Zucchini Roll-Ups in Tomato Sauce
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 15
These delightful Zucchini Roll-Ups in Tomato Sauce are a perfect dish for any occasion, blending the freshness of zucchini with a creamy ricotta filling and a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or simply want to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal, this recipe will surely impress with its combination of savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth textures. Ideal for serving a crowd or preparing ahead for a family meal, these roll-ups are versatile and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 350g |
| Ricotta cheese (cow’s milk) | 250g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 30g |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Tomato passata | 300g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (for topping) | 20g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh basil | 3 leaves |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing the zucchini thoroughly and trimming off both ends. Using a mandoline slicer, cut the zucchini into thin slices about 2-3 mm thick, ensuring they are as even as possible for a uniform roll-up. -
Make the Ricotta Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Add in the egg, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Stir everything together using a spoon until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. If your ricotta is too watery, you may want to drain it before using to ensure the filling is thick and creamy. -
Assemble the Roll-Ups:
Lay a slice of zucchini flat on your cutting board. Place a teaspoon of the ricotta mixture at one end of the zucchini slice. Carefully roll up the zucchini around the filling, making a neat little bundle. Repeat the process with the remaining zucchini slices and ricotta mixture. -
Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
Heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic clove, lightly crushed, and sauté it until it becomes fragrant and golden, about 1 minute. Remove the garlic once it’s golden to prevent it from burning. -
Simmer the Sauce:
Add the tomato passata to the pan with the garlic-infused oil. Stir well, and season with salt to taste. Add the fresh basil leaves, tearing them roughly to release their flavor, and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This will help to blend the flavors and create a rich, flavorful base for the zucchini roll-ups. -
Cook the Zucchini Roll-Ups:
Gently place the zucchini roll-ups into the simmering tomato sauce. Cover the pan and allow the roll-ups to cook in the sauce over low heat for about 10-12 minutes, until the zucchini becomes tender and the flavors meld together. -
Finish and Serve:
Once the zucchini is cooked, sprinkle the roll-ups with the remaining grated Parmigiano Reggiano for a deliciously cheesy topping. Serve warm, garnished with a few fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and extra flavor. These zucchini roll-ups are perfect as a light main dish or a side to complement any Italian meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 kcal |
| Protein | ~10g |
| Carbohydrates | ~12g |
| Fat | ~10g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~250mg |
These Zucchini Roll-Ups in Tomato Sauce are a wonderful way to enjoy the natural flavors of fresh vegetables while indulging in a rich and creamy filling. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a satisfying yet lighter meal, this dish will also work great as a side or appetizer at your next dinner gathering. If you’re feeling creative, you can add some extra herbs or even a bit of mozzarella for an extra cheesy touch.
