Eggplant Rollatini Healthy Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Eggplant Rollatini is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful meal that still feels indulgent. The dish is loaded with wholesome ingredients like ricotta, spinach, and Parmesan, while the eggplant adds a savory depth of flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of Italian cuisine without the heavy carbs. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight meal, and even tastes better as leftovers!

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch planks (thinner slices = easier rolling)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess, or part-skim)

• 1 cup packed chopped spinach (squeeze out excess water)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

• 1 egg

• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing eggplant slices)

• Salt & pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Eggplant
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch planks. Brush both sides of the slices lightly with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes until tender. Watch closely so they don’t become overcooked.

2. Make the Filling
   While the eggplant bakes, mix the ricotta, chopped spinach (squeezed dry), Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The mixture should be thick but not runny. If needed, add breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture.

3. Assemble & Bake
   Spread half of the marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place a tablespoon of the ricotta filling at one end of each eggplant slice, then roll them up. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in the dish. Cover with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top. Bake for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Ricotta alternatives: Use cottage cheese (blended smooth) or goat cheese for different flavor profiles. For a dairy-free version, blend firm tofu with lemon juice.

• Spinach alternatives: Kale or Swiss chard are great options just chop and sauté them before mixing with the ricotta.

• Sauce substitutions: If you don’t have marinara, blend canned tomatoes with garlic, onions, and herbs for a quick homemade version.

Storage/Reheating

This Eggplant Rollatini actually tastes even better the next day! To store, let it cool completely and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, store individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
To reheat, avoid the microwave as it can make the eggplant rubbery. Instead, place the rollatini in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes or until heated through. This will keep the cheese bubbly and the eggplant tender.

FAQs

Can I use zucchini instead of eggplant?

Yes! Zucchini works well in this dish. Just slice them slightly thicker than eggplant (about 1/3 inch) as they are more delicate. Be sure to salt and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can assemble the rollatini, freeze them (without baking), and then bake them straight from frozen. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Replace the ricotta with firm tofu blended with lemon juice, and skip the egg. Use a dairy-free cheese for the Parmesan as well.

How can I make the eggplant less bitter?

Before baking, sprinkle the eggplant slices lightly with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This will draw out the bitterness. Wipe off any excess moisture with a paper towel before baking.

Can I make the marinara sauce from scratch?

Of course! You can blend canned tomatoes with garlic, onion, olive oil, and herbs to create a quick and flavorful homemade marinara sauce.

How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Make sure to drain the ricotta and spinach well, and avoid over-wetting the eggplant slices. Also, don’t over-saturate the dish with sauce, just enough to coat the rolls.

What’s a good side dish to serve with this?

A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this rich dish. You can also serve it with roasted potatoes or garlic bread for a heartier meal.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes! Store-bought marinara is perfectly fine, and it saves time. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works just as well as fresh! Just be sure to thaw it thoroughly and squeeze out all excess water before mixing it into the ricotta.

Can I prepare the rollatini in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the rollatini a day ahead, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just bake them according to the recipe.

Conclusion

Eggplant Rollatini is the perfect healthy meal when you’re craving Italian comfort food without the heavy carbs. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this rollatini is sure to impress. With a few simple variations and storage options, this dish can be made ahead and enjoyed as leftovers. Enjoy this wholesome, cheesy goodness that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!