Eggplant Roll-Ups (Involtini di Melanzane)
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 12 pieces
These delicious Eggplant Roll-Ups are a delightful appetizer featuring tender eggplant slices, savory cooked ham, melted Caciocavallo cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. This dish, traditionally called “Involtini di Melanzane,” is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a dinner party, or a casual meal, these roll-ups will surely become a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplant (Melanzane) | 200g |
| Cooked Ham (Prosciutto Cotto) | 100g |
| Caciocavallo Cheese | 100g |
| Tomato Sauce (Passata di Pomodoro) | 200g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 10g |
| Fine Salt (Sale Fino) | To taste |
| Black Pepper (Pepe Nero) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Calcium | 100mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggplants
Start by thoroughly washing and drying the eggplants. Remove the stem (picciolo) from each eggplant and slice them lengthwise using a mandoline to create thin, even slices approximately 2mm thick. You should end up with about 12 slices. If you prefer, gently blot the eggplant slices with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step helps eliminate the bitterness often found in eggplants and prevents the slices from being too watery during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Tomato Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce (passata di pomodoro) and let it simmer gently. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, so that the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Now that your eggplant slices are ready and the tomato sauce is simmering, it’s time to assemble the roll-ups. Take one slice of eggplant and slightly warm it on the cutting board. Place a slice of cooked ham (prosciutto cotto) on top of the eggplant slice, then gently roll it up, securing the ham inside. Repeat this process with the remaining eggplant slices and ham until you have 12 roll-ups.
Step 4: Bake the Roll-Ups
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the eggplant roll-ups in a baking dish, ensuring the seam of each roll-up is facing downward so that it stays closed during baking. Once all the roll-ups are in place, pour the simmered tomato sauce over them, ensuring they are evenly covered.
Step 5: Add the Caciocavallo Cheese
Next, slice the Caciocavallo cheese into small pieces or grate it, then distribute the cheese evenly over the top of the eggplant roll-ups. The cheese will melt beautifully as it bakes, adding a rich, creamy texture to each bite.
Step 6: Bake and Grill
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 7 minutes. After that, switch the oven setting to grill (broil) at 240°C (464°F) and cook for an additional 3 minutes. This step will give the top of the roll-ups a beautiful golden and slightly crispy finish.
Step 7: Serve
Once the eggplant roll-ups are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with a few fresh basil leaves to enhance the Mediterranean flavor and add a touch of color. These roll-ups are perfect as an appetizer or light meal when paired with a fresh salad.
Enjoy your Eggplant Roll-Ups as part of your next gathering or family dinner – their combination of tender eggplant, savory ham, melted cheese, and tangy tomato sauce is truly irresistible!
