Description
Eggplant Rollatini
Ingredients:
2 medium eggplants, thinly sliced lengthwise
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplant:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C)
.
Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Roast on a baking sheet for 15 minutes until softened, then let cool slightly
.
2. Make the Filling:
In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, and half of the basil
.
Season with salt and pepper to taste
.
3. Assemble the Rollatini:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish
.
Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture on each eggplant slice, roll tightly, and arrange seam-side down in the dish.
4. Bake:
Top the rolls with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan
.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden
.
5. Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm
.
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect Rollatini, follow these detailed steps. First, slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick strips using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniformity. Salting the slices and letting them sit for 30 minutes before patting dry is optional but helps reduce bitterness. When roasting, ensure the slices are pliable but not browned. For the filling, thoroughly combine the cheeses and egg to create a cohesive mixture that won’t leak. During assembly, use about 1.5 tablespoons of filling per slice, spreading it evenly before rolling tightly from the narrow end. Placing them seam-side down in the sauced dish secures them.
Serving Suggestions
Eggplant Rollatini is a versatile centerpiece. For a classic Italian meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette and a slice of crusty garlic bread. It also pairs beautifully with a side of spaghetti tossed in a simple olive oil and garlic sauce or a portion of sautéed spinach. For a lighter option, accompany it with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti, complements the rich tomato and cheese flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Slice and roast eggplant until pliable. Mix ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, and basil for the filling. Spread sauce in a dish, fill and roll each eggplant slice, and place seam-side down. Top with more sauce and cheese, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Eggplant Rollatini ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Can I freeze Rollatini? Absolutely. Assemble and bake as directed. Let it cool completely, then wrap the dish well or portion into freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the oven, covered, until heated through.
Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese? Cottage cheese (blended for smoothness) or a firm ricotta salata (grated) can be used, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.
How do I prevent my rolls from being soggy? Ensure your roasted eggplant slices are properly cooled and patted dry. Also, avoid over-saucing the bottom of the baking dish; a thin layer is sufficient.
Can I make this gluten-free or low-carb? This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb as written, making it an excellent choice for those dietary preferences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid slicing the eggplant too thickly, as it will be difficult to roll. Do not overfill the slices, as the cheese mixture will ooze out during baking. Ensure your marinara sauce is not too watery, as this can make the final dish soupy. Skipping the step of letting the roasted eggplant cool slightly can lead to burned fingers and cause the filling to melt prematurely. Finally, do not under-bake, as the egg in the filling needs to be fully cooked.
Conclusion
Eggplant Rollatini is an impressive yet approachable dish that showcases the best of Italian comfort food. With its layers of tender roasted eggplant, rich and herby cheese filling, and tangy marinara sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite for both family dinners and entertaining guests. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!