Zucchini Rolls

Zucchini rolls are a light and healthy dish that can be served as an appetizer, light lunch, or dinner. Thin slices of zucchini are filled with a creamy cheese filling, then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce, creating a delicious and impressive dish that will delight both family and guests.

Ingredients

• 3 large zucchini
• 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese
• 3.5 oz (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Kitchen Equipment

• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
• Large bowl
• Baking dish
• Spoon or spatula for mixing
• Oven

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

• Wash the zucchini and trim the ends.
• Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. The slices should be thin enough to roll easily.

2. Make the Filling:

• In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, 3.5 oz (100 g) of grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

• Place a spoonful of the cheese filling on each zucchini slice and roll it up gently to form a roll.

4. Prepare the Baking Dish:

• Pour half of the tomato sauce into a large baking dish.
• Place the zucchini rolls seam side down on top of the sauce.
• Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls.

5. Bake the Rolls:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

6. Finish and Serve:

• After baking, sprinkle the rolls with additional grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
• Let the rolls cool slightly for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Fiber: 3 g

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4

Notes

• Variations: Add chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or other favorite ingredients to the filling to enhance the flavor.
• Tomato Sauce: Use homemade tomato sauce or high-quality store-bought sauce for the best taste.
• Cheese Substitutes: Replace ricotta with cottage cheese or feta, and Parmesan with Pecorino or Grana Padano.
• Adjusting Portions: Increase the quantity of ingredients proportionally to make more servings. For fewer servings, halve the ingredients.

Seasonality

• Summer: Zucchini is most readily available and flavorful in the summer when it is in season.

Presentation

• Serve the zucchini rolls on a large plate, sprinkled with fresh basil and grated Parmesan. They pair well with crusty bread and a side salad.

History of the Recipe

Zucchini rolls draw inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, where vegetables and cheese often come together in delightful and nutritious combinations. This dish is reminiscent of Italian and Greek cooking styles, which emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple preparations that highlight natural flavors. The use of zucchini, a summer vegetable, makes it a seasonal favorite, while the creamy cheese filling and rich tomato sauce add a touch of indulgence.

Tips and Advice

• Zucchini
  • Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices that are easy to roll. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife will work, but take care to slice as evenly as possible.
  • Draining: If the zucchini releases a lot of water, pat the slices dry with paper towels before rolling to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
• Filling
  • Mixing: Ensure the filling is well combined for even flavor distribution. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before filling the zucchini slices.
  • Additional Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even small pieces of cooked chicken for added variety.

Variations and Customizations

• Flavor Additions
  • Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  • Herbs: Try using fresh oregano, thyme, or rosemary in place of or in addition to basil.
• Toppings
  • Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
  • Seeds: Add sesame or sunflower seeds for a nutty flavor.

Enjoy preparing and savoring these delightful zucchini rolls!

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