Eggplant Rollatini Recipe – Italian Special

Eggplant Rollatini is a traditional Italian dish where thin slices of eggplant are grilled and rolled around a creamy ricotta and spinach filling. These rolls are then baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. The result is a comforting, flavorful meal that showcases the versatility of eggplant. Perfect for a hearty vegetarian dinner or as a side dish to complement your main course, Eggplant Rollatini brings the taste of Italy to your table.

  • Prep Time30 min
  • Cook Time45 min
  • Total Time1 hr 15 min

Eggplant Rollatini Recipe Ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
  • Salt, for sweating eggplant slices
  • Olive oil, for brushing eggplant slices
  • 500g ricotta cheese
  • 200g spinach, fresh or frozen, chopped and drained
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 500ml marinara sauce
  • 150g mozzarella cheese, grated
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Prepare Eggplant:

1

Slice eggplant and sweat with salt for 20-30 mins.

2

Rinse, pat dry, brush with olive oil, grill until tender.

Make Filling:

3

Mix ricotta, spinach, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and egg.

Assemble:

4

Spread ricotta mixture on eggplant slices, roll up, place seam side down.

Sauce and Bake:

5

Pour marinara sauce over rolls, sprinkle with mozzarella.

6

Bake covered for 30 mins, uncover and bake 15 mins until browned.

Finish:

7

Garnish with basil leaves, serve hot.

Recipe Notes:

  • Sweating the Eggplant: Salting the eggplant slices and letting them sit for 20–30 minutes helps remove excess moisture and bitterness. Afterward, rinse and pat them dry before grilling.

  • Filling Variations: While this recipe uses ricotta and spinach, you can add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or artichokes to the filling for added flavor.

  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the rollatini ahead of time and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving for a convenient meal.

  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.