Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 250 g ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the eggplant slices for 10–12 minutes until soft and flexible, then remove and allow to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl combine ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place an eggplant slice on a flat surface and add about 1–2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture near one end.
- Roll the eggplant slice around the filling and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices and filling, arranging the rolls closely together.
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling.
- Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add about 1/2 cup chopped spinach to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a richer filling mix in a small amount of cream cheese or mascarpone.
- Extra herbs such as oregano, parsley, or thyme can enhance the filling.
- Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy topping.
- Pre-baking the eggplant slices helps prevent the rolls from becoming soggy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg