How to Make Classic Eggplant Rollatini: A Step-by-Step Guide
Eggplant rollatini is a delicious Italian dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. It features thin slices of eggplant rolled up with a creamy cheese filling, baked to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. While it might look fancy, it’s surprisingly easy to make. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to prepare classic eggplant rollatini in simple steps. Follow along, and soon you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in your own kitchen!
What Is Eggplant Rollatini?
Eggplant rollatini is an Italian-inspired dish that consists of thin slices of eggplant stuffed with a ricotta cheese mixture, rolled up, and baked in marinara sauce. It’s a vegetarian dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender eggplant, creamy cheese, and tangy tomato sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make classic eggplant rollatini, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the eggplant:
- 2 medium eggplants
- Salt (to draw out moisture)
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Olive oil (for cooking)
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For the cheese filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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For the sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
The first step is to prepare the eggplant slices. Here’s how:
1. Wash the eggplants and trim off the ends.
2. Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin, even slices, about ¼ inch thick. You want them thin enough to roll easily but not so thin that they fall apart.
3. Sprinkle both sides of each slice with salt. Lay them on a paper towel or wire rack and let them sit for 30 minutes. This step helps draw out moisture and removes any bitterness from the eggplant.
4. After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices under cool water to remove the salt, and pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Cook the Eggplant Slices
To make the eggplant soft and pliable for rolling, you’ll need to cook the slices:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Working in batches, cook the eggplant slices until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. (Alternatively, you can roast them in the oven at 400°F/200°C for 10-15 minutes.)
3. Set the cooked slices aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling
While the eggplant cools, prepare the cheese mixture:
1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, and garlic powder (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Rollatini
Now it’s time to put everything together:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a layer of marinara sauce (about 1 cup) in the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Take a cooked eggplant slice and place a spoonful of the cheese filling on one end (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on the size of the slice).
4. Roll the eggplant slice around the filling, starting from the cheese side. Place the rolled-up eggplant seam-side down into the sauce in the baking dish.
5. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices and cheese filling.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Bake
Once all the rollatini are assembled, finish the dish:
1. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the eggplant rolls. Make sure they’re evenly coated, but don’t drown them in sauce.
2. Sprinkle a little more mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
3. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the eggplant rollatini cool for 5 minutes before serving—this will make it easier to scoop out of the dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. You can serve this dish on its own or alongside garlic bread, a light salad, or pasta.
Tips for Success
- Slice evenly: Cutting the eggplant into uniform slices ensures even cooking. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for precision.
- Don’t skip the salt: Salting the eggplant is crucial for removing excess moisture and improving its texture.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the rollatini and refrigerate before baking. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Final Thoughts
Eggplant rollatini is a classic comfort food that’s easier to make than you might think. With tender eggplant, creamy cheese filling, and vibrant marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just treating yourself, eggplant rollatini is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Italy.
Now that you know how to make it, why not try it? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking! You’ll be proud you made this crowd-pleasing dish from scratch. Buon appetito!
