Welcome to our mouthwatering world of cheesy Eggplant Rollatini! If you’re a fan of Italian comfort food, get ready to experience a dish that will satisfy your cravings for a hearty and comforting meal. Our Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini recipe features thin slices of eggplant wrapped around a deliciously cheesy filling, all roasted in marinara sauce until bubbly and irresistible. Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also healthy and easy to make, making it the perfect addition to your collection of easy and healthy eggplant recipes.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make this delicious cheesy Eggplant Rollatini recipe, you will need:
- Medium eggplant
- Kosher salt
- Marinara sauce
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Eggs
- Garlic cloves
- Fresh basil
- Toasted pine nuts
- Freshly ground black pepper
Start by slicing the eggplant into thin slices.
Note: This recipe is suitable for those looking for Italian eggplant recipes, gluten-free eggplant recipes, and low carb eggplant recipes.
Preparation:
To prepare the eggplant slices:
- Slice the eggplants thinly.
- Place the slices in a colander and sprinkle them with kosher salt.
- Let the slices sweat for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Rinse the slices and pat them dry with a clean towel.
For the filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic cloves, chopped fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
Now, it’s time to assemble the Eggplant Rollatini:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a slice of eggplant on a cutting board and spoon a generous amount of the ricotta filling onto the large end of the slice.
- Roll the eggplant slice with the filling and place it seam side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat the process with the remaining eggplant slices and filling.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce on top of the rolled eggplant.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
How to Make Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini
To create this delicious cheesy Eggplant Rollatini recipe, follow these simple steps:
- Sweat the eggplant slices: Begin by sprinkling kosher salt on the eggplant slices. Let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures that the eggplant becomes tender and removes any potential bitterness.
- Roast or cook the eggplant: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet or cook them in a skillet with some olive oil over medium heat until they become soft and pliable. This process will make the eggplant slices more malleable for rolling.
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, minced garlic, chopped basil, toasted pine nuts, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Roll the eggplant: Take a slice of roasted eggplant and place it on a cutting board. Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto the wider end of the slice. Gently roll up the eggplant, starting from the filling end. Repeat this process for all the eggplant slices and filling.
- Assemble and bake: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the rolled eggplant seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce on top, covering the eggplant rolls. Sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the rolls: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This cheesy Eggplant Rollatini recipe is a delightful appetizer or side dish that will impress your guests with its bold flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it as a snack, these rolls are sure to be a hit!
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy Eggplant Rollatini recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect as a main course, side dish, or even an appetizer for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this mouthwatering dish:
Main Course:
Pair the Eggplant Rollatini with a side of pasta and a fresh salad for a satisfying and complete dinner. The combination of the creamy and cheesy filling with the tender eggplant and tangy marinara sauce creates a harmonious and flavorful meal.
Side Dish:
Serve the Eggplant Rollatini alongside roasted vegetables or grilled chicken for a well-rounded and nutritious meal. The rich flavors of the dish complement other dishes perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Appetizer or Party Dish:
Transform the Eggplant Rollatini into a crowd-pleasing appetizer by slicing it into smaller portions. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an elegant presentation. Your guests will be delighted by this tasty vegetarian option.
The creamy and cheesy filling combined with the tender and flavorful eggplant will surely impress your guests, leaving them craving for more. Whether you serve it as a main course, side dish, or appetizer, the Eggplant Rollatini is a versatile and satisfying dish that will please both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
| Presentation Suggestions | Recommended Pairings |
|---|---|
| Arrange the Eggplant Rollatini slices neatly on a platter. | Pasta, such as spaghetti or penne |
| Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a pop of color. | A green salad with balsamic vinaigrette |
| For a party, create a beautiful display with a variety of appetizers. | Bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil |
These serving suggestions will enhance the enjoyment of the Eggplant Rollatini recipe and allow you to savor its delicious flavors in different ways. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this versatile dish is sure to be a hit!
More Eggplant Recipes to Try
If you enjoy cooking with eggplants, there are many more delicious recipes to try. Expand your culinary repertoire with these healthy, easy, and delicious eggplant recipes:
Eggplant Parmigiana
This classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser. Layers of breaded and fried eggplant, marinara sauce, and cheese create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of pasta for a complete dinner.
Eggplant Lasagna
For a lighter twist on traditional lasagna, replace the pasta with layers of roasted eggplant. The result is a low-carb and gluten-free dish that is just as delicious and comforting.
