Looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s secretly simple and incredibly healthy? You’ve found it! These Zucchini Salmon Roll-Ups are the perfect bite-sized treat. Thin ribbons of fresh zucchini are wrapped around a creamy, zesty salmon and avocado filling, creating a flavor-packed morsel that’s naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for parties, a light lunch, or a sophisticated snack.
Ingredients
• 2 medium zucchini
• 1 can (5 oz / 142g) pink or red salmon, drained
• 1 small avocado, pitted and mashed
• 2 tbsp / 30ml mayonnaise
• 1 small chili pepper, finely minced
• 3 tsp / 15ml lime juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Paprika or cayenne pepper, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini: Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice the zucchini thinly into long, wide ribbons.
2. Create the Filling: In a medium bowl, flake the drained salmon with a fork. Add the mashed avocado, mayonnaise, minced chili pepper, and lime juice. Mix until everything is well combined.
3. Season: Season the salmon mixture to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Assemble the Rolls: Lay a zucchini ribbon flat on your work surface. Place a small spoonful of the salmon mixture at one end of the ribbon.
5. Roll and Secure: Gently roll the zucchini up from the filling end. If needed, secure the roll with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling.
6. Garnish and Serve: Arrange the finished roll-ups on a serving platter, garnish with a light dusting of paprika or cayenne pepper, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
• Serves: 2-3
• Preparation time: 35 minutes
• Calories per serving: 51
• Fat: 3.7g
• Carbohydrate: 3.0g
• Dietary Fiber: 1.2g
• Net Carbs: 1.8g
• Protein: 2.3g
Pro Tips
• For crisper zucchini ribbons, lightly salt them and let them sit for 10 minutes. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before rolling.
• Easily swap the protein. Canned tuna, crab meat, or even finely shredded chicken work wonderfully as a substitute for salmon.
• Add extra flavor to the filling with fresh herbs like dill or chives, or add a briny kick with a teaspoon of capers.
• To make ahead, prepare the filling and zucchini ribbons separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.
FAQ
Q: Are Zucchini Salmon Roll-Ups keto-friendly
A: Yes, these Zucchini Salmon Roll-Ups are perfect for a keto diet. They are naturally low-carb, with only 1.8g of net carbs per serving.
Q: How do I stop the zucchini rolls from getting soggy
A: To prevent sogginess, prepare the zucchini ribbons and the salmon filling separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge and assemble the roll-ups just before you plan to serve them.
Q: Can I use a different protein instead of salmon
A: Absolutely. This recipe is very versatile. You can easily substitute the canned salmon with canned tuna, crab meat, or even finely shredded chicken for a different flavor.
Q: What is the best way to slice zucchini for roll-ups
A: For the best results, use a vegetable peeler or a mandoline slicer. This will help you create the thin, long, and wide ribbons needed to easily wrap the filling.
