Grilled Eggplant Rolls in Oven Lena
- Helena Radulovic Toffolon
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
Grilled eggplant rolls are not only an easy recipe to follow but also a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and a tender texture to your lunch table. This dish is perfect for those looking for a light meal that is both satisfying and budget-friendly. The use of eggplant, a vegetable cherished by Italians and many other cultures, adds a rich, savory element to the dish, making it a favorite among vegetable lovers.
Eggplant, known for its versatility, is often featured in various Italian dishes, from hearty pasta sauces to elegant antipasti. Its unique texture and ability to absorb flavors make it an ideal candidate for grilling. When grilled, eggplant becomes soft and smoky, which perfectly complements a variety of fillings, such as cheese, herbs, and vegetables. The result is a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for both casual lunches and more formal gatherings.
Ingredients Needed
To make these grilled eggplant rolls, you will need a few simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. The main ingredient, of course, is the eggplant. Choose firm, shiny eggplants for the best results. In addition to the eggplant, you will need:
- Olive oil: For brushing on the eggplant slices before grilling, which adds flavor and helps achieve that perfect char.
- Salt and pepper: To season the eggplant and enhance its natural flavors.
- Filling ingredients: This could include ricotta cheese, mozzarella, or even a mix of sautéed vegetables and herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.
- Optional toppings: Consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
Preparation Steps
1. Slice the Eggplant: Begin by slicing the eggplant lengthwise into thin strips, about a quarter-inch thick. This thickness will ensure that the eggplant cooks evenly and is pliable enough to roll.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. If you are using an outdoor grill, ensure that the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Season the Eggplant: Brush each slice of eggplant with olive oil on both sides, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. This seasoning will enhance the flavor of the eggplant and help it caramelize beautifully on the grill.
4. Grill the Eggplant: Place the slices on the grill and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook them, as you want them to remain flexible for rolling.
5. Prepare the Filling: While the eggplant is grilling, prepare your filling. If you’re using cheese, mix it with fresh herbs and a pinch of salt. If you prefer a vegetable filling, sauté your chosen vegetables until they are tender.
6. Assemble the Rolls: Once the eggplant slices are done, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly. Place a spoonful of your filling at one end of each slice and carefully roll them up. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
7. Serve: Arrange the grilled eggplant rolls on a platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired. These rolls can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile option for any meal.
Health Benefits
In addition to being delicious, grilled eggplant rolls are a healthy choice. Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. They are also rich in antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which is found in the skin and is known for its health benefits. Including more vegetables in your meals can contribute to better overall health, and this recipe is a fantastic way to do just that.
Conclusion
Grilled eggplant rolls are a wonderful addition to your lunch repertoire. They are easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Whether you are preparing them for yourself or entertaining guests, these rolls are sure to impress. Italians have long celebrated the eggplant, and with this simple recipe, you too can enjoy a dish that is both a culinary delight and a healthy option. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and savor the deliciousness of grilled eggplant rolls!
Ingredients: simple, total time: 45 min. 4 serving
2 eggplants/ cut into lengthwise
150 g of cooked ham
150 g of provolone/ or other stringy cheese
150 g of tomato passato sauce
1 Tbsp fresh basil
50 g of grated Parmesan cheese
1 Tbsp of Olive oil EVO/ or to taste
1-2 clove of garlic/ minced
salt and pepper to taste
little thyme for sprinkle
Preparation:
Wash and clean the eggplant from the stalks and dry them. Then cut them into fillets lengthwise, 5 mm thick.
Fry the eggplants for 3 minutes on each side, and when the slices soften, put them somewhere on the side in a plate.
Fry the garlic in a pan, as soon as it releases the aroma, add the tomato purée and cook for about 10 minutes, add pepper and salt to taste.
Take the cheese and ham and make a rectangular shape.
Put a little sauce on a slice of eggplant and then arrange the base of cheese and ham and one basil leaf each.
Roll the eggplant into buns and pierce them with a toothpick to assemble the ends and arrange them in the oven dish.
Pour the remaining tomato sauce into a bowl and grate the Parmesan cheese over, bake on 180°C, 10 -15 minutes.
Sprinkle with thyme over, serve.
Buon appetito!
"May your kitchen always be filled with wonderful aromas, your table with good food and your heart with the joy of sharing" ☕❤️🌹
NOTE:
Instead of provolone cheese, you can use mozzarella or Gouda cheese.
Keep eggplant rolls covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Heat in a pan or microwave.
Do you want to try something a little different?
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