Eggplant Involtini
Involtini are thinly sliced eggplant rolls filled with a variety of ingredients. Try stuffing them with ricotta cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful appetizer or vegetarian main course.
Eggplant Curry
If you’re craving something exotic, try making eggplant curry. Simmered in a flavorful blend of spices, coconut milk, and tomatoes, eggplant becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
Don’t limit yourself to just one recipe—explore the possibilities and discover new ways to enjoy this nutritious and versatile vegetable.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini
To make the best cheesy Eggplant Rollatini, it’s important to follow a few tips and tricks that will elevate the flavors and textures of this dish. Here are some expert suggestions to help you create the perfect cheesy Eggplant Rollatini:
1. Choose Fresh and Firm Eggplants
When selecting eggplants for this recipe, opt for fresh and firm ones. Look for eggplants that have smooth, shiny skin and feel heavy for their size. Fresh eggplants will have a mild, slightly sweet taste and a firm texture, which is ideal for this dish.
2. Sweat the Eggplant Slices
Before cooking the eggplant slices, it’s essential to sweat them to remove any bitterness and excess moisture. Sprinkle kosher salt on both sides of the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This process draws out the moisture, making the eggplant less watery and more flavorful.
3. Add Crunch and Flavor with Pine Nuts
To enhance the texture and add a delicious crunch to your cheesy Eggplant Rollatini, include toasted pine nuts in the filling. These tiny nuts provide a nutty flavor and add an extra layer of complexity to the dish. Simply toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet until golden brown before adding them to the filling mixture.
4. Consider Homemade or High-Quality Store-Bought Marinara Sauce
While preparing homemade marinara sauce from scratch can take some time, it will undoubtedly enhance the overall taste of your cheesy Eggplant Rollatini. However, if you’re short on time, you can use a high-quality store-bought marinara sauce like Rao’s. Look for one with natural ingredients and a rich tomato flavor to complement the dish.
5. Finish with Fresh Basil
Before serving your cheesy Eggplant Rollatini, garnish it with fresh basil leaves. The vibrant green color and aromatic flavor of basil will add a burst of freshness to the dish and elevate its visual appeal. Tear the basil leaves into small pieces or chop them finely for even distribution.
Conclusion
This cheesy Eggplant Rollatini recipe combines the perfect blend of flavors and textures to create a truly satisfying dish. The tender eggplant, creamy and cheesy filling, and tangy marinara sauce come together harmoniously, resulting in a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re a vegetarian seeking a delicious meatless option or simply a fan of eggplant, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Preparing this Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini is also remarkably easy, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and seasoned cooks. With a few simple steps, you can have a mouthwatering and wholesome meal on your table in no time. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it as a tasty main course or a delightful side dish that complements a wide range of Italian favorites.
If you’re searching for healthy eggplant recipes that don’t compromise on flavor, look no further. This recipe delivers an abundance of nutritional benefits while satisfying your cravings. Eggplants are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a well-rounded and nourishing meal.
So go ahead and give this Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed winner that will impress your taste buds and bring joy to your dining table. Indulge in this delicious and healthy dish, and discover why it has become a beloved favorite for people who appreciate easy, tasty, and satisfying eggplant recipes.
FAQ
What is the recipe for Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini?
The recipe for Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini features thin slices of eggplant wrapped around a cheesy filling and roasted in marinara sauce. Full instructions can be found in the article above.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free marinara sauce and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it does not contain any meat.
Are there any other eggplant recipes I can try?
Yes, there are many other delicious eggplant recipes you can try, such as eggplant parmigiana, eggplant lasagna, eggplant involtini, and eggplant curry. Explore the possibilities and discover new ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
Can I serve this dish as an appetizer?
Yes, Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini can be served as an appetizer or a party dish. It is a great addition to any gathering or potluck.
How do I ensure the eggplant is cooked properly?
To ensure the eggplant is cooked properly, you can roast or cook the slices in a skillet until they are softened before rolling them with the filling. This will help prevent them from being too firm or undercooked.
What can I serve with Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini?
Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini pairs well with a variety of Italian meals and can be accompanied by pasta and a salad for a complete dinner.
How do I choose the best eggplant for this recipe?
When choosing eggplants for this recipe, look for ones that are fresh and firm. This will ensure that they cook properly and have a good texture.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble and bake the Eggplant Rollatini.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Cheesy Eggplant Rollatini. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer. To reheat, place the frozen rollatini in a baking dish and bake in the oven until warmed through.
