Here’s a delicious recipe for Eggplant Rollatini, a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring thin slices of eggplant stuffed with a creamy ricotta filling and baked in marinara sauce. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving something hearty and flavorful!
Eggplant Rollatini Recipe
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Eggplant:
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Arrange the eggplant slices on the baking sheets. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the eggplant for 10-12 minutes until softened and pliable but not fully cooked. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Make the Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, parsley, garlic, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Rollatini
- Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the filling onto one end of each eggplant slice. Roll the slice tightly around the filling and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with all slices.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the rolled eggplants. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Rollatini
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or pasta.