Delicious Eggplant Rollatini with ricotta and marinara sauce

Why Make This Recipe

Eggplant Rollatini is a tasty and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines layers of soft eggplant with a rich ricotta and mozzarella filling, all baked in marinara sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian meal or a comforting family dinner, Eggplant Rollatini is a winner!

How to Make Eggplant Rollatini

Ingredients

2 large eggplants
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup marinara sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill or bake until slightly softened.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Take an eggplant strip, fill it with the ricotta mixture, and roll it up. Place seam-side down in the dish.
Repeat with all eggplant strips, then top with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbling and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to Serve Eggplant Rollatini

Eggplant Rollatini is best served hot, straight from the oven. You can place each rollatini on a plate and drizzle some extra marinara sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

How to Store Eggplant Rollatini

To store leftovers, let the Eggplant Rollatini cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry.

Tips to Make Eggplant Rollatini

Make sure to slice the eggplants thinly so they roll easily.
You can add other vegetables to the ricotta filling, like spinach or mushrooms.
For extra flavor, try adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the cheese mixture.

Variation

You can easily customize this dish by using different cheeses. Try adding goat cheese or substituting the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter version. You can also switch up the marinara sauce for pesto for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make Eggplant Rollatini in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Is Eggplant Rollatini gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour or bread.

Can I freeze Eggplant Rollatini?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer.