Making enchanting eggplant Parmesan rolls: A step-by-step recipe
Eggplant parmesan, rooted in Italian cuisine, is celebrated for its comforting, rich flavors. This version, free from meat and eggs, offers a twist with eggplant rolls filled with cheese and marinara sauce. Perfect for social gatherings or family meals, it showcases the adaptability of vegetables in beloved dishes. Ready to create this vegetarian delight? Let's start cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
For eggplant parmesan rolls, gather two large eggplants (cut lengthwise into one-fourth-inch slices), two cups marinara sauce, two cups shredded mozzarella, one cup ricotta, one-fourth cup grated parmesan, one tablespoon chopped basil (extra for garnish), one teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper. You'll also need olive oil for brushing the slices.
Prepare the eggplant slices
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Brush both sides of each eggplant slice with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the slices in a single layer on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and slightly golden. Allow them to cool enough to handle.
Mix filling ingredients
In a bowl, mix the ricotta, one cup of mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Add in the chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir these ingredients until well combined to form a consistent and savory filling that will be used to stuff the eggplant rolls. This blend promises to infuse each roll with rich and herby flavors.
Assemble the rolls
Generously spread the cheese mixture onto each slice of eggplant. Roll up from one end to create the rolls. To prevent sticking, pour half a cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Carefully place each roll seam-side down in the dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded, to maintain their shape during baking.
Bake and serve
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of your assembled eggplant rolls. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm as an enchanting main course that promises both comfort and flavor without any meat or eggs.
