Easy and Delicious Eggplant Rollatini Casserole Recipe

Eggplant Rollatini is a classic Italian dish that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful meal. Traditionally, it's made by rolling thin slices of eggplant around a delicious filling, and then baking it in marinara sauce. But today, we're putting a twist on the traditional method with a hearty Eggplant rollatiniasserole that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants (sliced lengthwise)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg (optional for binding)
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Eggplant

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices.
3. Lay the slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
4. Pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel.
5. Brush both sides with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes until tender.

Making the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the grated mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and egg (if using).
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a casserole dish.
2. Take each eggplant slice and spoon a small amount of the cheese mixture onto one end. Roll up the slice and place it seam-side down in the casserole dish.
3. Continue this process until all eggplant slices are filled and placed in the dish.
4. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the eggplant rolls.
5. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

Baking Instructions

1. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

Once your Eggplant Rollatini Casserole is baked to perfection:

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Tips for Making the Dish Vegetarian or Vegan-Friendly

• Vegetarian: This dish is already vegetarian, but for an extra protein boost, add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
• Vegan: Replace the ricotta cheese with a tofu or cashew-based ricotta substitute. Use vegan mozzarella and skip the egg.

Health Benefits of Eggplant and Nutritional Information

Eggplant is a nutritious vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's known for its antioxidant properties and may help improve heart health and blood sugar control. This casserole is not only delicious but also a wholesome meal option.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the steps and tips to create a fantastic Eggplant rollatiniasserole, it's time to get cooking! We'd love to see your creations. Share your photos and tag us on social media. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!