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Involtini di Melanzane Involtini di Melanzane Recipe Guide #melanzane #involtini #involtinidimelanzane #pecorino #menta #sicilia #incucinaconcarla #food52 #vegetariano #vegetarian

Involtini di Melanzane

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Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian

Equipment

  • Equipment Needed: Baking dish, frying pan, spatula, knife, cutting board, and aluminum foil

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • For the Eggplant Rolls:
  • 2 large eggplants
  • Olive oil for brushing
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese omit for a dairy-free option
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Method
  • Prepare the Eggplants:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. You should get about 6-8 slices per eggplant.
  • Brush both sides of the slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  • Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and golden.
  • Make the Filling:
  • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, parsley, garlic, and lemon zest. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Set aside.
  • Assemble the Rolls:
  • Once the eggplant slices are roasted, take one slice and place a generous tablespoon of the filling at one end.
  • Roll the slice tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat with all eggplant slices and filling.
  • Add the Sauce:
  • Pour marinara sauce over the assembled eggplant rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
  • If desired, sprinkle some additional mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy finish.
  • Bake:
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
  • Serve:
  • Allow the rolls to stand for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  • Variations and Tips
  • Meat Option: For a heartier version, you can add cooked ground beef or sausage to the filling mixture.
  • Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Use vegan cheeses and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
  • Gluten-Free: Ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free or make your own from fresh tomatoes.