Slimmed-Down Eggplant Rollatini Recipe: Tasty & Light Joy

Creamy, cheesy, and surprisingly light, this skinny eggplant rollatini recipe delivers all the comfort of a classic Italian dish without the guilt.

Tender eggplant slices get a delightful makeover, turning into delicate rolls packed with rich ricotta and herbs.

We’ve reimagined the traditional recipe to create a healthier version that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.

Every bite promises a perfect balance of textures and tastes that dance across your palate.

The secret lies in smart ingredient swaps and clever cooking techniques that keep things nutritious yet incredibly delicious.

Baked to golden perfection, these rollatini will become your new go-to weeknight dinner that feels like a luxurious treat.

Dive into this mouthwatering dish that proves healthy eating can be absolutely irresistible.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 min

Cook Time: 70 min

Total Time: 85 min

Calories: 200 kcal

Servings: 5

Skinny Eggplant Rollatini Ingredient Guide

• Eggplant: Delivers silky texture and provides a low-carb base for rollatini, select firm and glossy eggplants without blemishes for best results.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds rich, tangy flavor and moisture to the dish, choose a high-quality marinara or homemade sauce for authentic taste.

• Ricotta Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Create creamy, melty layers with complex flavor profiles, opt for fresh, full-fat varieties for maximum richness.

• Spinach: Introduces vibrant green color and nutritional boost, select fresh baby spinach for tender texture and delicate taste.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic depth and zesty undertone, choose fresh cloves for most intense flavor.
• Egg: Binds ingredients together and adds structural integrity to the filling, select organic eggs for best quality.
• Olive Oil: Enables smooth roasting and prevents sticking, use extra virgin for best flavor and health benefits.

Tools for Preparing Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

• Baking sheets: Large, flat pans for roasting eggplant slices evenly.
• Large mixing bowl: For combining ricotta, spinach, and cheese mixture.
• Cutting board: For preparing and slicing eggplants safely.
• Sharp knife: To trim eggplant ends and slice vegetables precisely.
• Measuring cups: For accurate portioning of ingredients like sauce and cheese.
• Foil: To cover the baking dish during initial baking stage.
• Large baking dish: To assemble and bake the eggplant rollatini.
• Spoon or spatula: For spreading sauce and mixing ingredients.

Cooking Instructions for Eggplant Rollatini

Eggplant Rollatini Magic

• Oven Preparation Warmup

Set the oven to a toasty 400°F, creating the perfect environment for our delicious Italian-inspired dish.

• Eggplant Transformation

Slice eggplants into delicate, paper-thin ribbons. Spread them on an olive oil-kissed baking sheet, preparing for their flavor adventure.

• Eggplant Softening

Bake the eggplant slices until they become tender and pliable, about 10 minutes. Allow them to cool and rest.

• Cheesy Spinach Filling

Craft a creamy mixture blending ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped spinach, minced garlic, and a whisked egg. Season with a loving touch of salt and pepper.

• Sauce Foundation

Create a vibrant base by spreading tomato sauce across the bottom of a baking dish, setting the stage for our rollatini.

• Rolling Technique

Generously spread the spinach-cheese mixture onto each eggplant slice. Gently roll each slice into a beautiful spiral, nestling them seam-side down in the saucy dish.

• Cheese Crowning

Lavish the rollatini with remaining tomato sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.

• Baking Finale

Cover with foil, reduce oven temperature to 350°F, and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and continue baking until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.

• Serving Celebration

Allow the rollatini to rest for 10 minutes, letting flavors meld and settle before serving this masterpiece.

Tips to Enhance Skinny Eggplant Rollatini

• Slice and bake eggplant slices in advance, storing them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to speed up dinner preparation.
• Replace ricotta with cottage cheese or swap mozzarella for provolone to create unique flavor profiles that match your taste preferences.
• Add cooked ground turkey, shredded chicken, or crumbled plant-based protein to the ricotta mixture for extra nutrition and heartiness.
• Elevate the dish by mixing fresh chopped basil, oregano, or parsley into the cheese filling for a burst of garden-fresh flavor that transforms the entire meal.
• Skip the traditional rollatini and serve the eggplant and cheese mixture as a delicious casserole for a lighter, easier preparation method that still delivers incredible taste.

Serving Ideas for Eggplant Rollatini

• Dinner Party Delight: Serve this elegant eggplant rollatini as a stunning centerpiece for your next gathering. Plate individual rolls on a white ceramic dish with fresh basil leaves scattered around for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Mediterranean Mezze Spread: Create a vibrant appetizer platter by arranging the rollatini alongside marinated olives, hummus, and warm pita bread. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
• Healthy Weeknight Meal Companion: Pair the rollatini with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette and quinoa for a complete, nutritious dinner. Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top for added crunch and protein.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement the rich, cheesy eggplant rolls with a crisp Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Vermentino. The acidity will cut through the creamy cheese and balance the tomato sauce beautifully.

How to Store Eggplant Rollatini

• Meal Planning & Storage Advice for Skinny Eggplant Rollatini
• Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. The rollatini will stay fresh for 3-4 days, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture.
• Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. These rollatini can be frozen for up to 2 months, providing a convenient make-ahead meal for busy days.
• Reheating Magic: Warm refrigerated rollatini in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to restore crispy edges and melty cheese. Microwave works in a pinch, but might slightly soften the texture.
• Meal Prep Champion: Prepare the entire dish in advance, keeping the unbaked rollatini covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This technique allows for stress-free entertaining and quick weeknight dinners.

Crispy Eggplant Rollatini Recipe

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4.6 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 85 min
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Delightful skinny eggplant rollatini combines Italian culinary finesse with lightened-up ingredients. Baked eggplant slices embrace ricotta and spinach, offering a healthier twist on classic comfort fare you’ll savor with enthusiasm.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large eggplants
• 9 oz (250 g) frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed
• 1 ½ cups shredded light mozzarella
• 1 cup (9 oz/250 g) reduced fat ricotta
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan
• 1 clove garlic, germ removed and minced
• 1 egg
• 1 cup tomato passata or marinara
• salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), creating an optimal cooking environment for the eggplant rollatini.
2. Eggplant Preparation: Slice eggplant lengthwise, lightly spray baking sheets with olive oil, and arrange slices in a single layer. Roast for 10 minutes until slightly caramelized and softened, then cool to room temperature.
3. Filling Creation: Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, egg, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper, blending ingredients into a smooth, cohesive mixture.
4. Assembly: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish. Generously spread the cheese mixture onto each eggplant slice, carefully roll, and position seam-side down in the prepared dish.
5. Final Preparation: Cover the rollatini with remaining tomato sauce and sprinkle additional mozzarella on top. Shield with aluminum foil, reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C), and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Finishing Touch: Remove foil and continue baking for 15 more minutes until cheese turns golden and bubbly. Rest the dish for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and settle.

Notes

• Slice Smartly: Use a sharp knife to create uniform, thin eggplant slices for even cooking and easier rolling.
• Pat and Dry: Blot eggplant slices with paper towels to remove excess moisture, preventing soggy rollatini.
• Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and better melting compared to pre-packaged options.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the rollatini up to a day in advance and refrigerate, allowing flavors to intensify before baking.

• Prep Time: 15 min
• Cook Time: 70 min
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg