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Eggplant Roll-Ups with Creamy Ricotta and Spinach

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Eggplant Roll-Ups with Creamy Ricotta and Spinach is a wholesome, low-carb dish that features roasted eggplant slices rolled around a rich ricotta-spinach filling, baked in marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese. A comforting vegetarian alternative to lasagna.

Ingredients

  1. 2 medium eggplants, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick strips
  2. 2 tbsp olive oil
  3. Salt and black pepper, to taste
  4. 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  5. 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup thawed frozen spinach, well-drained)
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  8. 1 egg
  9. 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
  10. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  11. Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

  1. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil on both sides and season with salt and pepper. Arrange on baking sheets in a single layer.
  2. Roast for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly browned. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, garlic, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Spread a spoonful of filling onto each eggplant slice and roll up from the short end.
  5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place roll-ups seam-side down in the dish. Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use part-skim ricotta for a lighter filling or whole-milk for extra creaminess.
  • Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for extra flavor.
  • Red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving.
  • Freeze unbaked roll-ups for up to 2 months; bake from frozen with extended time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/eggplant-roll-ups-with-creamy-ricotta-and-spinach/