Eggplant Involtini is a delightful Italian dish that takes simple ingredients and turns them into a cozy meal. It features roasted eggplant rolled around a cheesy filling and baked with marinara sauce. This dish is great for family dinners or special occasions.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Eggplant Involtini because it’s not only tasty but also healthy! Eggplants are packed with nutrients, and combining them with cheese and sauce will please everyone at the table. It’s a fun way to enjoy vegetables and is sure to impress your friends and family.
How to Make Eggplant Involtini
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips.
- Brush the slices lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill or roast the eggplant slices until tender.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and basil.
- Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto each eggplant slice and roll them up.
- Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Eggplant Involtini
Serve Eggplant Involtini hot from the oven with extra marinara sauce on the side. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil on top for added flavor. It pairs perfectly with a side salad or garlic bread.
How to Store Eggplant Involtini
If you have leftovers, let them cool before storing. Place the Eggplant Involtini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Eggplant Involtini
- Make sure to slice the eggplants thinly so they cook properly.
- You can add more spices or herbs to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- If you want a lighter version, you could skip the cheese or use low-fat options.
Variation
You can customize Eggplant Involtini by adding spinach or mushrooms to the cheese filling. You could also try using different types of cheese like goat cheese or feta for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make Eggplant Involtini ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. Just add the sauce and bake when ready to eat.
2. Is there a vegetarian option for the filling?
Absolutely! The filling is already vegetarian with just cheese and no meat. You can add more veggies or nuts for texture.
3. What can I serve with Eggplant Involtini?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or a light pasta on the side to soak up the extra sauce. Enjoy!