Irresistible Eggplant Rollatini Recipe for Cozy Dinners

There’s something magical about Eggplant Rollatini that sends your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Picture this: tender slices of eggplant, delicately rolled with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella, enveloped in a rich marinara sauce that wafts through the air like a warm hug. creamy cauliflower puree It’s one of those dishes that instantly transforms any dinner into a cozy gathering, whether it’s a chilly evening or a summer soirée.

This dish isn’t just about the flavors; it’s steeped in memories. I recall the first time I attempted Eggplant Rollatini for my family. My kitchen was transformed into a mini Italian bistro, complete with flour dusted on my apron and a soundtrack of sizzling garlic. herb-infused focaccia muffins The way my loved ones’ eyes lit up with every bite remains etched in my memory—a true testament to the power of good food shared among family.

I’ll never forget the time my aunt brought over her famous Eggplant Rollatini to our family reunion. Everyone went wild, fighting over the last piece! For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Eggplants: Choose firm, glossy eggplants for optimal texture; look for those without blemishes.
• Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole-milk ricotta for creaminess; it makes the filling irresistibly rich.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully; feel free to use low-moisture mozzarella if you prefer.
• Marinara Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought—just ensure it’s packed with flavor for the best results.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan to sprinkle on top; it adds a savory finish to your dish.
• Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves enhances flavor and adds a pop of color to your rollatini.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential—always season to taste!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Eggplant: Start by slicing the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips—about 1/4 inch thick works best. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.

Cook the Eggplant Strips: Rinse off excess salt and pat dry. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the eggplant until golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side.

Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, salt, and pepper until well blended. It’s going to smell fantastic!

Assemble Your Rollatini: Take each cooked eggplant slice and place about two tablespoons of filling at one end. Roll it up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce.

Add Sauce and Cheese Topping: Pour more marinara sauce over the assembled rollatini and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. This will create that glorious cheesy crust we all love!

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Now you have delicious Eggplant Rollatini ready to enjoy! Serve hot alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad while savoring every last bite of this comforting classic. delicious Caprese dip recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing the eggplant thinly and salting it to draw out moisture. While the eggplant sits, prepare your filling and sauce to maximize efficiency and flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ricotta cheese for cottage cheese or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover eggplant rollatini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Cooking my first eggplant rollatini was an adventure! I remember my friends’ faces lighting up when they took their first bite—it was pure joy! light cucumber salad.

FAQ

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese in eggplant rollatini?

Cottage cheese or cream cheese works well as a substitute for ricotta cheese.

Can I prepare eggplant rollatini ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it beforehand and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

You can use tofu or cashew cream combined with nutritional yeast as a vegan alternative.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Eggplant Rollatini

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (approximately two rollatini per serving) 1x

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Description

Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful Italian dish that features tender eggplant slices rolled around a creamy ricotta filling, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This comforting meal is perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. With its rich flavors and vibrant presentation, Eggplant Rollatini is sure to impress your guests while providing a satisfying and guilt-free dining experience.

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Ingredients

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• 2 medium eggplants (about 1 lb total)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

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Instructions

1. Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick strips. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. Rinse the eggplant slices, pat dry, and sauté in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes per side).
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Place about two tablespoons of filling at one end of each eggplant slice and roll tightly. Arrange seam-side down in a baking dish with marinara sauce.
5. Top with remaining marinara and mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 rollatini (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 45mg