Easy Eggplant Rollatini recipe: best Greek casserole - Munchyesta (2024)

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Easy Eggplant Rollatini recipe – These delicious Greek-style stuffed eggplant rolls embody everything a foodie dreams of. Picture soft, almost creamy eggplants filled with bulgur, fresh herbs, spices, and creamy cheese filling made with feta cheese or tofu. If you love eggplant this delicious Greek twist on eggplant rolls tastes like eggplant Parmesan meets the best Greek eggplant casserole. It’s one of the best eggplant recipes ever! This eggplant recipe is incredibly tasty and great for healthy eating and a low calorie diet.

There’s nothing quite as delicious and mouthwatering as a homemade Greek meal. Imagine tender eggplants, creamy feta, and an abundance of herbs and spices. This recipe epitomizes Greek cooking at its finest. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavors, and crafted with fresh vegetables.

This is one of my favorite Greek recipes, not only because it’s mouthwateringly delicious, but also because it’s healthy, low in calories, and packed with nutrients. Try making this healthy Greek twist on the popular Italian side dish for a special occasion, or your next family meal.

Delicious Eggplant Rollatini Recipe: A Taste of Mediterranean Bliss

Indulge in the culinary delights of the Mediterranean with our irresistible eggplant rollatini recipe. Bursting with flavor and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a true standout in Greek cuisine.

Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients

Our recipe features fresh eggplants, aubergines, stuffed with a delectable mixture of bulgur, fragrant herbs, and creamy Feta cheese. Each bite offers a symphony of flavors, from the earthiness of the eggplant to the tanginess of the Feta cheese, all complemented by aromatic herbs and spices.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Greek cuisine, our eggplant rollatini embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking. With ingredients like olive oil, thyme, parsley, and Greek spice mix, every bite transports you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece. It’s a great side dish the whole family will enjoy. Make it a complete meal with a simple side salad and a crusty bread to scoop up all the cheesy eggplant casserole recipe sauce.

Easy Preparation and Versatile eggplant casserole

Crafted with simplicity in mind, our recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans alike. Think layers of tender eggplants, delicious filling and amazing cheesy goodness.

Eggplant rollatini Healthy recipe

Not only is our eggplant rollatini delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. Eggplants are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients, while bulgur provides a hearty dose of whole grains. Combined with the goodness of fresh herbs and olive oil, this dish offers a nutritious and wholesome dining experience.

Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing baked eggplant rolls

Whether you’re serving it as a main course or appetizer, our eggplant rollatini is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Its comforting flavors and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

In summary, our delicious eggplant rollatini recipe combines fresh eggplant, simple ingredients, Mediterranean inspiration, easy preparation, health benefits, and crowd-pleasing appeal, making it a must-try dish for anyone seeking a taste of Mediterranean bliss.

In this healthy eggplant rollatini recipe we’re covering

• What makes these vegetarian eggplant rollatini healthy and delicious
• Brief rollatini history: what is eggplant rollatini
• Equipment needed to make baked eggplant rollatini without meat
• Eggplant rollatini ingredients
• Tips for making the best eggplant rollatini ever
• How to cut eggplant
• Easy baked eggplant rollatini recipe
• How to make eggplant rollatini
• Delicious eggplant rollatini recipe variations
• Ways to serve healthy eggplant rolls
• How to store and reheat eggplant rolls
• Greek Eggplant rollatini recipe FAQ

What’s great about this Vegetarian Greek Style Stuffed Aubergine Rolls Recipe:

1. Delicious Flavor: This recipe combines a variety of flavorful ingredients such as eggplant, bulgur or couscous, vegetables, herbs, spices, and feta cheese, resulting in a dish that is rich in taste and texture.

2. Versatility: You can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the filling ingredients or seasoning to your liking. Whether you’re vegetarian or vegan, there are plenty of options to make it your own.

3. Nutritious: Eggplant is a nutritious vegetable that is low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Combined with other wholesome ingredients like bulgur or couscous, vegetables, and herbs, this simple ingredients dish offers a balanced and nutritious meal.

4. Mediterranean Flavors: Inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, this great recipe incorporates classic flavors such as olive oil, feta cheese, olives, and Greek spices, providing a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.

5. Satisfying and Filling: Eggplant rollatini is a satisfying dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. The combination of eggplant, filling, and sauce makes for a hearty and filling meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.

6. Great for Meal Prep: This recipe can be made in advance and stored for later consumption, making it perfect for meal prep or batch cooking. You can also freeze leftovers for future meals. It’s a great choice for advance planning, cutting way down on your prep time the for the next time you need a quick and delicious meal. Expert tip: make a double batch of cheesy eggplant casserole recipe and freeze the rest of the eggplant for later.

Overall, this eggplant rollatini recipe is a delicious, versatile, and nutritious dish that is sure to please your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. Give it a try and experience the greatness for yourself!

Brief Eggplant Rollatini History: What is Eggplant Rollatini?

Eggplant Rollatini, also known as “Involtini di Melanzane,” is a delightful Italian dish that has found its way into Greek cuisine. Originating from Italy, “rollatini” comes from the word “rollare,” meaning to roll. Traditionally, thin slices of eggplant are rolled around a rich filling, often featuring ricotta cheese and herbs, then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce.

The Greek version of eggplant rollatini embraces Mediterranean flavors by incorporating ingredients like feta cheese, olives, and a variety of fresh herbs and spices. This adaptation not only adds a unique twist but also highlights the versatility and cultural blending of Mediterranean cuisines.

Eggplant rollatini is beloved for its comforting texture, savory fillings, and the way it showcases the eggplant’s ability to absorb and complement bold flavors, making it a favorite in both Italian and Greek culinary traditions.

Equipment needed to make baked eggplant rollatini without meat

To make baked eggplant rollatini without meat, you’ll need the following equipment:

1.Baking Pan:A baking pan or casserole dish to assemble and bake the eggplant rollatini. Choose a pan that is large enough to accommodate all the rolled eggplant slices without overcrowding.

2. Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife for slicing the eggplant and other vegetables.You can use a serrated knife, santoku knife, sharp paring knife, or a sharp knife of your choice.

3. Cutting Board: A sturdy and stable cutting board to slice the eggplant and prepare the filling ingredients.

4.Skillet or Grill Pan:A skillet or grill pan to cook the eggplant slices until tender and golden. This step helps to soften the eggplant and develop flavor before assembling the rollatini.

5.Mixing Bowl:A small mixing bowl to combine the filling ingredients, such as cooked bulgur or couscous, diced vegetables, herbs, spices, and cheese.

6.Measuring Spoons:Measuring spoons to accurately measure out the quantities of herbs, spices, and other ingredients.

7.Brush or Basting Brush:A brush or basting brush to lightly coat the eggplant slices with olive oil before seasoning and cooking.

8.Spatula or Tongs:A spatula or tongs to flip the eggplant slices while cooking in the skillet or grill pan.

9.Oven:An oven to bake the assembled eggplant rollatini until heated through and golden brown.

10.Aluminum Foil:Aluminum foil to cover the baking pan while baking, if needed, to prevent the rollatini from drying out.

With these basic kitchen tools and equipment, you’ll be well-equipped to make delicious baked eggplant rollatini without meat.

Eggplant rollatini ingredients

Greek Eggplant Rollatini: A Culinary Adventure with Every Bite!

Welcome to our delightful kitchen adventure! Today, we’re diving into the rich, flavorful world of Greek cuisine with our incredible Greek Eggplant Rollatini. Below, you’ll find a rundown of our star ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating this mouth-watering dish. Let’s get rolling!

1. Olive Oil (3 tbsp)

– Adds a silky texture and enhances the flavors of our dish.

2. Eggplants (3)

– The raw eggplants are the star of our rollatini, providing a tender, flavorful eggplant (or aubergine for my UK friends reading this) base for the filling. I like to use a larger eggplant like Italian eggplants for making eggplant rolls, because they make it easier to cut the eggplant slices and make larger rollatini. Alternatively, you can also use globe eggplant, smaller eggplants, Chinese eggplant, or Japanese eggplants to make this recipe. Slice lengthwise to get as large slices of eggplant as possible. Tip: if the skin of your eggplant is too thick or rough, you can use a vegetable peeler to peel it off.

3. Dry Bulgur or Couscous (1/2 cup, cooked)

– Offers a hearty, nutty texture to the stuffing, making it satisfying and wholesome. I like to use leftover couscous from last night’s dinner when I make these stuffed eggplants. It’s the easiest way to transform leftovers into a delicious meal.

4. Red Onion (1, diced)

– Adds a sweet and savory depth to the stuffing.

5. Red Bell Pepper (1, finely diced)

– Brings a fresh, sweet crunch and vibrant color to the base layer filling.

6. Black Olives (10, chopped and pits removed)

– Infuses the dish with a briny, slightly salty flavor that’s quintessentially Greek.

7. Dried Thyme (1 tsp)

– Adds an aromatic, earthy flavor that complements the vegetables perfectly.

8. Greek Spice Mix (2 tbsp, divided)

– Packed with traditional Greek herbs and spices, it elevates the dish with authentic flavors. Alternatively, you can use Italian seasoning to make this hearty eggplant casserole.

9. Sea Salt (1 tsp)

– Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients.

10. Fresh Parsley (1 bunch, chopped)

– Adds a fresh, herby brightness that lightens and balances the dish.

11. Feta Cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled and divided into 2)

– Adds a creamy, tangy richness both inside the rolls and on top.Alternatively, you can substitute the feta cheese with Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, or vegan ricotta cheese, to get that delicious creamy ricotta filling that’s typically used in Italian Eggplant baked casserole.

Topping Ingredients:

12. Diced Tomatoes or Fire Roasted Tomatoes or Pasta Sauce (1 can)

– Provides a rich, savory sauce that ties all the flavors together.Alternatively, you can make a delicious Tomato sauce for rollatini with store-bought tomato sauce, or your favorite red sauce with a bit of fresh oregano added.

13. Pine Nuts (3 tbsp)

– Adds a delightful crunch and a hint of buttery flavor to the topping. Alternatively, you can leave them out of you prefer, or substitute with a single layer of sprinkled bread crumbsto get that eggplant parmigiana golden perfection crust.

Get ready to experience a burst of Mediterranean flavors with every bite of our Greek Eggplant Rollatini. Happy cooking, and Opa!

Tips for making the best eggplant rollatini ever

Vegan Greek-Style Stuffed Eggplant Rolls

These Greek-style stuffed aubergine rolls traditionally feature feta cheese, as they do in Greece. However, if you’re vegan, don’t worry—I have some fantastic alternatives for you!

Option 1: Cheese-Free Version

For a simple, dairy-free option, leave out the cheese altogether. This version is still incredibly delicious because the eggplants and spices take center stage. While it’s tasty, it’s my least favorite because it lacks the creamy texture of cheese.You can substitute the cheese with a vegan pesto to give the dish a delicious Italian restaurant flavor without the need for cheese. Top with fresh basil for a fresh finish.

Option 2: Silken Tofu (My Favorite!)

Replace the feta cheese with silken tofu. This option is amazing because the creamy texture of silken tofu mimics that of feta cheese, providing a similar freshness. I recommend adding extra spices when using tofu to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Option 3: Store-Bought Vegan Feta

Use vegan feta cheese from the grocery store. This option works almost as well as traditional feta and delivers a satisfying taste and texture. I highly recommend trying it!

With these options, you can enjoy the rich, savory flavors of Greek-style stuffed eggplant rolls, whether you’re vegan or just looking to try something new!

Choosing Your Greek Spice Mix

For this recipe, you can use your favorite Greek spice mix. The seasoning you choose will greatly influence the final flavor, as it forms the foundation of the dish.

You can opt for any store-bought spice mix or make your own if you’re a spice enthusiast like me. I have an extensive spice collection because I love buying new spices and blends whenever I travel. My favorite Greek spice mix is a gyros blend I discovered on a trip to Greece and have since replicated at home. You can find the recipe for my gyros spice mix here.

Making your own seasoning is a great way to add extra flavors to flavorful meals.

How to cut eggplant

To cut eggplant for making rollatini, follow these steps:

1.Wash the Eggplant:Rinse the eggplant under cold water and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.

2. Trim the Ends: Hold onto the eggplant with your non-dominant hand with a firm hold and use your dominant hand to hold the knife.

Using a sharp knife, cut off the top of the eggplant and trim off the blossom ends of the eggplant.

3. Slice Lengthwise: Place the eggplant on a cutting board, and using a sharp knife, slice it lengthwise into thin, even slices, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Aim for lengthwise strips that are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking. Alternatively, you can use a Mandoline slicer to get even size slices in a few simple steps. It’s an excellent choice to get long planks of evenly sized eggplant planks.

4. Optional: Salt the Slices (if desired): Some recipes recommend salting the eggplant slices to draw out excess moisture and reduce bitterness. To draw out the bitter flavors, lay the long pieceson a paper towel-lined baking sheet, sprinkle both sides with salt, and let them sit for about 30 minutes. Then, pat dry with paper towels before using.

