Eggplant Rollatini is a classic Italian dish that combines the robust flavors of eggplant, creamy ricotta cheese, and tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for both vegetarians and meat-eaters, this dish is a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a delicious weeknight meal, Eggplant Rollatini is a fantastic choice. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this delectable dish, complete with tips on selecting the best ingredients and achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients for Eggplant Rollatini
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 tablespoon salt (for sweating the eggplant)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How to Make Eggplant Rollatini
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. You should have about 12-16 slices.
- Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to sweat out the excess moisture. This step helps to reduce bitterness.
- After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cold water to remove the salt and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Rollatini
- Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Take one eggplant slice and place about 1-2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture at one end. Roll the eggplant slice around the filling and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices and ricotta mixture.
- Once all the rollatini are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the rollatini.
Step 4: Bake the Rollatini
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the eggplant rollatini from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Eggplant Rollatini!
About the Main Ingredients
Eggplant: Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable that absorbs flavors beautifully. When choosing eggplants, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. The salt-sweating process helps to draw out any bitterness and excess moisture, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta cheese is a creamy, mild cheese that adds a rich texture to the filling. It’s made from whey, the byproduct of cheese-making, and has a slightly grainy texture. Ricotta is perfect for stuffing and baking because it retains moisture and becomes even creamier when cooked.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese adds a gooey, melty texture to the dish. When baked, it creates a deliciously cheesy top layer that complements the creamy ricotta filling and tender eggplant.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese brings a sharp, nutty flavor to the dish. It’s used both in the filling and on top of the rollatini to add depth and complexity to the overall flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs. It provides a tangy, savory base that ties all the components of the dish together. Using a high-quality marinara sauce can elevate the entire dish.
Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a great way to showcase the flavors of fresh, seasonal eggplant and classic Italian ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress and become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious meal with family and friends!
