NONNA NELLA EGGPLANT ROLLS (EGGPLANT ROLLATINI)

Eggplant rolls or Eggplant Rollatini with mozzarella and prosciutto are a tasty and easy-to-prepare dish.

In the Nonna Nella recipe the eggplant is grilled, so it is a fairly light dish that you can serve as a main course or as an appetizer.

Eggplant Rolls are a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender slices of eggplant with a creamy, savory filling, rolled into bite-sized parcels of perfection. These rolls are typically stuffed with ingredients like ricotta cheese, spinach, or mozzarella, then baked in a rich tomato sauce until bubbling and golden. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course, Nella Eggplant Rolls are a flavorful addition to any meal.

In this article, we’ll walk you through making these delicious eggplant rolls, share tips for achieving the best results, and suggest variations to make the dish your own.

Eggplant Rolls Recipe

*Makes about 10 Eggplant Rolls

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 or 2 eggplants (depending on size, you need to get 10 slices about 1/4 inch thick)
• 1 mozzarella (about 7 ounces)
• 5 slices of cooked ham
• 2/3 cup of tomato sauce
• oregano to taste
• salt to taste
• extra virgin olive oil to taste
• basil leaves to taste

METHOD:

Wash the eggplants, remove the ends, cut them into slices about 1/4 inch thick and grill them.

Prepare the sauce by pouring a drizzle of oil into a pan, then add the tomato, a pinch of salt, oregano and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Cut the mozzarella in half and then into sticks, and cut the slices of cooked ham in half.

Arrange on each eggplant slice a half slice of prosciutto and a mozzarella stick and roll up forming the roulade.

Arrange the eggplant rolls on the tomato sauce and spread some sauce on top as well, heat on the stove for 2 to 3 minutes until the mozzarella has melted.

Add a few basil leaves.

Serve hot.

Recipe Tips

1. Choose firm eggplants: Look for eggplants with smooth, shiny skin for the best texture.
2. Roast, don’t fry: Roasting the eggplant slices keeps them tender and light without added oil.
3. Drain the ricotta: If your ricotta is watery, drain it in a cheesecloth-lined strainer for a few hours.
4. Customize the filling: Add your favorite herbs, cooked sausage, or even mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.

Variations

1. Cheesy Delight: Add feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
2. Meaty Option: Include cooked ground beef or Italian sausage in the filling for a heartier dish.
3. Vegetarian Spin: Replace spinach with roasted zucchini or mushrooms for a different veggie flavor.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce or filling for a hint of heat.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Serve with garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Pasta: Pair with spaghetti aglio e olio or creamy Alfredo sauce for a hearty meal.
• As a Starter: Serve as an appetizer alongside a fresh green salad.
• With Wine: Pair with a dry red wine like Chianti or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio.

Conclusion

Eggplant Rolls are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a light main course or a satisfying side, these rolls combine tender eggplant, creamy cheese, and a rich tomato sauce for an unforgettable meal. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Italian-inspired comfort to your kitchen!