Grilled Eggplant Rollups
Grilled Eggplant Rollups feature tender slices of grilled eggplant wrapped around a creamy ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, and herb filling. Finished with fresh basil, marinara sauce, or a drizzle of olive oil, these rollups are flavorful, nutritious, and easy to prepare. They make an elegant appetizer, vegetarian main course, or side dish and are perfect for entertaining or meal prep. Their combination of smoky grilled vegetables and creamy filling makes them a standout Mediterranean-inspired recipe.
Ingredients
For the Eggplant
- 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Ricotta Filling
- 1½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving
- 1 cup warm marinara sauce (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Grill the eggplant for 3–4 minutes per side until tender with light grill marks.
- Transfer the grilled slices to a plate and allow them to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, basil, parsley, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread 1–2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture onto one end of each grilled eggplant slice.
- Roll the eggplant tightly around the filling and place seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Serve over warm marinara sauce or drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Choose firm, glossy eggplants for the best texture.
- Slice the eggplant evenly for consistent cooking.
- Salting the slices before grilling can help reduce bitterness.
- Fresh ricotta provides the creamiest filling.
- Fresh herbs enhance the Mediterranean flavor.
- Marinara sauce is optional but adds extra richness.
- These rollups can be served warm or chilled.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.