Eggplant Parmesan Roll-Ups
INGREDIENTS
For the Eggplant Roll-Ups:
2 large eggplants, thinly sliced lengthwise
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
For the Marinara Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
PREPARATION
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
2. Prepare the Eggplant:Place the thinly sliced eggplant on a baking sheet. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the eggplant slices are tender. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling:In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the Roll-Ups:Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce onto each eggplant slice. Place a dollop of the ricotta-spinach mixture at one end of each eggplant slice. Roll up the eggplant slices, enclosing the filling, and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with Sauce and Cheese:pour the remaining marinara sauce over the eggplant roll-ups, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Bake:Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove the foil from the baking dish and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the eggplant roll-ups cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.