Eggplant Rollatini Recipe

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Eggplant Rollatini is a delicious Italian dish featuring thinly sliced, roasted eggplant rolled around a savory filling of ricotta cheese, herbs, and marinara sauce. This recipe is a great way to enjoy eggplant in a flavorful and satisfying way.

The preparation involves roasting the eggplant slices, preparing the filling, and assembling the rolls before baking. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Table of Contents

Visual Appeal of Eggplant Rollatini

The presentation of eggplant rollatini is a feast for the eyes. Golden-brown roasted eggplant rolls are elegantly arranged, showcasing their inviting texture. Each roll, filled with creamy ricotta cheese, is topped with a vibrant marinara sauce and a generous layer of melted mozzarella, creating an enticing contrast of colors.

Fresh basil leaves add a touch of green, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal while also contributing a burst of freshness. The rustic wooden table setting further complements the Italian theme, making it a perfect centerpiece for any dining occasion.

Flavor Profile

This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors that dance on the palate.

The roasted eggplant provides a subtle earthiness, while the ricotta filling introduces a creamy richness that balances beautifully with the tangy marinara sauce.

Melted mozzarella adds a comforting, gooey texture that ties all the elements together.

Herbs like basil and garlic powder infuse the dish with aromatic notes, elevating the overall taste experience.

Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors, making it a satisfying choice for both eggplant lovers and newcomers alike.

Preparation Steps

Creating eggplant rollatini involves a few straightforward steps that yield impressive results.

First, the eggplant slices are roasted until tender, enhancing their natural sweetness.

While the eggplant cools, a creamy filling is prepared by mixing ricotta cheese with mozzarella, Parmesan, and seasonings.

Assembling the rolls is a simple yet rewarding process.

Each slice is filled, rolled, and placed in a baking dish, creating a beautiful arrangement ready for the oven.

A final layer of marinara sauce and cheese ensures a bubbly, golden finish once baked.

Serving Suggestions

Eggplant rollatini is versatile and can be served in various ways.

For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad or garlic bread to complement the rich flavors.

A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the presentation and taste.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, bringing a touch of Italian cuisine to the table.

Leftovers can be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.

Nutritional Benefits

Eggplant rollatini not only pleases the palate but also offers nutritional benefits.

Eggplant is low in calories and packed with fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

The addition of ricotta and mozzarella provides a good source of protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced meal.

With each serving, you can enjoy a satisfying dish that supports your nutritional goals while indulging in comforting flavors.

This makes eggplant rollatini a guilt-free option for any occasion.

Final Touches

To elevate the dining experience, consider garnishing the dish with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving.

This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful finishing touch to the presentation.

Whether enjoyed at a family dinner or a festive gathering, eggplant rollatini is sure to impress with its delicious taste and stunning appearance.

It’s a dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine, making it a beloved favorite for many.

Classic Eggplant Rollatini Recipe

This Eggplant Rollatini is made with tender roasted eggplant filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. The dish takes about 1 hour and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4 inch thick slices
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
2 cups marinara sauce, divided
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Eggplant: Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender.
Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assemble Rolls: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a roasted eggplant slice, place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture at one end, and roll it up. Place the roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining slices.
Top with Sauce and Cheese: Once all rolls are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional basil if desired.