Name: Grilled Eggplant Roll-Ups with Ricotta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

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Grilled Eggplant Roll-Ups with Ricotta are a delightful Italian-inspired dish made with thinly sliced grilled eggplant wrapped around a creamy ricotta filling, often enhanced with fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of lemon. These roll-ups are light, flavorful, and perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a vegetarian main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These eggplant roll-ups offer a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors. Grilling the eggplant slices brings out a natural sweetness and adds depth, while the ricotta filling provides a rich, velvety contrast. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or entertaining guests, this dish presents beautifully and satisfies without being overly heavy. Plus, it’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and easily customizable.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Eggplants, thinly sliced lengthwise
Olive oil
Ricotta cheese
Parmesan cheese, grated
Garlic, minced
Fresh basil, chopped
Lemon zest
Salt
Black pepper
Marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

directions

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Brush eggplant slices with olive oil on both sides and season with salt and pepper.
Grill the eggplant slices for about 3–4 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a bowl, combine ricotta, grated Parmesan, garlic, chopped basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture on one end of each grilled eggplant slice and roll it up.
Optional: Spoon some marinara sauce onto a serving platter or baking dish and place the roll-ups on top.
Warm briefly in the oven or serve at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings and takes about 40 minutes from start to finish: 20 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for grilling and assembly.

Variations

Add Spinach: Mix sautéed spinach into the ricotta for extra greens.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling.
Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or feta instead of ricotta for a tangier flavor.
Baked Version: Arrange the roll-ups in a baking dish with marinara sauce and bake until bubbly.
Vegan Alternative: Use plant-based ricotta and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the roll-ups in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the eggplant to become rubbery.

FAQs

How do I prevent the eggplant from becoming too soggy?

Slice the eggplant thinly and salt it before grilling to draw out excess moisture.

Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to serve or heat.

Do I need to peel the eggplant?

No, the peel helps the slices hold their shape during grilling and rolling.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely. Choose your favorite high-quality jarred marinara for convenience.

How do I keep the roll-ups from falling apart?

Make sure the eggplant is grilled until tender but still pliable, and don’t overfill with ricotta.

Is it necessary to grill the eggplant?

Grilling adds a smoky flavor, but you can also roast or pan-fry the slices if needed.

What other herbs work well in the ricotta filling?

Try oregano, thyme, or parsley for different flavor profiles.

Can I freeze the eggplant roll-ups?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the eggplant may become mushy when thawed.

What can I serve with these roll-ups?

They pair well with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or a light pasta dish.

Are these suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and gluten-free.

Conclusion

Grilled Eggplant Roll-Ups with Ricotta are a versatile and elegant dish that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients. Whether served as a starter or main course, they deliver robust flavor and creamy satisfaction in every bite. With easy variations and make-ahead convenience, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.