Name: Easy Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz. smoked salmon; ½ cup whipped cream cheese; 2 Tbsp green onion, thinly sliced; 2 tsp lemon zest; 1 small Persian cucumber, sliced into thin strips; ½ of an avocado, sliced into thin strips; Everything But The Bagel Seasoning (EBTB), as needed; 2 Tbsp soy sauce; 2 Tbsp lemon juice; 1 Tbsp water; 1½ tsp mirin; 1 Tbsp green onion, sliced thin

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 29 reviews

If you're on the hunt for a delightful, vibrant snack or a quick lunch that feels both fancy and fuss-free, you absolutely need to try this Easy Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Recipe. It’s a gorgeous assembly of silky smoked salmon wrapped around a luscious lemon and green onion cream cheese, crisp cucumber, and creamy avocado, all kissed with the irresistible crunch and flavor of Everything But The Bagel seasoning. Within just 15 minutes, you can have a plate of elegant, fresh bites that taste like they belong at a chic brunch but come together effortlessly at home.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a layered dish on a white marbled surface, starting with a base layer of thinly sliced orange-pink smoked salmon spread out flat. On top of the salmon is a thick, even layer of white cream cheese mixed with green herbs, giving a speckled green and white look. In the center of the cream cheese layer, there is a row of bright green cucumber sticks placed vertically. On top of the cucumbers, there are several slices of yellow-green avocado laid out lengthwise, creating a fresh and colorful vertical stack. The whole setup is on a wooden board sprinkled with black and white sesame seeds and some red seasoning. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each element plays an essential role — from the creamy and tangy filling to the fresh crunch of cucumber and the richness of avocado. The seasoning adds the finishing aromatic touch that ties everything together.

8 oz. smoked salmon: Choose thinly sliced, high-quality salmon for the best texture and flavor.
½ cup whipped cream cheese: Whipped for easy spreading and a light, airy texture in the filling.
2 tablespoon green onion, thinly sliced: Adds a subtle onion bite that brightens the cream cheese mixture.
2 teaspoon lemon zest: Fresh lemon zest delivers a refreshing citrus spark that lifts the whole dish.
1 small Persian cucumber, sliced into thin strips: Crisp and cool, it provides a satisfying crunch inside the roll.
½ avocado, sliced into thin strips: Silky and creamy, it complements the salmon perfectly.
Everything But The Bagel Seasoning (EBTB): This seasoning blend adds a savory, nutty, and garlicky crunch to coat the outside of the salmon.
Optional Citrus Soy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce: Salty umami base for the dipping sauce.
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness to balance the soy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon water: Lightens the sauce for a perfect dip consistency.
- 1½ teaspoon mirin: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1 tablespoon green onion, sliced thin: Fresh and crisp, pops of flavor in the sauce.

How to Make Easy Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Citrus Soy Sauce (Optional)

To start, whisk together the soy sauce, lemon juice, water, mirin, and sliced green onion in a small bowl. Pop it in the refrigerator to chill and let the flavors meld while you make the salmon roll ups. This sauce is the perfect tangy-salty complement to the richness of the salmon.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the whipped cream cheese, thinly sliced green onions, and fresh lemon zest until smooth and combined. This luscious mixture is the heart of your roll ups, bringing a bright, creamy punch that balances the smoky salmon beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Layer

Lay a large piece of plastic wrap flat on your countertop. Generously sprinkle Everything But The Bagel seasoning across the plastic wrap, forming an even layer. Next, arrange the smoked salmon slices on top of the seasoning, overlapping slightly, to form a neat rectangular sheet. The seasoning will cling to the salmon’s exterior, adding irresistible texture and flavor.

Step 4: Add the Filling and Vegetables

Spread the prepared cream cheese evenly over the salmon rectangle. Then, lay thin strips of cucumber and avocado along the center of the salmon. These fresh, crisp vegetables add texture and cooling contrast within every bite — an essential balance to the rich cream cheese and salmon.

Step 5: Roll it Up

Using the edges of the plastic wrap, carefully lift and roll the salmon over the filling, continuing to roll tightly but gently until the entire mixture is wrapped up in a neat log. The plastic wrap will help keep everything compact and secure without breaking the delicate salmon.

Step 6: Chill and Slice

Place the wrapped salmon roll in the freezer for about 5 to 10 minutes to firm up slightly. This chilling step is key — it helps the roll hold together so you can slice cleanly without squishing the delicious filling inside. After chilling, remove the plastic wrap and slice the roll to your preferred thickness for serving.

How to Serve Easy Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Recipe

The image shows several pieces of sushi rolls placed on a white marbled surface. Each roll has three visible layers: a bright orange outer layer of salmon with sprinkled black and white sesame seeds and small red flakes, a middle creamy white layer of soft cheese, and an inner layer filled with pale yellow avocado slices and vibrant green cucumber strips. The rolls are arranged close together with some green herbs scattered around. A small white bowl with dark soy sauce and thin green onions is also visible at the bottom left corner of the image. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle additional Everything But The Bagel seasoning on top of your sliced roll ups to amplify the flavor and create an inviting appearance. You might also add a few sprigs of fresh dill or a tiny squeeze of lemon juice to elevate the brightness and complement the salmon’s smokiness.

Side Dishes

These roll ups taste fabulous alongside light, crisp sides like mixed greens dressed with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple seaweed salad. For something heartier, serve them with rye or pumpernickel toast points to add a rustic, earthy element that pairs perfectly with salmon’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress at a party or brunch, slice the roll ups thinly and arrange them on a platter with vibrant edible flowers and a bowl of the citrus soy sauce for dipping. Alternatively, place smaller slices atop crunchy crackers like Ritz or crispy sea salt crackers for easy finger-friendly appetizers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon roll ups will keep well when tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 24 hours for peak freshness and to keep the avocado from browning too much.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and cream cheese filling, freezing this dish isn’t recommended — the texture of cucumber and avocado will change once thawed. It’s best to prepare these roll ups fresh.

Reheating

This dish is best served cold or at room temperature and should not be reheated. The creamy filling and delicate smoked salmon shine most when enjoyed fresh and chilled.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of whipped?

Yes, you can use regular cream cheese, but whipping it first or softening it will make spreading easier and create a lighter texture in the filling.

Is it necessary to chill the roll before slicing?

Chilling the roll helps it hold its shape, making it easier to slice without squashing the ingredients. It also ensures neat, clean pieces for serving.

What if I don’t have Everything But The Bagel seasoning?

You can substitute with a simple mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, salt, and dried minced onion. The seasoning’s unique mix adds a ton of flavor, so a similar blend works well.

Can these roll ups be made vegan or dairy-free?

You can swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free or vegan spread, and opt for a plant-based smoked salmon alternative. The overall method stays the same, but the taste will vary slightly.

How long does it take to prepare this Easy Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Recipe?

The entire process, from prep to slicing, takes only about 15 minutes, making it a fantastic grab-and-go dish for busy days.

Final Thoughts

If you want a snack or light meal that feels special but comes together without any stress, this Easy Smoked Salmon Roll Ups Recipe is calling your name. It’s fresh, flavorful, and downright addictive. Whether for a quick lunch, an elegant appetizer, or a tasty treat with friends, these roll ups bring so much joy to your plate — give them a try and watch them quickly become a beloved favorite!