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Eggplant Rollatini

A delicious and comforting Italian dish featuring thinly sliced eggplant rolled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Eggplant
  • 2 medium eggplants Adds a meaty texture, providing a base for rolling and creating a satisfying bite.
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt Draws moisture from the eggplant and enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup flour Helps the breading stick to the eggplant slices for a crispy coating.
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder Infuses the dish with a hint of aromatic garlic flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Create structure and richness while helping bind the ingredients together.
  • 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs Adds crunch and flavor to the fried eggplant.
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Contributes extra crispiness to the breading.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Used for frying the eggplant, giving it a golden color and rich taste.
For the Filling and Toppings
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Provides a flavorful and tangy sauce that complements the cheese and eggplant.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully and adds creaminess to the dish.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Offers a sharp, nutty flavor and garnishes the dish beautifully.
  • 1/4 cup parsley Adds freshness and color as a garnish.
  • 1 cup Ricotta cheese Creamy base for the filling that binds with other ingredients.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the Ricotta mixture together.
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh garlic contributes robust flavor to the filling.
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley Enhances flavor and complements the freshness of the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil Adds an aromatic herbal note that balances the richness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Provides a classic Italian herb flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavor of the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. STEP 1. Prepare the Eggplant. Cut the eggplant and slice lengthwise. Salt the slices and let sit for 1 hour.
  2. STEP 2. Combine Filling. Combine the Ricotta filling ingredients and set aside.
  3. STEP 3. Set Up Breading Station. Set up a breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Cooking
  1. STEP 4. Bread and Fry. Bread the eggplant slices and fry in heated oil until golden.
  2. STEP 5. Preheat Oven. Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread marinara on a baking dish, fill and roll eggplant slices, and place seam-side down.
  3. STEP 6. Add Toppings. Top with remaining marinara, mozzarella, parmesan, and parsley.
  4. STEP 7. Bake. Bake for 20-25 minutes, and optionally broil for additional browning.
Serving
  1. STEP 8. Rest Before Serving. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, allow flavors to blend beautifully by letting the dish rest before serving. Consider variations such as using goat cheese or mixing in spinach for added nutrition.