Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

Savor the delightful taste of Skinny Eggplant Rollatini, a dish that brings together the best of Italian cuisine in a healthy package. These rolled eggplants, filled with creamy ricotta and spinach, are perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to elegant gatherings. Not only are they gluten-free and low-carb, but they also pack a flavor punch that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with this scrumptious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Guilt-Free: Enjoy the rich flavors without the heavy calories, making it a perfect choice for those on a diet.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is great for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even a snack—perfect for any meal plan.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of cheesy goodness and tender eggplant is sure to impress family and friends alike.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve, saving you time in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Skinny Eggplant Rollatini, gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Large baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Ideal for roasting eggplant slices evenly, ensuring they cook perfectly.
• Large baking dish: Provides ample space to arrange your rollatini without overcrowding, allowing them to bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, leading to a well-blended filling.

Ingredients

Sliced eggplants stuffed with Italian cheese and spinach, then rolled up and baked until tender with loads of ooey-gooey melted cheese on top. These guilt-free Skinny Eggplant Rollatini are scrumptious, gluten free and low carb!

For the Eggplant

• 2 large eggplants

For the Filling

• 1 cup reduced fat ricotta (9 oz/ 250 g)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded light mozzarella (divided in 1/2 cup and 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan
• 9 oz frozen spinach (250 g, thawed and squeezed to remove as much liquid as possible)
• 1 egg
• 1 clove garlic (germ removed, minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup tomato passata (or marinara)

How to Make Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). This ensures that your eggplants cook properly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Eggplant Slices

Remove the ends of the eggplants. Slice them thinly lengthwise. Spray a baking sheet with olive oil. Place about 12 eggplant slices on it. Depending on your oven size, you may need two sheets or bake in batches.

Step 3: Bake Eggplants

Bake for 10 minutes. After baking, remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 4: Make Filling Mixture

While baking, prepare the ricotta/spinach mixture. In a bowl, mix together:
1. Ricotta
2. Mozzarella (1/2 cup)
3. Parmesan
4. Spinach
5. Egg
6. Garlic

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble Rollatini

Spread 1/2 cup of tomato sauce at the bottom of a large baking dish. Take an eggplant slice; generously spread about two heaped tablespoons of the ricotta/spinach mixture on it. Roll it up tightly and place seam side down in the prepared dish.

Step 6: Top with Sauce & Cheese

Continue assembling until all slices are filled. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the rollatini and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella (1 cup).

Step 7: Bake Again

Cover with foil, reduce oven temperature to 350F (175C), and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil after baking time is up; continue baking for another 15 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

After baking is complete, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Enjoy your deliciously healthy Skinny Eggplant Rollatini!

How to Serve Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

Skinny Eggplant Rollatini is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful dish.

With a Side Salad

• A fresh garden salad pairs well, adding crispness and brightness to the meal.

Over Zucchini Noodles

• For a low-carb option, serve the rollatini over spiralized zucchini for added texture and flavor.

With Garlic Bread

• Crusty garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover tomato sauce.

Topped with Fresh Basil

• Garnishing with fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color, enhancing the Italian essence of the dish.

As an Appetizer

• Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings for a tasty finger food option.

How to Perfect Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

Creating the perfect Skinny Eggplant Rollatini requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggplants and high-quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Slice Eggplants Evenly: Consistent slicing ensures even cooking and rolling, leading to a better presentation.
• Squeeze Spinach Well: Remove excess liquid from thawed spinach to prevent a watery filling that could make the rollatini soggy.
• Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on the cheese while baking; you want it golden brown for optimal taste and texture.
• Let It Cool Before Serving: Allowing the rollatini to cool slightly makes it easier to slice and helps the flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

Pairing side dishes with Skinny Eggplant Rollatini enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasted until crispy, this dish adds a nutritious crunch.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf offers a nutty flavor that balances the richness of the rollatini.
4. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons elevate your dining experience.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus adds elegance with its vibrant color and flavor.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses creates a delightful starter before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Skinny Eggplant Rollatini, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Boldly slice eggplants too thick: If your eggplant slices are too thick, they won’t roll properly. Aim for thin, even slices to ensure they bake evenly and are easy to roll.
• Boldly skip squeezing spinach: Not removing excess water from the spinach can lead to a watery filling. Always squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing with other ingredients.
• Boldly overlook seasoning: Failing to season your ricotta mixture can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper, and taste the mixture before spreading it on the eggplant.
• Boldly ignore baking time: Overbaking or underbaking can ruin your dish. Keep an eye on the color of the cheese; it should be golden brown for the best results.
• Boldly rush cooling time: Cutting into the rollatini immediately after baking can cause the filling to spill out. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the rollatini to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Make sure they are well-wrapped or use a vacuum sealer for best results.

Reheating Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

• Boldly use the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Boldly microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover lightly. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Boldly stovetop: Add a splash of water in a skillet, cover, and heat over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Skinny Eggplant Rollatini?

Skinny Eggplant Rollatini is a lighter version of traditional rollatini. It features thin slices of eggplant filled with ricotta, spinach, and cheese, baked in tomato sauce.

How can I customize my Skinny Eggplant Rollatini?

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms into the filling or using different types of cheese based on your preference.

Is Skinny Eggplant Rollatini gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses eggplants instead of pasta sheets.

Can I prepare Skinny Eggplant Rollatini ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble rollatini ahead of time and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Skinny Eggplant Rollatini is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various ingredient substitutions. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to impress anyone looking for a guilt-free option. Try experimenting with different fillings or sauces to make it uniquely yours!