Classic Eggplant Rollatini Recipe
Looking for a comforting Italian dish that will impress your guests? This Eggplant Rollatini Recipe is the perfect choice! With tender eggplant slices filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
When you bite into these rollatini, you’re greeted with a burst of cheesy goodness complemented by a rich tomato sauce. It’s like a warm embrace on your plate, and the best part is that it’s relatively simple to make, even for those who are new to cooking.
This Eggplant Rollatini Recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and satisfying way. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more veggies into your meals, this dish checks all the boxes.
Overview of Eggplant Rollatini
Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful Italian dish that showcases thin slices of eggplant rolled around a creamy ricotta filling, baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce. This recipe offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that make it suitable for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
The combination of tender eggplant, savory cheese, and zesty tomato sauce captures the essence of Italian cuisine. With its comforting profile, this dish is sure to impress anyone who is lucky enough to share a meal with you.
Ingredients that Shine
The key ingredients in the Eggplant Rollatini Recipe contribute to its delicious outcome. Fresh eggplants, sliced thinly, serve as the perfect wrap for the creamy ricotta filling. The addition of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses adds a rich, cheesy flavor that is irresistible.
Using a mixture of herbs and spices, such as garlic powder and fresh basil, enhances the overall taste. The marinara sauce provides moisture and depth, making each bite a delightful experience. Don’t forget the olive oil for roasting the eggplant slices, ensuring they become tender and flavorful.
Preparation Steps
Preparing Eggplant Rollatini is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. Start by preheating the oven and roasting the eggplant slices until they are slightly softened. This step is critical for making the rolls easier to handle.
Next, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and spices to create the filling. Spreading this mixture onto each eggplant slice before rolling is essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Once filled, the rolls are placed in a baking dish, covered with marinara sauce, and topped with cheese before baking.
Baking to Perfection
Baking is where the magic happens. The Eggplant Rollatini needs to be covered and baked for a period to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Removing the foil halfway through ensures the cheese gets bubbly and golden, adding an appealing aesthetic to the dish.
Allow the rollatini to cool slightly after baking; this enhances the flavors and makes serving easier. The delightful aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first bite.
Serving Suggestions
Eggplant Rollatini makes for a stunning centerpiece on any table. To enhance the dining experience, consider serving it alongside a slice of garlic bread and a fresh salad. The combination of flavors will create a well-rounded meal that delights the palate.
Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also freshens the dish with its aromatic essence. This recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family, showcasing the warmth and love of home-cooked Italian food.
Nutritional Insights
For those mindful of their dietary choices, Eggplant Rollatini offers a satisfying dish without compromising on flavor. With approximately 320 calories per serving, it provides a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables while indulging in a comforting meal. Whether you’re serving it on a special occasion or a regular weeknight dinner, it’s a recipe that caters to both taste and nutrition.
Delicious and Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini
This Eggplant Rollatini is a flavorful dish featuring thinly sliced eggplant rolled around a creamy ricotta filling, then baked in a rich marinara sauce. It’s savory, cheesy, and full of Italian flair, making it a delightful recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4 inch thick slices
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Eggplant: Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes until slightly softened. Let them cool.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the Eggplant: Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto each eggplant slice and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled eggplant seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Add Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the eggplant rolls, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 23g