Description
Delicious Italian-inspired eggplant rolls stuffed with a flavorful blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, fresh basil, and garlic, baked in a rich marinara sauce. A perfect vegetarian and gluten-free main course that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggplant Rolls
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Filling
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Sauce and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Eggplant: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil, then season them with salt and pepper. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast Eggplant: Roast the eggplant slices for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they become tender and pliable enough to roll without breaking.
- Mix Cheese Filling: While the eggplant roasts, combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped basil, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl. Stir well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble Rolls: When the eggplant slices are cool enough to handle, spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto one end of each slice. Roll the slices carefully and place them seam side down in the baking dish over the marinara sauce.
- Add Sauce and Bake: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls, ensuring they’re well covered. Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until the dish is heated through and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the eggplant rolls with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves before serving warm.
Notes
- You can grill the eggplant slices instead of roasting them for a smokier flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture if you prefer a bit of heat.
- These eggplant rolls can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
