Eggplant Parmesan Rollatini Savory and Simple Recipe

Looking for a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor? You’ll love this Eggplant Parmesan Rollatini recipe. It's simple to make, perfect for any meal, and impresses everyone at the table. I’ll guide you through prepping the eggplants, making a rich marinara, and creating a cheesy filling that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of rollatini and elevate your dinner tonight!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

For Eggplant Parmesan Rollatini, you will need:

- 2 large eggplants

- 1 cup ricotta cheese

- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1 large egg

- 2 cups marinara sauce

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh basil leaves for garnish

- Olive oil for brushing

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

You can change some ingredients to suit your taste:

- Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option.

- Use vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free meal.

- Try fresh herbs instead of dried for a burst of flavor.

- Replace marinara sauce with pesto for a new twist.

Nutritional Information

This dish serves about six people. Here’s an estimate of the nutrition per serving:

- Calories: 350

- Protein: 15g

- Carbohydrates: 30g

- Fat: 20g

- Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 6g

This information can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used. Always check labels for exact numbers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Eggplants

To start, you need two large eggplants. Slice them lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Place the slices on a baking sheet. Generously sprinkle salt over the eggplant. This helps pull out moisture and bitterness. Let them rest for about 30 minutes. After that, rinse each slice under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is key to keeping them from being soggy. Finally, lightly brush both sides with olive oil.

Making the Marinara Sauce

Next, we need a simple marinara sauce. In a skillet, add a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in two cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute. Then, add one cup of marinara sauce. Stir it well and let it simmer for five minutes. Once it's done, remove it from heat. This sauce will add great flavor to your rollatini.

Preparing the Cheese Filling

Now, let’s make the cheese filling. In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Crack in one large egg, then add one teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and pepper! Mix everything until smooth. This filling is creamy and full of flavor.

Assembling the Rollatini

It's time to assemble! Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Take one eggplant slice and place a generous spoonful of cheese filling at one end. Carefully roll it up tightly, sealing the filling inside. Place the roll seam-side down in the dish. Repeat this with all the eggplant slices and filling. It’s a fun process, and soon you’ll have a dish full of delicious rollatini!

Baking Instructions

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown. Once done, let the rollatini cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. This adds a nice color and flavor!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfectly Cooked Eggplants

To get the best eggplants, slice them evenly. Aim for 1/4-inch thick slices. This helps them cook well. Sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit for 30 minutes. This step removes moisture and bitterness. Rinse each slice to wash off the salt. Pat them dry to avoid sogginess. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil. This adds flavor and helps with browning.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings

Seasonings make a big difference in flavor. Use fresh garlic to give a nice kick. Add dried oregano and basil for a classic taste. Mix these herbs into your cheese filling for extra flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. Taste your filling before you roll it up. Adjust as needed to suit your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

For presentation, serve the rollatini on plates. Spoon extra marinara sauce around each piece. This adds color and makes it look fancy. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of green. You can pair it with a side salad or garlic bread. This meal is great for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy every bite!

Variations

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

For a vegetarian twist, keep the ricotta and mozzarella. You can also swap the egg for a flaxseed mixture. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For a vegan option, use cashew cheese or tofu blended with nutritional yeast.

Using Different Cheeses

You can mix up the cheeses for fun flavors. Try using goat cheese for a tangy taste. Feta cheese adds a salty kick. You can also use vegan cheese if you want to keep it plant-based. Just make sure it melts well in the oven.

Adding Vegetables or Meats

Want more crunch? Add sliced zucchini or bell peppers inside the rollatini. Spinach also works great. If you like meat, try adding cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese filling. This adds protein and makes the dish heartier.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After you enjoy your Eggplant Parmesan Rollatini, store leftovers properly. Let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavors fresh.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat your rollatini, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rollatini in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. This method keeps the cheese melty and the eggplant tender.

Freezing the Rollatini

You can freeze the rollatini to enjoy later. First, assemble it but don’t bake it. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze it for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. Enjoy a delicious meal anytime!

FAQs

Can I prepare Eggplant Parmesan Rollatini ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rollatini ahead. Assemble the rollatini and place them in the baking dish. Cover the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they heat through.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you want a substitute for ricotta cheese, try cottage cheese. Blend it to make it smoother. You can also use goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Cream cheese can work too, giving a rich and creamy texture.

How do I know when my rollatini is done baking?

Check your rollatini after 40 minutes of baking. The top should be golden brown and bubbly. You can insert a knife in the center. If it comes out hot, they are ready to eat.

Can I make this a gluten-free recipe?

Yes, you can easily make the rollatini gluten-free. Just ensure your marinara sauce does not contain gluten. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you want extra texture in the filling.

This blog post covered how to make Eggplant Parmesan Rollatini. We went through the list of ingredients and optional swaps. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you prep and bake delicious rollatini.

You learned tips for perfect eggplants and flavor boosts. I also included variations like vegetarian options and cheese swaps. Finally, I explained how to store leftovers and answered common questions.

Now, you can create this tasty dish with confidence. Enjoy making your own rollatini soon!