How to Make Eggplant Rollatini: A Step-by-Step Guide
Eggplant rollatini is a classic Italian dish that consists of thinly sliced eggplant rolled around a filling of ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and basil, then baked in the oven until golden brown. It’s a popular appetizer or main course that’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to make eggplant rollatini at home.
Preparing the Eggplant
Before you start rolling the eggplant, you’ll need to prepare it. Here’s how:
- Selecting the Right Eggplant: Choose a firm, heavy eggplant with a glossy skin. You’ll need about 2-3 eggplants for this recipe.
- Slicing the Eggplant: Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. You can use a mandoline or a sharp knife to get even slices.
- Salting the Eggplant: Sprinkle both sides of the eggplant slices with salt to remove excess moisture and bitterness. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour. Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Preparing the Filling
While the eggplant is sitting, prepare the filling. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ricotta Cheese: Use high-quality ricotta cheese for the best flavor. You can also mix it with other cheeses like Parmesan, mozzarella, or goat cheese.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate the Parmesan cheese and set it aside.
- Fresh Basil: Chop the fresh basil leaves and set them aside.
- Garlic: Mince 2-3 cloves of garlic and set it aside.
- Salt and Pepper: Add salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling the Rollatini
Now it’s time to assemble the rollatini. Here’s how:
- Spread the Filling: Spread a tablespoon of ricotta cheese mixture on each eggplant slice, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Add the Basil and Garlic: Sprinkle the chopped basil and minced garlic on top of the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Roll the Eggplant: Roll the eggplant slice into a tight cylinder, starting from one of the long edges. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices.
- Place the Rollatini: Place the rolled eggplant slices seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking the Rollatini
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Here’s how to bake the rollatini:
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the rollatini with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 25-30 Minutes: Bake the rollatini for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the eggplant is tender.
- Broil for 2-3 Minutes: Broil the rollatini for 2-3 minutes to give them a nice golden brown color on top.
Serving the Rollatini
The rollatini is now ready to serve. Here are some serving suggestions:
- With Tomato Sauce: Serve the rollatini with a homemade tomato sauce and some garlic bread.
- With Marinara Sauce: Serve the rollatini with a store-bought or homemade marinara sauce and some crusty bread.
- As a Main Course: Serve the rollatini as a main course with a side of pasta, garlic bread, and a green salad.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best eggplant rollatini:
- Use Fresh Eggplant: Use fresh eggplant for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overfill: Don’t overfill the eggplant slices with the filling, as it can make them difficult to roll.
- Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, goat cheese, or feta cheese for a unique flavor.
- Add Some Spice: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: You can make the rollatini ahead of time and bake them just before serving.
Conclusion
Eggplant rollatini is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By following these steps and tips, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is a great way to get started with eggplant rollatini. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the flavors of Italy!