Baked Eggplant Rollatini with Ricotta Cheese

Baked Eggplant Rollatini with Ricotta Cheese is a delicious Italian dish that is perfect for any occasion. This dish is made with thinly sliced eggplant that is rolled up with a creamy ricotta cheese filling and baked to perfection. The dish is a perfect combination of savory and creamy flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Serves: 4

Cooking Tips:

- Choose eggplants that are firm and shiny with no bruises or soft spots.
- Slice the eggplants thinly and evenly to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use a mandoline slicer to make the slicing process easier and faster.
- Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese to remove any excess liquid before using it in the filling.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the eggplant slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to remove any excess moisture.
4. Rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with a paper towel.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
7. Take an eggplant slice and spread a spoonful of the ricotta cheese mixture on top.
8. Roll up the eggplant slice and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
9. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices and ricotta cheese mixture.
10. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the eggplant rollatini and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Let the eggplant rollatini cool for a few minutes before serving.
Appearance and Taste:
Baked Eggplant Rollatini with Ricotta Cheese is a beautiful dish that is sure to impress your guests. The eggplant slices are rolled up with a creamy ricotta cheese filling and topped with a rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The dish has a savory and creamy flavor that is perfectly balanced with the tangy tomato sauce. The eggplant is tender and melts in your mouth, while the cheese filling adds a rich and creamy texture. This dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Type of Dish: Italian Appetizer

Main Ingredients:

- Eggplant
- Ricotta Cheese
- Marinara Sauce