Eggplant Rollatini: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish

Ingredients

For the Eggplant:

  • 2 large eggplants
  • Olive oil, for brushing
  • Salt, for drawing out moisture

For the Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • Extra Parmesan and mozzarella for topping

How to Make Eggplant Rollatini

1. Prepare the Eggplant

  • Slice eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices.
  • Sprinkle slices with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
  • Pat dry with paper towels.

2. Cook the Eggplant

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Lightly brush both sides of the slices with olive oil.
  • Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until pliable.
  • Alternatively, grill slices on a stovetop grill until soft and slightly charred.

3. Make the Filling

  • In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, chopped herbs, and half the mozzarella.

4. Assemble the Rollatini

  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  • Place a spoonful of filling on one end of each eggplant slice.
  • Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.
  • Repeat with remaining slices.

5. Bake

  • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls.
  • Top with the rest of the mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

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