Eggplant rollatini

Eggplant rollatini

Eggplant Rollatini is a classic Italian-American dish that combines the rich flavors of eggplant, cheese, and tomato sauce into a delightful culinary experience. This dish is a variation of the traditional Italian dish, involtini, which means "little bundles". The main ingredient, eggplant, is sliced thinly, grilled or fried, and then rolled with a filling that typically includes ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese, along with herbs like basil and parsley. The rolls are then covered in tomato sauce and baked until the cheese is bubbly and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ingredients

The key ingredients in Eggplant Rollatini include:

• Eggplant - the base of the dish, providing a meaty texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
• Ricotta cheese - a creamy cheese that forms the bulk of the filling.
• Mozzarella cheese - adds a stretchy, melty quality to the filling.
• Parmesan cheese - lends a sharp, salty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Tomato sauce - adds moisture and a tangy flavor, complementing the eggplant and cheese.
• Basil and Parsley - fresh herbs that brighten the dish and add a hint of freshness.
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper - for seasoning and cooking the eggplant.

Preparation

The preparation of Eggplant Rollatini involves several steps:

1. The eggplant is sliced lengthwise into thin strips, salted to remove bitterness, and then either grilled or fried until tender.
2. Each slice of eggplant is then laid out and filled with a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and chopped herbs.
3. The eggplant slices are rolled up around the cheese mixture to form little bundles.
4. The rolls are placed in a baking dish, covered with tomato sauce, and sprinkled with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. The dish is baked in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the flavors have melded together.

Serving

Eggplant Rollatini is typically served hot, often as a main dish accompanied by a side of pasta, bread, or a salad. It can also be served as an appetizer or side dish in smaller portions.

Variations

While the traditional Eggplant Rollatini is beloved for its simplicity and depth of flavor, there are numerous variations of the dish. Some may include different types of cheese, such as provolone or pecorino romano, or the addition of other ingredients in the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or ground meat. The tomato sauce can also be replaced or complemented with a béchamel sauce for a creamier version of the dish.

Cultural Significance

Eggplant Rollatini is a testament to the Italian-American community's ability to adapt traditional Italian recipes to suit local tastes and ingredients. It showcases the versatility of eggplant and the Italian love for dishes that are both comforting and flavorful. This dish is often featured in Italian-American restaurants and is a favorite at family gatherings and special occasions.