Grilled Eggplant Rolls
A simple and flavorful dish that combines the rich, smoky taste of grilled eggplant with the freshness of tomatoes and the creamy goodness of mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a light lunch or as a vegan appetizer at your next gathering. These Grilled Eggplant Rolls are easy to prepare, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. Plus, they are suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggplant (aubergine) | 1 large, cut lengthwise into 7-8 thin slices |
| Mozzarella cheese | 4 oz. (or vegan mozzarella alternative) |
| Tomato | 1 large, sliced |
| Olive oil | A small drizzle for grilling |
| Salt | To taste |
Directions
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Prepare the Eggplant: Begin by cutting your eggplant lengthwise into 7-8 thin slices using a sharp knife. Season the slices with a pinch of salt and drizzle with olive oil to enhance flavor and texture.
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Grill the Eggplant: Heat a grilling pan over medium heat. Grill each slice of eggplant for about 3 minutes on each side, until they are tender and slightly charred with grill marks.
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Assemble the Rolls: On a clean dish or cutting board, place one slice of tomato on top of each grilled eggplant slice. Add a portion of mozzarella cheese (or your preferred cheese alternative) on top of the tomato.
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Roll and Secure: Carefully roll each eggplant slice from left to right, encasing the tomato and mozzarella inside. Secure the rolls with a toothpick to keep them in place.
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Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (180ยฐC). Place the eggplant rolls on a baking tray and bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Once out of the oven, serve your Grilled Eggplant Rolls warm as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 59 kcal |
| Fat | 3.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4.0 g |
| Protein | 3.0 g |
Allergen Information
- Dairy: Contains mozzarella cheese. For a vegan version, use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Gluten: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegan-Friendly: Use vegan mozzarella for a fully vegan meal.
- Vegetarian: Can be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish with dairy mozzarella.
- Low-Carb: A great choice for those following a low-carb diet.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Eggplant Rolls
- Eggplant Slices: For the best texture, make sure your eggplant slices are thin enough to be pliable for rolling.
- Grilling Time: Keep an eye on your eggplant as grilling times can vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the heat of your pan.
- Flavor Variations: You can experiment with adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the flavor of your rolls. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor for those avoiding dairy.
Conclusion
These Grilled Eggplant Rolls are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal, combining fresh vegetables and creamy mozzarella in a delightful package. Whether you’re following a vegan or vegetarian diet, or simply craving a light, flavorful dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Enjoy the goodness of grilled eggplant, fresh tomatoes, and melty cheese wrapped up in each bite!
