Eggplant rollatini is a mouthwatering Italian dish that combines tender slices of eggplant with a flavorful filling, all wrapped up and baked to perfection. This delightful recipe is a favorite among eggplant lovers and those seeking a satisfying vegetarian dish. The unique qualities of eggplant shine through as it absorbs the delicious flavors of the filling and marinara sauce. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of creamy cheese, tangy sauce, and tender eggplant. Yum!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- Salt, for seasoning
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese plus more for sprinkling on top
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, minced garlic, and egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Take a spoonful of the cheese mixture and spread it onto each eggplant slice. Roll up the slices and place them seam side down in a baking dish.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the eggplant rollatini, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle some extra mozzarella cheese on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the eggplant is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the rollatini cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
Select eggplants that are firm and shiny, with smooth skin and no blemishes. This ensures a better texture and flavor in the dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning of the filling to your taste by adding herbs or spices such as oregano or red pepper flakes. For a slightly richer flavor, mix some sautéed onions or garlic into the cheese mixture. Serve the eggplant rollatini with a side of pasta or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a delicious next-day lunch or dinner. Enjoy!
*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
