Balsamic Glazed Eggplant Feta Rollatini
An Irresistibly Flavorful Vegan Italian Appetizer
Eggplant Rollatini is a delightful, Italian-inspired dish that offers a perfect blend of fresh, vibrant flavors. Traditionally, rollatini is baked in the oven, but this quick and easy recipe opts for pan-frying, resulting in a golden, crisp texture that’s hard to resist. The star of this dish is the delicate eggplant, pan-fried to perfection, then stuffed with a savory mix of feta cheese, olives, tomatoes, and herbs. Topped with a rich balsamic glaze, this recipe is both simple and sophisticated, making it a great appetizer or light entrée. The addition of fresh basil, garlic, and sea salt enhances the Mediterranean flavors, while the radish salad provides a crunchy, refreshing contrast.
This Balsamic Glazed Eggplant Feta Rollatini Recipe is perfect for a vegan or vegetarian diet, showcasing how you can transform humble eggplant into a gourmet treat with just a few key ingredients. The preparation time is quick, and the cook time is equally efficient, making it ideal for a weekday meal or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brinjal (Baingan / Eggplant) | 2 medium-sized |
| Feta Cheese | 100 grams |
| Homemade Marinara Sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Dried Oregano | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Basil Leaves | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Red Radish | 2, thinly sliced |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 4 teaspoons |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 2 teaspoons |
| Black Olives | 3, chopped |
| Sea Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Sodium | 230 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 40 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplant
Start by washing the eggplants thoroughly and slicing them lengthwise into long, even strips. Aim for thin slices, but make sure they are of uniform thickness for even cooking. Lay the slices on a platter, drizzle with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, sprinkle with dried oregano, and season with sea salt. Let the slices rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Prepare the Filling
While the eggplant slices are resting, prepare the stuffing. Crumble or grate the feta cheese into a bowl, and mix in the chopped black olives. This savory mixture will add a delightful richness and a briny contrast to the eggplant.
3. Pan-Fry the Eggplant
Heat a large pan over low to medium heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the eggplant slices in the pan. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and tender. The key here is to cook on a low flame to avoid burning the slices. Once cooked, remove the slices and set them aside on a clean platter.
4. Assemble the Rollatini
Now it’s time to fill the eggplant slices. Spread an even layer of marinara sauce over each slice, followed by the crumbled feta and olive mixture. Add a few chopped basil leaves and some chopped tomato to each slice for an extra burst of flavor. Carefully roll each slice into a cylinder, securing the filling inside.
5. Fry the Rollatini
In the same pan, heat a little more olive oil. Place the rolled eggplant slices into the pan and fry them for a few minutes on each side, allowing the rollatini to crisp up and become slightly golden. After frying, drizzle with balsamic vinegar to give the dish a sweet and tangy glaze.
6. Prepare the Radish Salad
While the rollatini is frying, thinly slice the red radishes and sprinkle them with a pinch of sea salt. This fresh radish salad adds a crunchy contrast to the tender eggplant and balances the richness of the feta.
7. Serve and Garnish
Once the rollatini is ready, place them on a serving platter. Arrange the radish salad on the side for a refreshing accompaniment. Serve the Balsamic Glazed Eggplant Feta Rollatini warm as a delectable appetizer, and enjoy the perfect harmony of Mediterranean flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Balsamic Glazed Eggplant Feta Rollatini alongside a fresh, green salad or pair it with a side of crispy garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired meal. For a more substantial meal, it pairs beautifully with pasta dishes like Spinach Basil Cottage Cheese Lasagna or a light risotto.
This dish is perfect for a vegetarian or vegan appetizer at any dinner party or casual gathering, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors that will impress your guests. The tangy balsamic vinegar and rich feta cheese balance each other perfectly, while the freshness of the herbs and vegetables adds depth and brightness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of under an hour, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or when you need a delicious appetizer in a hurry.
- Healthy & Flavorful: The eggplant is low in calories but high in nutrients, and the feta cheese provides a good source of protein. Paired with the fresh veggies and olive oil, this dish offers a satisfying and healthy option without compromising on taste.
- Vegan & Vegetarian-Friendly: While the recipe includes feta cheese, it can easily be swapped for a plant-based feta alternative for a fully vegan dish.
Enjoy this Balsamic Glazed Eggplant Feta Rollatini Recipe and share it with your friends and family as an appetizer or light meal. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors or just looking for a creative way to cook eggplant, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
This dish is part of a collection of Italian Recipes that you’ll find on Love With Recipes, where we bring you easy-to-make, flavor-packed dishes inspired by the Mediterranean and beyond.
