These Eggplant Roll-Ups with Tomato and Cheese are a delightful and healthy dish perfect for dinner. Thinly sliced eggplants are filled with a flavorful tomato and vegetable sauce, then baked with cheese until golden and bubbly. This recipe is both easy to make and delicious, making it a great option for a family meal.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 eggplants
- Water
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 onions
- Vegetable oil
- 2 peppers
- 4 tomatoes
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Provencal herbs (to taste)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 5 oz (150g) cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- Cut the eggplants into very thin slices. The slices must be very thin to roll easily.
- Place the eggplant slices in a bowl of water with 1 tbsp of salt.
- Cover with a lid and leave to soak for 15 minutes. This helps to remove any bitterness.
- Prepare the Vegetable Sauce:
- Finely chop the onions.
- Heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the onions until they are soft.
- Dice the peppers and add them to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes over low heat.
- Dice the tomatoes and add them to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Provencal herbs to taste.
- Mince the garlic and add it to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Using a blender, grind the vegetables into a smooth sauce.
- Assemble the Roll-Ups:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain the eggplant slices and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Roll up each eggplant slice.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the vegetable sauce.
- Place the rolled-up eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the eggplant rolls.
- Bake the Roll-Ups:
- Grate the cheese and sprinkle it over the top of the eggplant rolls.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- These eggplant roll-ups are great served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
- They also pair well with a light pasta dish or a quinoa salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the eggplant slices are very thin to make rolling easier.
- Adjust the seasoning of the vegetable sauce to your taste, adding more herbs or garlic if desired.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggplants: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Tomatoes: High in vitamins C and K, and antioxidants like lycopene.
- Garlic: Contains compounds with potent medicinal properties.
Dietary Information:
- This dish is vegetarian.
- For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and cheese for a balanced meal.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for any home cook.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or a side, and great for family dinners.
Conclusion:
These Eggplant Roll-Ups with Tomato and Cheese are a delicious and healthy option for dinner. With their flavorful vegetable sauce and melted cheese topping, they are sure to be a hit with your family. Enjoy this easy-to-make and satisfying dish, perfect for any night of the week. Bon appétit!