Surprise Eggplant Roulade with Hidden Ricotta

Name: Surprise Eggplant Roulade with Hidden Ricotta
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium eggplant; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil; 2 garlic cloves; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

Thinly sliced eggplant rolls filled with herbed ricotta, creating an elegant dish where the filling is revealed only when cut.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Vegetarian

Prep: 30 minutes. Cook: 12 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

2 medium eggplant
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil
2 garlic cloves
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Slice 2 medium eggplants lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle both sides with 1/2 tsp sea salt and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth. This creates a cohesive filling without visible herbs.
Step 3: Lay eggplant slices flat, place 2 tbsp of the ricotta mixture on one end, and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks if needed. Repeat for all slices.
Step 4: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place rolled eggplant seam-side down and cook for 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to reveal the hidden filling.