Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these eggplant appetizers roll ups! They are not just delicious; they’re a delightful symphony of flavors wrapped in tender eggplant. Seriously, when I make these, my kitchen fills with the most amazing aroma, and I can hardly wait for them to come out of the oven! They’re vegetarian, which means everyone can enjoy them, and the best part? They’re super easy to whip up! I remember the first time I made these for a gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could say “mangia!” Trust me, once you try these roll ups, you’ll be hooked on their cheesy goodness and vibrant marinara. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these scrumptious eggplant appetizers roll ups. I always recommend gathering all your ingredients before you start to make the process smoother and more enjoyable!
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced thinly (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (creamy and dreamy!)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for that rich, savory flavor)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade, yum!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting the eggplant)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to draw out moisture from the eggplant)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (for a little kick)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (because we want that authentic taste!)
Feel free to tweak the cheeses or add your favorite herbs if you’re feeling adventurous! These ingredients come together to create a flavor explosion that’s just oh-so-good!
How to Prepare Eggplant Appetizers Roll Ups
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these delicious eggplant appetizers roll ups! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and the end result is worth every moment spent in the kitchen. Here we go!
Prepping the Eggplant
First things first, you’ll want to slice your eggplants thinly—about 1/4 inch thick is perfect. I usually use a sharp knife for this, and trust me, a steady hand helps! Once you’ve got them sliced, sprinkle a little salt over the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 20 minutes. This step is super important because it draws out moisture and helps prevent them from becoming soggy later. After the waiting game, simply rinse the slices under cold water and pat them dry with some paper towels. Now they’re ready to soak up all that delicious flavor!
Making the Cheese Mixture
Now onto the cheesy goodness! In a medium bowl, combine your ricotta and grated Parmesan cheese. Add a teaspoon of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the mix. I like to use a fork to mash everything together until it’s nice and creamy. The textures should blend beautifully, and the aroma? Oh, it’s heavenly! Make sure to taste it—there’s nothing wrong with adjusting the seasoning to your liking. This mixture is the heart of your roll ups, so give it a good mix and set it aside for the next step.
Assembling the Roll Ups
Alright, it’s time to roll! Grab a baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom—this will keep things nice and moist. Take a slice of your eggplant and place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture at one end. Roll it up tightly, and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining slices. Once they’re all snug in the dish, cover them with more marinara sauce! Don’t be shy with the sauce; it really adds to the flavor and keeps everything juicy while baking.
Baking the Roll Ups
Now, pop those beautiful roll ups into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re heated through and the sauce is bubbling. I always make sure to keep an eye on them, just to be safe! Let them rest for a few minutes before serving, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition of these delightful eggplant appetizers roll ups! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredient brands and can vary depending on what you use. Here’s a breakdown per serving, which is two roll-ups:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 10g
These roll ups are not only tasty but also pack a good punch of protein and fiber, making them a satisfying vegetarian option! Enjoy them guilt-free as a delicious appetizer or even a light meal!
Tips for Success
Alright, here are my top tips to make your eggplant appetizers roll ups truly shine! First, don’t skip the salting step—it’s crucial for removing excess moisture and helps your eggplant have that perfect texture. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some minced garlic or fresh basil to the cheese mixture. Trust me, it elevates the taste! Be careful not to overfill the eggplant slices; just a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture is enough. If they’re too stuffed, they might burst while baking. Lastly, let them rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to serve. You’ll be a roll-up pro in no time!
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your eggplant appetizers roll ups, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! First off, try swapping out the ricotta for fresh mozzarella for a gooey, melty texture that’s simply divine. You could also mix in some crumbled feta for a tangy twist! Feeling adventurous? Add some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the cheese mixture for an extra burst of flavor. For those who love a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese blend. And don’t forget, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can truly elevate the dish. The sky’s the limit, so let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Serving Suggestions
These eggplant appetizers roll ups are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can take your meal to the next level! I love serving them alongside a fresh, crisp salad—think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. You could also whip up some garlic bread for that perfect Italian touch; it’s great for soaking up any extra marinara sauce! For a heartier option, consider a side of roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish tossed in olive oil and herbs. And don’t forget a nice glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon to complement those flavors. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this meal long after it’s gone!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of these delicious eggplant appetizers roll ups, storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh! Allow the roll ups to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the roll ups in a baking dish, cover with foil to keep them moist, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If you want to give them a little extra love, uncover the dish for the last few minutes to get that sauce bubbling again. You’ll be amazed at how delicious they taste, even the next day!
FAQ Section
Can I make these eggplant appetizers roll ups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the roll ups in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and when you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven! You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of ricotta, feel free to swap it out for cottage cheese or cream cheese! Both will give you a creamy texture, but keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly. You can mix in some herbs to enhance the taste if you go this route!
Are these roll ups gluten-free?
Yes, these eggplant appetizers roll ups are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check the marinara sauce and any additional ingredients for hidden gluten. Most brands are safe, but it’s always good to double-check!
Can I freeze the roll ups?
Yes, you can freeze these roll ups! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What should I serve with the eggplant roll ups?
These roll ups pair beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or even some roasted vegetables. You could also serve them over a bed of pasta for a heartier meal. They’re versatile and can complement many dishes!
For more information on the health benefits of eggplant, you can check out this Healthline article.
Print
Eggplant Appetizers Roll Ups: 5 Simple Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious eggplant roll-ups filled with a savory mixture.
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced thin
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Slice the eggplants thinly and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Rinse and pat dry the eggplant slices.
- Brush both sides of the slices with olive oil.
- Roast the eggplant slices on a baking sheet for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture on each eggplant slice and roll them up.
- Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the roll-ups seam side down in the dish and cover with more marinara sauce.
- Bake for 25 minutes until heated through.
Notes
- Serve warm as an appetizer.
- You can add herbs like basil for extra flavor.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 roll-ups
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: eggplant appetizers roll ups