5.Brush with Oil and Season:Brush each eggplant slice lightly with olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. Season generously with your desired herbs and spices, such as dried thyme, oregano, or a Greek spice mix.

6.Proceed with the Recipe:Once the eggplant slices are prepared, you can proceed with filling and rolling them to make delicious eggplant rollatini.

By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly sliced eggplant ready for making delicious rollatini!

Making Stuffed Eggplant Rolls: how to make eggplant rollatini the best way

Many people struggle with cooking eggplants because they act like sponges before they’re cooked, soaking up any liquid they encounter. This means they can absorb a lot of oil, which can make them greasy, mushy, and rubbery. To avoid this, be mindful of how much oil you use. Properly cooked eggplant should be tender and flavorful, not oily and unappealing. When I hear someone say they don’t like eggplants, I know they’ve probably had poorly cooked ones. Follow these tips to get perfectly cooked eggplants every time.How to Cook eggplants the right way

Cooking Eggplants Made Easy

Contrary to popular belief, cooking eggplants is quite simple once you know the technique. Here’s how to get perfectly cooked eggplants every time:

1.Use Minimal Olive Oil:Just brush on a tiny amount of olive oil and add plenty of seasoning.

2.High Heat, Then Slow Cook:Start by cooking the eggplants on a very hot pan or grill to quickly sear and close their pores. Then, lower the heat to medium and let them cook slowly until they soften.

Follow these steps, and your eggplants will always turn out tender, delicious, and wonderfully soft. Yum!

How are these Greek Style Stuffed Eggplant Rolls made? It’s so easy:

Easy baked eggplant rollatini recipe

Greek Eggplant Rollatini Recipe

Experience the irresistible flavors of the Mediterranean with our Greek Eggplant Rollatini! This delightful dish features tender eggplant slices rolled with a savory filling of bulgur, fresh vegetables, and crumbled feta cheese, all baked to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!

Greek Eggplant Rollatini Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 eggplants
• 1/2 cup dry bulgur or couscous, cooked
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 10 black olives, chopped and pits removed
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp Greek spice mix, divided
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled and divided

Topping:

• 1 can diced tomatoes, fire roasted tomatoes, or pasta sauce
• 3 tbsp pine nuts

How to make eggplant rollatini

1.Preheat Oven:Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a baking pan with olive oil or vegetable oil.

2.Prepare Eggplants:Rinse the eggplants and cut off the ends. Slice lengthways into thin pieces. Lightly brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and season generously with thyme, Greek spice mix, and sea salt.

3.Cook Eggplants:Heat a large skillet or grill. Cook the eggplant slices for 3-5 minutes on each side until they start to soften and turn golden. They should be almost cooked through but still pliable for rolling.

4. Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bulgur or couscous, diced red onion, chopped black olives, diced red bell pepper, 1 tablespoon of Greek spice mix, fresh chopped parsley, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix well.

5. Assemble Rollatini: Remove the eggplant slices from the heat. Top each slice with a tablespoon of the bulgur mixture and some crumbled feta cheese. Roll each slice into a roll and place in the prepared baking dish.

Last steps

6. Add Toppings: Arrange the eggplant rolls in the pan or oven-safe dish. Pour the diced tomatoes or pasta sauce over the pieces of eggplant rolls and drizzle with a little olive oil.

7.Bake:Cook the eggplant rollatini in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender.

8.Finish and Serve:Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining feta cheese and pine nuts on top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Greek eggplant rollatini!

Tip: Serve this delicious recipe with a side of fresh Greek bread or crusty Italian bread and a glass of white wine.

Delicious eggplant rollatini recipe variations

Whether you’re vegetarian or vegan, these creative twists on the classic dish offer a burst of flavor and culinary excitement. From creamy ricotta and spinach to hearty lentils and vegetables, there’s a delicious option to suit every palate. Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that’s sure to delight your taste buds!

Vegetarian Variations:

1. Ricotta and Spinach Eggplant Rollatini:

– Fill the eggplant slices with a mixture of ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, garlic, and nutmeg. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese before baking.

2. Mushroom and Goat Cheese Eggplant Rollatini:

– Stuff the eggplant slices with a mixture of sautéed portabella mushrooms, garlic, thyme, and creamy goat cheese. Bake with a simple tomato sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a perfect side dish.

