Looking for a tasty way to enjoy eggplant? My Eggplant Parmesan Roll Ups are flavorful and easy to make! With simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time. Imagine layers of roasted eggplant filled with creamy ricotta and topped with marinara. It’s the perfect meal for any night. Ready to impress your family? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of rich ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a delightful, creamy filling that perfectly complements the tender eggplant.
- Healthy Comfort Food: This dish is a lighter take on traditional lasagna, packed with nutritious vegetables while still delivering that comforting, satisfying taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These roll-ups can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Versatile Dish: Eggplant Parmesan Roll-Ups can easily be customized with different herbs, spices, or even by adding sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Eggplant Parmesan Roll Ups
- 2 medium-sized eggplants
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
When I make Eggplant Parmesan Roll Ups, I start with two medium-sized eggplants. They should be fresh, firm, and without blemishes. The eggplants will be sliced into thin planks. This helps them roll easily and cook well.
Next, I gather my cheese ingredients. I use two cups of marinara sauce to soak the roll-ups later. For the creamy filling, I mix one cup of ricotta cheese with one and a half cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese blend gives the dish a rich flavor. I also add half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese for extra taste.
To bind everything, I include one large egg. This helps the filling stick together. A touch of garlic adds depth, while fresh basil brings a lovely herbal note. I use two cloves of garlic, minced finely, and one tablespoon of fresh basil, or one teaspoon if dried.
I season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, I brush the eggplant slices with olive oil before cooking. This step enhances the flavor and helps the eggplants brown nicely. Together, these ingredients create a delicious and comforting dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Eggplants
To start, you need to prep the eggplants. First, slice them into thin planks. This helps them cook evenly. Next, sprinkle salt on the slices. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step draws out moisture and bitterness. After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplants under cold water. Gently pat them dry with paper towels.
Now, you can cook the eggplants. You have two options: grilling or roasting. If you grill, use a grill pan. Brush each slice with olive oil. Cook until golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes on each side. If you roast, place them on a baking sheet and do the same.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
Next, you will prepare the cheese mixture. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add one large egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it is smooth and well-blended. This mixture adds creaminess to your roll-ups.
Assembling the Roll Ups
Now it’s time to assemble the roll-ups. Take a grilled eggplant slice and lay it flat. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto one end. Carefully roll it up tightly. Place the seam side down in a lightly greased baking dish. Repeat this step until you use all the eggplant slices and cheese filling.
Baking the Roll Ups
For baking, pour marinara sauce over the roll-ups. Ensure they are well-covered. Then, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. This helps achieve the perfect melt and bubbly cheese.
Once done, let the roll-ups rest for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time helps everything set nicely, making it easier to plate. Enjoy your delicious eggplant parmesan roll-ups!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-salting your eggplants. Salting helps remove moisture, but too much salt can ruin the taste. Use just enough to draw out the liquid and rinse well.
Do not skip letting the dish rest before serving. This step helps the flavors blend and makes it easier to serve. A few minutes of patience goes a long way.
Enhancing Flavor
You can easily enhance the flavor of your cheese mixture. Adding spices like red pepper flakes or herbs like oregano can make a big difference. Experiment with your favorite flavors for a unique twist.
Drizzling olive oil over the roll-ups before serving adds richness and depth. It also gives a nice sheen to the dish, making it look more appealing.
Presentation Tips
Plating your dish well can impress guests. Arrange the eggplant roll-ups neatly on each plate. Pour some marinara sauce around the roll-ups for color and flavor.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a pop of green and a fresh aroma. A light drizzle of olive oil on top can also enhance the look and taste of your dish.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Eggplant: Opt for firm, shiny eggplants with a vibrant color to ensure the best flavor and texture in your dish.
- Don't Skip Salting: Salting the eggplant not only removes bitterness but also helps to achieve a better texture by drawing out moisture.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a unique twist on the traditional flavors.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the roll-ups in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for a fresh, hot meal.
Variations
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
You can make this dish friendly for all diets. To create a vegan version, swap standard cheese for plant-based options. Use vegan ricotta or cashew cheese for a creamy texture. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
You can also mix in colorful vegetables. Try spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. These add flavor and nutrition. They will make your roll-ups even more exciting.
Regional Variations
Different regions bring unique flavors to this dish. You can switch up the sauce. For a zesty twist, use pesto instead of marinara. This adds a fresh taste and bright color.
Consider using local cheeses, too. Fresh burrata or goat cheese can add richness. These changes will give your roll-ups a unique flair.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your roll-ups with tasty sides. A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette works well. You can also serve garlic bread for a hearty meal.
For wine, a light red like Chianti complements the dish. Or, try a crisp white like Pinot Grigio. Both options enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Feel free to add fresh herbs on top before serving. This not only looks great but adds more flavor, too!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your eggplant Parmesan roll-ups fresh, refrigerate them right away. Place any leftovers in an airtight container. This helps maintain flavor and moisture. Make sure to consume them within 3 to 4 days for the best taste. You can also cover the dish with plastic wrap to keep it fresh longer.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save your roll-ups for later, freezing is a great option. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each roll-up in plastic wrap. Next, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them safe from freezer burn. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your roll-ups, the oven is the best choice. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the roll-ups in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps keep the cheese melty and the eggplant tender. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option, but the texture may not be as nice. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
FAQs
Can I make Eggplant Parmesan Roll Ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Eggplant Parmesan Roll Ups in advance. Follow these steps for best results:
- Prepare the eggplants: Salt and rinse them the same day. Grill or bake them, then cool.
- Make the cheese filling: Combine all the cheese and herbs, then store it in the fridge.
- Assemble the roll-ups: You can roll them up and place them in a baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- Storage: They stay fresh for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you are ready to eat.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, try these options:
- Cottage cheese: It has a similar texture but is slightly chunkier. Blend it for a smoother mix.
- Cream cheese: This makes a richer filling. You may want to add a bit of milk to loosen it.
- Tofu: Blend silken tofu for a vegan option. This keeps the dish dairy-free.
Each substitute has its own flavor and texture. Choose based on your taste and diet.
How many calories are in Eggplant Parmesan Roll Ups?
Each roll-up has about 200 calories. This can change based on your ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s a breakdown of the main components:
- Eggplant: Low in calories and high in fiber.
- Cheeses: These add calories but also provide protein and calcium.
- Marinara sauce: Usually low in calories, but check the label for added sugars.
A serving size is typically three roll-ups. If you want a lighter meal, serve with a side salad.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version:
- Marinara sauce: Check labels for gluten-free options.
- Cheeses: Most cheeses are naturally gluten-free.
- Eggplant: Naturally gluten-free, so no changes needed here.
Feel free to explore gluten-free breadcrumbs as a topping for added crunch, if desired. Enjoy your meal without worry!
Eggplant Parmesan Roll Ups are a tasty dish with simple steps. We covered the key ingredients, from eggplants to cheeses, and how to prepare them. You learned to avoid common mistakes while enhancing flavor. We discussed fun variations, storage tips, and answers to your FAQs.
Now, it's time to get cooking and enjoy these roll-ups. They’ll impress everyone at the table. With a few tweaks, you can make this dish your own. Happy cooking!
