Give your next dinner a nutritious twist with this *Heart-Healthy Eggplant Rollatini*, a lighter, Mediterranean-inspired take on a classic Italian favorite. Tender roasted eggplant slices are stuffed with a creamy filling of part-skim ricotta, grated Parmesan, fresh spinach, and fragrant basil, then rolled up and nestled in a no-salt-added tomato sauce. Topped with a sprinkle of gooey mozzarella, this wholesome dish is baked to perfection for a satisfying yet low-sodium, heart-smart meal. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to indulge without guilt, this recipe is a flavorful, nutrient-packed option for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a finishing touch that bursts with freshness!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the eggplants lengthwise into 1/4 inch slices. You should get about 8-10 slices per eggplant.
Lay the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Rinse the eggplant slices under cool water to remove the salt, then pat them dry with paper towels.
Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides.
Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, basil, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Pour 1 cup of tomato sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Place a heaping tablespoon of the ricotta filling onto the wider end of each eggplant slice, then roll it up tightly.
Arrange the rolled eggplant seams down in the baking dish over the sauce.
Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired.
Serving size | 2180.1 grams (2180.1g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1371 |
Total Fat 75.50g | 97% |
Saturated Fat 32.00g | 160% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.60g | |
Cholesterol 170mg | 57% |
Sodium 5605mg | 244% |
Total Carbohydrate 116.50g | 42% |
Dietary Fiber 46.60g | 166% |
Total Sugars 67.40g | |
Protein 78.80g | 158% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 1882mg | 145% |
Iron 11mg | 63% |
Potassium 5197mg | 111% |
Source of Calories