Grilled Eggplant Rolls with Ricotta and Spinach
Thinly sliced eggplant is grilled until smoky and tender, then rolled up with a ricotta, spinach, and herb mixture. Baked lightly with tomato sauce (optional) or served fresh with olive oil and basil, these rolls make a stunning starter, side, or vegetarian entree.
Time
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into thin strips (~1/4 inch thick)
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry & chopped (or thawed frozen spinach, well-drained)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Zest of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Pinch of nutmeg (optional, enhances creaminess)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional for Baking (like involtini style):
1 cup marinara or simple tomato sauce
1/4 cup grated mozzarella (optional topping)
Instructions
Prepare Eggplant → Brush eggplant slices lightly with olive oil, season with salt & pepper. Grill (or pan-fry) over medium-high heat 2–3 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred. Set aside.
Make Filling → In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, herbs, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Assemble Rolls → Place 1 tbsp filling on the wide end of each eggplant slice, then roll up tightly.
Serve Fresh OR Bake:
Fresh Style → Arrange on a platter, drizzle with olive oil, garnish with basil.
Baked Style → Spread tomato sauce in a baking dish, nestle rolls seam-side down, spoon a little sauce on top, sprinkle mozzarella if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly.
Finish & Serve → Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes & Tips
Extra Creamy → Add a spoonful of cream cheese or mascarpone to the filling.
Vegan Option → Use vegan ricotta (tofu-based) and skip Parmesan.
Make Ahead → Rolls can be assembled a day ahead, refrigerated, then baked before serving.
Add Crunch → Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I roast eggplant instead of grilling?
Yes, brush slices with olive oil, roast at 400°F (200°C) for ~20 minutes until tender.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Yes, baked rolls freeze well. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q: Are they served hot or cold?
Both! They’re delicious warm out of the oven or chilled as a refreshing appetizer.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 230
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g