Name: Eggplant Rolatini
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplants (about 1½ pounds each, peeled and each cut lengthwise into 4 thin slices); 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 3 medium garlic cloves (minced); 1 cup fat free ricotta cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; ¾ teaspoon dried oregano; 1¼ cups tomato basil marinara sauce ((no more than 2g fat per serving)); ⅓ cup shredded fontina or mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish like Eggplant Rolatini. I remember the first time I made it; I had just moved into my new apartment, and the kitchen was still filled with the smell of fresh paint rather than delicious food. I wanted to make something special to celebrate this new chapter in my life. With a couple of beautiful eggplants from the farmer’s market and some classic Italian ingredients, I dove into the process with enthusiasm. Each slice of eggplant was not just a vegetable; it was a canvas for a warm, cheesy filling that whispered promises of happiness and nourishment. As I rolled them up, I could almost hear the laughter of friends gathered around my table, enjoying the fruits of my labor. Cooking is so much more than just preparing food; it’s about creating moments and memories, and that’s the essence of Eggplant Rolatini. What’s even better is how this dish brings people together, making it perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals. The layers of flavor and texture, from the crispy, baked eggplant to the creamy filling and zesty marinara, create a symphony on your palate. Trust me; you won’t want to miss trying this dish.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
290 kcal

Protein:
15 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Peeler, Grater, Baking Sheet, Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

Why This Eggplant Rolatini Is So Good

It’s Vegetarian and Nutritious

The first reason I absolutely love Eggplant Rolatini is its vegetarian nature. It’s packed with nutrients that make it a healthy option on any dinner table. The star ingredient, eggplant, is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, the use of low-fat ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture without the heavy calories.

Endless Customization

Another reason to adore this dish is the endless customization it allows. You can easily switch up the filling based on your preferences. Want to throw in some spinach or mushrooms? Go for it! The flexibility of Eggplant Rolatini means you can get creative while still keeping it delicious.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

If you’re someone who enjoys meal prepping, this recipe is a dream come true. You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat. This makes it not only a fantastic weeknight dinner option but also great for impressing guests with minimal last-minute effort.

Comfort Food at Its Best

Let’s not forget how comforting it is. The warm, gooey cheese combined with the savory marinara sauce creates a warm embrace on a plate that brings a smile to anyone’s face. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels indulgent without being too heavy.

Great for Gatherings

Finally, Eggplant Rolatini is a showstopper at gatherings. It looks beautiful when served on a platter, making it an eye-catching centerpiece. People are often surprised to learn it’s vegetarian, and they appreciate the effort that goes into each roll. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that you share with others.

Ingredients Required for Eggplant Rolatini

When it comes to the ingredients for Eggplant Rolatini, think about how each component plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious dish. The key players here are the eggplants, of course, which serve as the comforting vessel for the filling, and the ricotta, which adds creamy richness. Fresh herbs like parsley and oregano elevate the flavors, while marinara sauce ties everything together.

2 medium eggplants (about 1½ pounds each), peeled and each cut lengthwise into 4 thin slices – The star of the dish, these eggplant slices become perfectly tender and flavorful after baking.
2 teaspoons olive oil – A healthy fat that helps to enhance the flavor of the eggplant and prevent sticking.
1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
3 medium garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
1 cup fat-free ricotta cheese – Creamy and rich, this cheese is the heart of the filling.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Brings a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color.
¾ teaspoon dried oregano – A classic Italian herb that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
1¼ cups tomato basil marinara sauce (no more than 2g fat per serving) – The zesty sauce that ties all the flavors together.
⅓ cup shredded fontina or mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and creates a delicious topping.
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty bite and depth of flavor.

The Process for Making Eggplant Rolatini

Making Eggplant Rolatini is a delightful experience that combines art and cooking. You’ll find that each step brings you closer to a mouthwatering dish that you can’t wait to share. Let’s get started!

Place your oven rack 5 inches from the heat. Preheat your oven’s broiler. Line a large baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick spray. Arrange the eggplant slices on the baking sheet. Broil, without turning, until they are deep golden brown, about 6 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as broiling can go quickly! Once done, remove from the oven and let cool. This initial step transforms the eggplants, making them tender and flavorful.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 9×13 inch (or slightly smaller) dish with nonstick spray. This is where your Eggplant Rolatini will bake, so make sure it’s ready to go!
In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking and stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. The aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a lovely atmosphere.
In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, parsley, and oregano. Add in the onion mixture and stir until all the ingredients are well combined. This mixture is the heart of your Eggplant Rolatini, so be sure to taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Spread a couple of teaspoonfuls of the ricotta mixture onto the pale side of each eggplant slice. Make sure to cover it well. Then, roll up each slice tightly to enclose the filling. This is where the magic happens! Each roll will hold all the flavors inside as it bakes.
Place the rolled eggplants, seam-side-down, in the prepared baking dish. It’s important to arrange them snugly so they cook evenly.
Spoon the marinara sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are generously covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and Parmesan on top. This layer of cheese will become bubbly and golden as it bakes, adding an irresistible topping.
Bake until the eggplant is browned and the sauce is bubbly, about 30 minutes. The aroma wafting from the oven will have you counting down the minutes until you can dig in!
Serve immediately, and enjoy the fruits of your labor with family and friends. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that makes all the effort worth it.

Things Worth Knowing

Be mindful of eggplant preparation: Salting the slices before cooking can help remove bitterness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor.
Don’t overstuff the rolls: It might be tempting to add too much of the filling, but leave some space for the eggplant to roll up easily without breaking.
Let the baked rolls rest: After removing from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to serve.
Experiment with different cheeses: While ricotta is traditional, blending in other cheeses can yield delightful variations.

Change It Up

Feeling adventurous with your Eggplant Rolatini? Here are some tips to switch things up and make the dish your own.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled uncooked rolls. Just let them cool and then wrap tightly in plastic wrap. They can be baked straight from frozen, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light meal or alongside garlic bread for something heartier.
Seasonal Variations: Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables into the filling, like spinach in the spring or roasted peppers in the summer.

Accompaniments for Eggplant Rolatini

Serving Eggplant Rolatini is just as important as making it. Here are some ideas to accompany this delicious dish:

Side Dishes: A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the rolls.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even potlucks, where it’s sure to impress.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven for the best results, keeping the rolls moist.
Seasonal Pairings: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables or a bright summer salad to keep things fresh and light.
Presentation: Garnish with additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.

FAQ

Eggplant Rolatini is an Italian dish made by rolling slices of eggplant around a filling, typically consisting of ricotta cheese and herbs, then baked with marinara sauce. It’s a delicious and comforting vegetarian option that can be served as a main dish or side.

Absolutely! You can prepare the Eggplant Rolatini rolls and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop them in the oven until heated through and bubbly.

Eggplant Rolatini pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or even a glass of sparkling water with lemon. The freshness of a salad complements the rich flavors of the dish, making for a balanced meal.

Yes! Eggplant Rolatini can be frozen before baking. Just let the assembled rolls cool down, wrap them tightly, and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook them, bake from frozen but be aware that you may need to add extra time to the cooking process.

Conclusion

Eggplant Rolatini is a wonderful dish that beautifully combines flavors and textures, making it a favorite in my home. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering. I encourage you to try making this dish yourself; I promise it will not disappoint!