — so you can master this stunning dish.

Why You’ll Love These Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Roll Ups

  • Elegant yet simple to make
  • Combines two seafood favorites into one dish
  • Healthy and packed with protein and omega-3s
  • Perfectly balanced flavors with fresh herbs and garlic
  • Great for impressing guests or spoiling yourself
  • Versatile: pairs well with a variety of sides

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe serves 4 people generously.

For the Salmon Roll Ups:

  • 4 salmon fillets, skin removed and butterflied (about 6-7 oz each)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

For the Shrimp Stuffing:

  • 12 oz raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional but recommended)
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika for subtle smoky flavor

Optional Garnish:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Extra fresh herbs (parsley, dill)
  • A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or melted butter

Equipment Needed

  • Sharp knife for butterflying salmon
  • Food processor or knife for chopping shrimp finely
  • Large skillet for cooking shrimp filling
  • Baking dish or sheet
  • Toothpicks (optional, to secure roll-ups)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Start by butterflying your salmon fillets. This means slicing each fillet horizontally almost all the way through, then opening it like a book to create a larger, thinner piece of fish that will roll easily. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels, then season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

If you’re not comfortable butterflying the salmon, ask your fishmonger to do it for you or buy thin-cut fillets that are already ideal for rolling.

2. Make the Shrimp Filling

Finely chop the raw shrimp either by hand or pulse in a food processor until it resembles a coarse paste but still has some texture.

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and shallots, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 2 minutes). Add the chopped shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients

Once the shrimp mixture has cooled a bit, transfer it to a bowl. Stir in the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, dill, lemon juice, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. The cream cheese helps bind everything while adding richness.

Taste your filling and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want a bit more tang, add an extra splash of lemon juice.

4. Assemble the Roll Ups

Lay the butterflied salmon fillets flat on a clean surface or cutting board. Divide the shrimp filling evenly among the fillets, placing it along one edge closest to you.

Carefully roll the salmon up, starting from the edge with the filling, tucking the filling inside as you roll. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to keep them from unrolling.

5. Cook the Roll Ups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.

Place the salmon roll ups seam side down in the dish. Brush or drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter over the tops for a beautiful golden finish.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon moist.

6. Serve with Style

Remove toothpicks before serving. Arrange the roll ups on plates and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit of melted butter or olive oil.

Perfect Side Dishes to Pair With Your Salmon Roll Ups

To round out your meal, consider these easy yet elegant sides:

  • Garlic Butter Asparagus: Quick sautéed asparagus with garlic and lemon zest.
  • Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
  • Herbed Quinoa or Wild Rice: Adds a nutty texture and absorbs extra sauce.
  • Simple Mixed Greens Salad: With a light vinaigrette to balance richness.
  • Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy and seasoned with rosemary and garlic.

Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Roll Ups

  • Fresh is best: Use the freshest salmon and shrimp you can find for maximum flavor.
  • Don’t overwork the shrimp filling: Keep some texture for a better bite.
  • Butterfly carefully: Practice makes perfect — the thinner and more even the salmon fillet, the easier it rolls.
  • Keep an eye on baking time: Salmon cooks quickly; overcooking dries it out. Use a thermometer if you want precision (target internal temp: 125°F/52°C for medium).
  • Make ahead: Prepare the filling a day ahead to save time, and assemble just before baking.
  • Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top before baking for texture contrast.
  • Experiment with herbs: Tarragon or chives can be great alternatives or additions to parsley and dill.

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Roll Ups

Both salmon and shrimp are nutritional powerhouses:

  • Rich in protein: Supports muscle health and satiety.
  • High in omega-3 fatty acids: Beneficial for heart and brain health.
  • Low in calories: Makes this dish both light and satisfying.
  • Packed with vitamins and minerals: Including B vitamins, selenium, and potassium.

This recipe combines the best of both worlds delicious taste with impressive health benefits.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Roll ups falling apart: Make sure the salmon fillets are thin and even. Use toothpicks for support if needed.
  • Shrimp filling too loose: Add a little more cream cheese or Parmesan to bind it.
  • Dry salmon: Avoid overcooking and consider brushing with butter or olive oil before baking.
  • Fishy smell: Use very fresh seafood and add lemon juice or fresh herbs to brighten the flavors.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Dinner With This Stunning Seafood Dish

Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Roll Ups deliver an impressive combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition that’s sure to delight anyone at your table. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality experience you can recreate at home. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a celebratory meal with friends, these roll ups are guaranteed to impress.

Take your time with the prep, savor the process, and enjoy the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen. The best part? You get to sit down and relish a beautiful dish made with love and care.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you put on it. Feel free to share your photos or questions in the comments!

Happy cooking and bon appétit!