Eggplant Rollatini Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful Italian dish that’s both comforting and impressive, look no further than Eggplant Rollatini. These tender slices of eggplant are rolled around a creamy ricotta filling, then baked in a zesty marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella. It’s a classic recipe that combines the richness of cheese with the savory flavors of tomato and herbs, creating a dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

Eggplant Rollatini is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to enjoy vegetables in a satisfying and flavorful way. The eggplant slices are roasted to perfection, making them soft and pliable for easy rolling. The creamy ricotta filling adds a luxurious texture, while the marinara sauce and mozzarella provide that comforting, cheesy goodness everyone loves.

Eggplant Rollatini: A Todd Wilbur-Inspired Summary

Savor the flavors of Italy with Eggplant Rollatini, a delicious and elegant dish featuring tender eggplant slices stuffed with a creamy ricotta filling and baked in a flavorful marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal with a touch of sophistication. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, these rollatini are sure to become a favorite at your table.

A Family Favorite: An Exciting Story

I first tried Eggplant Rollatini at a cozy Italian restaurant, and I was immediately hooked. The combination of the creamy ricotta and rich marinara sauce was simply irresistible. When I decided to make it at home, I was thrilled to find that it was easier than I expected and just as delicious as I remembered. My family now looks forward to this dish as a special treat, and it’s often the star of our dinner parties. It’s always a hit with guests and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Why This Eggplant Rollatini?

1. Rich Flavor: Creamy ricotta filling and savory marinara sauce combine for a deliciously satisfying meal.
2. Elegant Presentation: Beautifully rolled eggplant slices create an impressive and appetizing dish.
3. Comfort Food: Perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and comforting flavors.
4. Vegetable Delight: A great way to enjoy eggplant and get more vegetables into your diet.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when ready to serve.

Tips

• Eggplant Slices: Ensure the eggplant slices are thin enough to roll easily but not so thin that they tear.
• Sauce Choice: Use your favorite marinara sauce or homemade sauce for the best flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the rollatini a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Substitutions and Variations

• Cheese Variations: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
• Sauce Variations: Use Alfredo sauce or pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Additions: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables into the ricotta filling for added texture and flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lower-Fat Option: Use low-fat ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• Reduced Sodium: Opt for low-sodium marinara sauce and cheeses to reduce sodium content.

And there you have it! Don’t forget to let us know how your Eggplant Rollatini turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen eggplant? Frozen eggplant can be used, but it may become more watery. Make sure to drain and pat dry before using.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store leftover Eggplant Rollatini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze Eggplant Rollatini? Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked rollatini. Thaw and bake as directed.
4. What can I serve with Eggplant Rollatini? Serve with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or pasta.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. Ensure the marinara sauce and cheeses used are also vegetarian-friendly.
6. How do I make this dish dairy-free? Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a plant-based ricotta substitute.
7. Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a different flavor.
8. How can I make the eggplant less oily? Use a paper towel to blot excess oil after roasting or consider grilling the eggplant slices for a lighter option.

Eggplant Rollatini Recipe

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Recipe by Alexandra Course: All Word Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

 

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

1

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• For the Eggplant:

• 2 large 2 eggplants, peeled and sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices

• Olive oil, for brushing

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• For the Ricotta Filling:

• 2 cups 2 ricotta cheese

• 1 cup 1 shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup 1/2 grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large 1 egg

• 1/4 cup 1/4 chopped fresh basil or parsley

• 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 cups 2 marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 cup 1/2 shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

• 1/4 cup 1/4 grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Directions

• Prepare the Eggplant:
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Brush the eggplant slices lightly with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
• Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and slightly golden. Allow to cool.
• Prepare the Ricotta Filling:
• In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped basil or parsley, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
• Assemble the Rollatini:
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
• Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture at one end of each eggplant slice and roll up tightly.
• Arrange the eggplant rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
• Spoon additional marinara sauce over the top of the rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
• Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Bake the Rollatini:
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is hot.
• Serve and Enjoy:
• Allow the Eggplant Rollatini to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley if desired.

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