Eggplant Roll-Ups
Eggplant Roll-Ups are a delightful dish made from tender slices of eggplant stuffed with a creamy and flavorful ricotta filling. This savory treat combines the robust flavors of marinara sauce, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, Eggplant Roll-Ups offer a unique spin on traditional rolled dishes, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor. If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without overwhelming you in the kitchen, Eggplant Roll-Ups are worth making!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore these Eggplant Roll-Ups. Not only are they visually appealing and bursting with flavor, but they also serve as a healthier alternative to heavier pasta dishes. The eggplant acts as a wonderful low-carb canvas, while the filling packs a nutritious punch with spinach and cheese. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s family-friendly; kids are bound to enjoy helping with the rolling process, and everyone will appreciate the delicious outcome!
Ingredients
To make these delectable Eggplant Roll-Ups, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants: The star of the dish, providing a soft, slightly earthy flavor when cooked.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, this cheese complements the eggplant beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds a pop of color and a delightful taste that enhances the stuffing.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Juicy, tangy, and aromatic, this sauce is the ideal companion for the roll-ups.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Savory and nutty, this cheese brings depth to the ricotta mixture.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh basil infuses the roll-ups with a fragrant herby flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the ingredients.
- Olive oil for sautéing: Adds a rich flavor and aids in the cooking process.
With these fresh, high-quality ingredients, your Eggplant Roll-Ups will shine!
Step-by-Step Directions
Creating Eggplant Roll-Ups is a straightforward process. Let’s walk through it step-by-step:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready for baking by the time you’re done prepping the roll-ups.
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Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips and sprinkle with salt to draw out moisture. Let them sit for about 30 minutes, then pat the eggplant strips dry with paper towels. This step helps to concentrate the flavors and prevents sogginess.
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In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Combine the sautéed spinach with ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
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On a baking sheet, arrange the eggplant strips. Lightly brush each strip with olive oil and bake for about 15 minutes until they become slightly soft and pliable.
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Remove the eggplant strips from the oven and fill each strip with the ricotta mixture, then roll them up carefully. Place each roll seam side down to help keep them closed during baking.
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Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Position the roll-ups in the dish and top with the remaining marinara sauce. Don’t hesitate to smother them in sauce—it enhances the flavors beautifully. Finish by sprinkling the fresh basil on top.
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Bake for another 20-25 minutes until heated through. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden. Serve hot and enjoy the flavors!
Tips & Tricks
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Grill the eggplant: For added smoky flavor, you can grill the eggplant strips instead of baking them. Just brush with olive oil and grill until tender.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the ricotta filling by adding other spices such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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Use leftovers: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a couple of days before baking, making it perfect for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Eggplant Roll-Ups pair wonderfully with a crisp side salad, such as a Mediterranean or Caesar salad, to complement their rich flavors. A side of garlic bread or warm focaccia is also an excellent choice to mop up any extra marinara sauce. For beverages, consider a light red wine, like Pinot Noir, or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing touch.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 roll-up):
- Calories: Approximately 210
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated fat: 5g
These values may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use.
Storing Tips & Variations
To store leftover Eggplant Roll-Ups, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
For variations, you can substitute the ricotta cheese for cottage cheese for a lower-fat option or incorporate cooked ground turkey or sausage into the ricotta mixture for added protein. You can even go vegan by using a plant-based ricotta substitute and omitting the Parmesan.
Conclusion
Eggplant Roll-Ups are not just a meal; they are a delightful culinary adventure waiting to happen in your kitchen. With their beautiful presentation and wonderful flavors, they make for an impressive dish suitable for any occasion. So why not try your hand at making Eggplant Roll-Ups tonight? Embrace the joy of cooking and share this fantastic recipe with family and friends!
FAQs
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Can I make Eggplant Roll-Ups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the roll-ups up to the baking stage and store them in the fridge for a day or two before baking. -
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
You can use pesto or a homemade tomato sauce if you prefer a different flavor profile. -
Is it possible to freeze Eggplant Roll-Ups?
Absolutely! After cooking, let them cool and store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. -
Can I use different fillings?
Certainly! You can mix in different veggies, herbs, or even protein like ground meat or tofu to suit your taste preferences. -
Are there any tips for making the eggplant less bitter?
Salting the eggplant slices and letting them sit for 30 minutes, as indicated in the steps, will help draw out moisture and bitterness. Rinse them before use for best results.
Eggplant Roll-Ups
Ingredients
For the Roll-Ups
- 2 large large eggplants The star of the dish, providing a soft, slightly earthy flavor when cooked.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese Creamy and rich, this cheese complements the eggplant beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh spinach Adds a pop of color and delightful taste.
- 1 cup marinara sauce Juicy, tangy, and aromatic.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Savory and nutty, adds depth to the ricotta mixture.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Infuses the roll-ups with a fragrant herby flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings.
- Olive oil for sautéing Adds rich flavor and aids in cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add fresh spinach and sauté until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Mix sautéed spinach with ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined.
- Arrange the eggplant strips on a baking sheet and lightly brush each with olive oil. Bake for about 15 minutes until slightly soft.
Assembly
- Remove the eggplant strips from the oven and fill each with the ricotta mixture. Roll them up carefully and place seam side down.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish, position roll-ups in the dish, top with remaining sauce, and sprinkle fresh basil on top.
Baking
- Bake for another 20-25 minutes until heated through, and cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve hot.