3. Caprese Eggplant Rollatini:

– Roll the eggplant slices with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Top with marinara sauce and a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

Vegan Variations:

1. Tofu and Spinach Eggplant Rollatini:

– Use silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, and sautéed spinach as the filling. Top with a marinara sauce and bake until bubbly it’s a family favorite way to enjoy a vegan Parmesan casserole.

2. Lentil and Vegetable Eggplant Rollatini:

– Fill the eggplant slices with a mixture of cooked lentils, diced zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. Use a vegan cheese or leave it out for a lighter option. Top with tomato sauce and bake.

3. Cashew Cream and Herb Eggplant Rollatini:

– Blend soaked cashews with garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs to create a creamy filling. Roll into the eggplant slices and bake with a homemade tomato sauce.

These variations provide a range of flavors and textures, ensuring there’s a delicious eggplant rollatini option for everyone!

Ways to serve healthy eggplant rolls

Here are some delicious ways to serve eggplant rollatini:

1. As a Main Course: Serve the eggplant rollatini as the star of the meal, accompanied by a simple salad or crusty bread. It makes for a satisfying and flavorful main dish.

2. With Pasta: Serve the eggplant rollatini alongside cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, tossed in a light tomato or garlic sauce. The combination of pasta and rollatini creates a hearty and comforting meal.

3. On a Bed of Greens: Serve the eggplant rollatini over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens complements the richness of the rollatini perfectly.

4. With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the eggplant rollatini with roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. The roasted vegetables add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

5. Alongside Rice or Quinoa: Serve the eggplant rollatini with cooked rice or quinoa for a wholesome and nutritious meal. The grains soak up the delicious sauce from the rollatini, making each bite even more flavorful.

6. As Appetizers or Tapas: Cut the eggplant rollatini into smaller pieces and serve as appetizers or tapas at a party or gathering. They’re perfect for sharing and are sure to be a hit with guests.

7. With Garlic Bread: Serve the eggplant rollatini alongside garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired meal. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to satisfy any craving.

However you choose to serve it, eggplant rollatini is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to impress!

How to store eggplant rollatini and reheat it

To store leftover eggplant rollatini properly, follow these steps:

1.Cool Down:Allow the eggplant rollatini to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the rollatini soggy.

2.Transfer to an Airtight Container:Place the leftover eggplant rollatini in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the rollatini without squishing or damaging them.

3.Refrigerate:Store the container of eggplant rollatini in the refrigerator. Properly stored, leftover rollatini will keep for up to 3-4 days.

4.Reheat:When ready to enjoy the leftover eggplant rollatini, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically until warmed to your liking.

5.Serve:Once reheated, serve the eggplant rollatini hot and enjoy!

By following these steps, you can safely store and reheat leftover eggplant rollatini for later enjoyment.

What I’ve been making lately

• Best Homemade Steak Fries: deep fried or baked recipe
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• Easy Weight Watchers dessert recipes: top ww desserts
• Easy Homemade Banana Ice cream recipe (how to make)

Greek Eggplant rollatini recipe FAQ

Carbs in eggplant rollatini

The number of carbohydrates in eggplant rollatini can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe. However, I can provide a rough estimate based on a typical recipe.

Here’s a breakdown of the main sources of carbohydrates in eggplant rollatini:

1. Eggplant: One medium-sized eggplant contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

2. Bulgur or Couscous: 1/2 cup of cooked bulgur or couscous contains approximately 22-25 grams of carbohydrates.

3. Onion, bell pepper, olives, tomatoes, and other vegetables: These ingredients contribute a small amount of carbohydrates, usually around 1-5 grams per serving.

4. Feta cheese: Feta cheese contains minimal carbohydrates, typically less than 1 gram per serving.

To calculate the total carbohydrates in eggplant rollatini, you would need to add up the carbs from each ingredient used in the recipe and divide by the number of servings.

For a more accurate calculation, you can input the specific quantities of ingredients you used into a nutrition calculator or refer to the nutrition label on packaged ingredients.

Ideas for what to serve with Eggplant rolls

• Easy homemade focaccia bread
• Salsa dip
• Easy yeastless naan bread
• Vegan brisket
• Easy vegan beer roast
• Maple sesame roast potatoes
• Hasselback Sweet potatoes

DID YOU MAKE THIS DELICIOUS RECIPE?

Please leave us a review in the comments below and let us know how it turned out 🙂

Recipe originally published August 23, 2020

Recipe updated June 2, 2024

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