Easy Salmon Egg Rolls Recipe
Imagine biting into a golden, crispy wrapper that gives way to tender, flaky salmon mixed with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. These salmon egg rolls are the perfect fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and Western comfort food that will have your family asking for seconds every single time
Did you know that egg rolls were actually invented in America? This twist on the classic appetizer combines the heart-healthy benefits of salmon with the satisfying crunch everyone loves, making it both nutritious and irresistible.
Just like our popular shrimp spring rolls, these salmon egg rolls are surprisingly simple to make and ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready to impress your guests with this restaurant-quality appetizer that’s easier than you think!
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What are Salmon Egg Rolls?
Ever wondered why we call them “egg rolls” when most recipes don’t even contain eggs? The name actually comes from the golden, egg-like color of the wrapper when fried to perfection! These crispy bundles of joy are essentially fresh salmon, vegetables, and seasonings wrapped in a thin pastry and fried until golden brown.
As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these salmon egg rolls are guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create some magic in the kitchen?
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Egg Roll Recipe
Fresh, Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home These salmon egg rolls deliver that perfect combination of crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior that you’d expect from your favorite Asian restaurant. The salmon stays incredibly moist while the vegetables add a delightful crunch that creates the perfect textural contrast in every bite.
Budget-Friendly Gourmet Experience Making salmon egg rolls at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at restaurants. A single pound of salmon can create enough filling for 12-15 egg rolls, feeding your entire family for less than the cost of ordering appetizers for two people.
Customizable and Versatile The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can adjust the vegetables, add different herbs, or even incorporate cream cheese for extra richness. Unlike our salmon patties recipe, these egg rolls can be made ahead and frozen, making them perfect for entertaining or quick weeknight dinners.
Ready to transform simple ingredients into an extraordinary appetizer that will become your new go-to party favorite?
How to Make Salmon Egg Rolls
Quick Overview
These salmon egg rolls are incredibly easy to make and deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. The key to success lies in properly seasoning the salmon filling and achieving that perfect golden-brown crispiness.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people (makes 12-15 egg rolls)
Key Ingredients for Salmon Egg Rolls
For the Filling:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and diced
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 12-15 egg roll wrappers
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 3 cups)
For Serving:
- Sweet and sour sauce
- Soy sauce with chili oil
- Fresh lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Filling
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced salmon and cook for 3-4 minutes until just cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside to cool. The salmon should be slightly undercooked as it will finish cooking when the egg rolls are fried.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cabbage and carrots, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled salmon, sautéed vegetables, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix carefully to avoid breaking up the salmon too much. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you (diamond shape). Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners. Roll tightly toward the top corner, sealing the edge with beaten egg.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or wok, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to completely submerge the egg rolls. Test the temperature by dropping in a small piece of wrapper – it should sizzle immediately.
Step 6: Fry the Egg Rolls
Carefully place 3-4 egg rolls in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until golden brown on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Serve the salmon egg rolls hot with your choice of dipping sauces. The contrast between the crispy exterior and warm, flavorful filling is best enjoyed immediately after frying.
What to Serve Salmon Egg Rolls With
Asian-Inspired Sides: Pair these egg rolls with steamed jasmine rice, vegetable fried rice, or Asian cucumber salad for a complete meal. The fresh, crisp vegetables help balance the richness of the fried egg rolls.
Dipping Sauce Variety: Offer multiple dipping options including sweet and sour sauce, spicy mayo, soy-ginger dipping sauce, or Vietnamese nuoc cham. Each sauce brings out different flavors in the salmon filling.
Fresh Accompaniments: Serve alongside fresh lettuce cups, pickled vegetables, or a light Asian slaw. These fresh elements provide a nice contrast to the warm, crispy egg rolls and help cleanse the palate between bites.
Top Tips for Perfecting Salmon Egg Rolls
Choosing the Right Salmon
Use fresh salmon fillets rather than frozen for the best texture and flavor. Skin-on fillets are often more affordable, and you can easily remove the skin yourself. Atlantic or King salmon work beautifully, but even more budget-friendly options like Coho salmon deliver excellent results.
Wrapper Handling Secrets
Keep egg roll wrappers covered with a damp towel while working to prevent them from drying out. If wrappers become too dry, they’ll crack when rolling. Room temperature wrappers are easier to work with than cold ones straight from the refrigerator.
Oil Temperature Control
Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F for perfectly crispy egg rolls. Too low, and they’ll absorb oil and become greasy. Too high, and the outside burns before the filling heats through. Use a thermometer for best results.
Make-Ahead Strategy
Assemble egg rolls up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate covered. This actually helps them hold their shape better during frying. You can also freeze assembled egg rolls for up to 3 months – fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to cooking time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover cooked egg rolls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Place paper towels between layers to absorb excess moisture and maintain crispiness.
Freezing Instructions: Freeze uncooked assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months. Cooked egg rolls can also be frozen but may lose some crispiness when reheated.
Reheating Methods: For best results, reheat in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving as this makes the wrapper soggy. An air fryer works excellently for reheating – 375°F for 3-4 minutes gives you that just-fried crispiness.
Meal Prep Tips: Prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead and store refrigerated. This actually improves the flavors as the ingredients have time to meld together. Assemble and fry just before serving for optimal texture.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Egg Roll (1 piece) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 850mg |
Nutritional values are approximate and based on standard ingredients
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake salmon egg rolls instead of frying?
Yes! Brush assembled egg rolls with oil and bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through. While they won’t be quite as crispy as fried versions, they’re still delicious and much healthier.
What’s the best salmon to use for egg rolls?
Fresh Atlantic or King salmon fillets work best due to their rich flavor and flaky texture. Avoid using canned salmon as it’s too soft and won’t hold up well in the filling.
Can I make these egg rolls gluten-free?
Traditional egg roll wrappers contain gluten, but you can substitute with rice paper wrappers for a gluten-free version. The rolling technique is slightly different, but the results are equally delicious.
How do I prevent egg rolls from exploding while frying?
Don’t overfill the wrappers, and make sure they’re sealed properly with beaten egg. Also, ensure the oil temperature isn’t too high, which can cause rapid expansion and bursting.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
While fresh is preferred, you can use thawed frozen salmon. Just make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.
What vegetables work best in salmon egg rolls?
Cabbage and carrots are classic, but you can also use bean sprouts, bell peppers, mushrooms, or water chestnuts. Just make sure vegetables are cut small and aren’t too watery.
How far ahead can I prepare the filling?
The salmon filling can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors develop and makes assembly easier.
Why are my egg rolls soggy?
Soggy egg rolls usually result from oil that’s not hot enough or overcrowding the pot. Make sure oil reaches 350°F and don’t fry too many at once.
Recipe Variations and Creative Twists
Cream Cheese Addition: Add 4 oz softened cream cheese to the filling for extra richness and a Philadelphia roll-inspired flavor. This creates an incredibly creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the salmon.
Spicy Salmon Version: Incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce into the filling for heat lovers. You can also add diced jalapeños for extra kick and texture.
Herb-Crusted Variation: Mix chopped fresh dill, cilantro, or parsley into the filling for a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.
Asian Fusion Style: Add water chestnuts for crunch, shiitake mushrooms for umami depth, and a touch of hoisin sauce for sweetness. This creates a more complex flavor profile.
These salmon egg rolls represent the perfect fusion of healthy eating and indulgent flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a new family favorite, or wanting to impress with your cooking skills, this recipe delivers every time. The combination of flaky salmon, crisp vegetables, and that satisfying golden wrapper creates an appetizer that’s both sophisticated and completely approachable. Give this recipe a try, and watch as it becomes your new go-to crowd-pleaser!