Eggplant Lasagna Rollups

Eggplant Lasagna Rollups: A Twist on an Italian Classic

The idea of transforming traditional lasagna into a creative and visually appealing dish has led to the development of eggplant lasagna rollups. This recipe combines the best of Italian cuisine—fresh ricotta, mozzarella cheese, and eggplant—into a delightful meal that is both flavorful and visually stunning.

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Ingredients and Preparation

To make these rollups, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 lb lasagna noodles (not no-boil)
– 3 small Italian eggplants
– 3 Tbsp olive oil
– Black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fresh ricotta cheese
– 1 1/2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
– 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Chopped fresh basil, for topping
– Green salad, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1.

Preheat the Broiler

: Begin by preheating your broiler. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles until al dente, which is 2 to 3 minutes shy of the package directions. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water until they are cooled. Lay them out on kitchen towels to dry.

2.

Prepare the Eggplant

: Trim the eggplants and slice each lengthwise into six ¼-inch-thick pieces. Place them on a rimmed baking sheet, overlapping slightly if necessary. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Broil the eggplant until browned and tender, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Let it cool slightly.

3.

Mix the Ricotta Filling

: Combine the ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, the egg, ¼ teaspoon salt, and a few grinds of pepper in a large bowl.

4.

Prepare the Marinara Sauce

: Pour the marinara sauce into a medium saucepan and stir in the heavy cream. Cook over medium heat until hot.

5.

Assemble the Rollups

:
– Spread about 3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture on each noodle.
– Top each with an eggplant slice, then roll into a spiral.

6.

Bake the Rollups

:
– Spread 1 cup of the sauce in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in the dish.
– Pour the rest of the sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan.
– Bake on the top oven rack at 425˚F until golden and bubbly, about 15 minutes. Let sit 5 minutes before serving. Top with basil and serve with salad.

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Choosing the Right Eggplant

Small Italian eggplants are ideal for this recipe because they fit perfectly inside the noodles, allowing for uniform rollups. Their compact size ensures that each rollup is generously filled without overwhelming the lasagna noodles.

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Tips for Success

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Use Fresh Ingredients

: Fresh ricotta and mozzarella cheese will provide the best flavor and texture.
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Don’t Overcook the Noodles

: Ensure the noodles are al dente to maintain structure and prevent them from falling apart during assembly.
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Broil Eggplant Gently

: Broil the eggplant slices until they are soft and slightly browned, as overcooking can make them brittle.

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Variations and Substitutions

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Meat Addition

: For a heartier version, add cooked ground beef or sausage to the ricotta mixture.
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Veggie Options

: Consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
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Cheese Combinations

: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère or feta for a unique twist.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I prevent eggplant from becoming too bitter?

A: To prevent bitterness, use fresh eggplants and salt the slices before roasting to draw out moisture and reduce bitterness.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?

A: Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or feta to create different flavor profiles.

Q: How do I store leftover rollups?

A: Store leftover rollups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350˚F until warmed through.

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Conclusion

Eggplant lasagna rollups are a creative and delicious spin on traditional lasagna. By combining flavorful ingredients like ricotta, eggplant, and mozzarella, you can create a dish that is both visually appealing and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or weeknight meals, offering a unique twist on a beloved Italian classic.