How to Make Italian Eggplant Rollatini for Dinner

Italian Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful meal that serves as an excellent choice for dinner, combining the flavors of fresh ingredients with the comfort of home-cooked cuisine. This dish features thinly sliced eggplant, filled with a rich ricotta cheese mixture, and topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Enjoy this step-by-step guide on how to make Italian Eggplant Rollatini for dinner.

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 medium-sized eggplants
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Eggplant

The first step in making your Eggplant Rollatini is to prepare the eggplant:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the eggplants lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices. You may want to use a mandoline for uniform slices.
  3. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
  4. Rinse off the salt and pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel.
  5. Brush both sides of the slices with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake the slices for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender.

Making the Filling

While the eggplant is baking, prepare the filling:

  1. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped basil. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  2. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.

Assembling the Rollatini

With the eggplant baked and the filling prepared, it's time to assemble your rollatini:

  1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  2. Take one eggplant slice and place a generous spoonful of the ricotta filling at one end. Roll the slice carefully, enclosing the filling, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
  3. Repeat the process for the remaining eggplant slices and filling.
  4. Once all the rollatini are in the baking dish, cover them with the remaining marinara sauce and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.

Baking the Rollatini

Now, it’s time to bake your delicious creation:

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven.
  2. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  3. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Eggplant Rollatini can be served on its own or alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Garnish with additional fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This delightful dish is not only a feast for the eyes but will also fill your home with the wonderful aroma of Italian cuisine.

Conclusion

Making Italian Eggplant Rollatini for dinner is a rewarding experience that brings together flavor and creativity. With simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a nutritious and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!