Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini Recipe

Zucchini Rollatini is a delicious, lighter variation of the classic Italian dish eggplant rollatini. Traditionally, rollatini consists of eggplant slices rolled around a cheese and herb filling, then baked in marinara sauce. In this recipe, zucchini—often considered a healthier alternative to eggplant due to its lower carb content and mild flavor—takes center stage.

The Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini combines zucchini with a decadent, melty filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, making it a flavorful yet low-carb alternative to many traditional pasta-based dishes. This version is baked in a rich marinara sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and health-conscious.

Why Choose Zucchini for Rollatini?

While eggplant is the traditional choice for rollatini, zucchini offers numerous advantages, making it an excellent substitution. Let’s explore why zucchini is an ideal base for this dish.

1. Lower Carb and Calorie Count

Zucchini is naturally low in carbohydrates and calories compared to other vegetables, especially eggplant. A single medium zucchini contains only about 20-25 calories and 4-5 grams of carbs, making it perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. This makes zucchini rollatini a healthier, guilt-free option compared to pasta-based dishes.

2. Mild Flavor That Absorbs Sauce and Seasonings

Zucchini has a relatively neutral flavor, which means it absorbs the flavors of the cheese and marinara sauce it’s paired with. This allows the cheeses, seasonings, and sauce to shine through, making zucchini a versatile vegetable that works well in many dishes.

3. Rich in Nutrients

Zucchini is a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. It’s also a good source of fiber, helping with digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making your Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini, from prepping the zucchini to baking the rolls to perfection.

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Before assembling the rollatini, you need to prep the zucchini:

1. Slice the Zucchini: Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to slice the zucchini into thin strips, about 1/8-inch thick. You’ll need approximately 8-10 slices per zucchini, depending on the size. Be careful not to cut the slices too thick; they should be pliable enough to roll without breaking.
2. Sauté the Zucchini: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, sauté the zucchini strips for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re slightly softened but still firm enough to hold their shape. Remove from the pan and set aside to cool on a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients for the cheese filling:
   • 1 cup ricotta cheese
   • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
   • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • 1 large egg
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
   • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
   • Salt and pepper to taste
2. Stir the ingredients together until well combined. The filling should be thick and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Zucchini Rollatini

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, pour about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce to coat the bottom of the dish. This will prevent the zucchini from sticking and add flavor.
3. Lay one zucchini slice flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto the center of the zucchini slice. Gently roll the zucchini slice around the cheese mixture, securing the filling inside.
4. Place the rolled zucchini seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Continue assembling the remaining rolls, packing them tightly together in the dish.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese Topping

1. Once all the zucchini rolls are in the baking dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls. Ensure that each rollatini is covered with sauce to keep the zucchini moist during baking.
2. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top of the zucchini rolls.

Step 5: Bake the Zucchini Rollatini

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This allows the rolls to heat through and the cheese to melt without over-browning.
2. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
3. Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time will help the cheese set and make the rollatini easier to serve.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the zucchini rollatini with freshly chopped basil or parsley. A light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also add an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini

While the zucchini rollatini is satisfying on its own, here are some excellent side dish options to serve alongside it:

1. Garlic Bread

A classic pairing with any Italian dish, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce. Opt for a homemade or store-bought version, and serve warm.

2. Side Salad

A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or a Caprese salad (tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle) pairs wonderfully with zucchini rollatini.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, or cauliflower can add additional flavor and texture to your meal, enhancing its nutritional value and creating a more balanced plate.

4. Cauliflower Rice or Zoodles

For a low-carb meal, serve your rollatini with cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles). These options are light, healthy, and pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the rollatini.

Health Benefits of Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini

This recipe is not only tasty but offers a variety of health benefits due to its simple, wholesome ingredients.

1. Packed with Protein

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese provides a good amount of protein to support muscle growth and repair, while also helping to keep you fuller longer.

2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Zucchini is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune health, and potassium, which helps manage blood pressure. Additionally, the cheeses provide essential nutrients such as calcium for bone health.

3. Low in Carbs and Calories

If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto meal, zucchini rollatini is a fantastic option. The dish is light on carbohydrates but still filling due to the fiber in zucchini and the richness of the cheeses.

Conclusion

The Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini is a dish that perfectly balances comfort, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner for your family, a meatless meal option, or a show-stopping dish for a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

With its creamy cheese filling, tender zucchini, and rich marinara sauce, zucchini rollatini is the ultimate satisfying meal. Plus, it’s highly adaptable to suit various dietary needs and preferences, from gluten-free to low-carb to vegetarian.

Variations on Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini

One of the things that makes the Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini so wonderful is how adaptable it is. While the classic version with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan is fantastic, there are many ways to switch things up to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:

1. Spinach and Ricotta Zucchini Rollatini

For added flavor and nutrients, you can incorporate spinach into the filling. The creamy ricotta cheese pairs beautifully with sautéed spinach, creating a filling that’s rich in iron, calcium, and vitamin K.

• How to do it: Sauté about 2 cups of fresh spinach with a clove of garlic in olive oil until wilted. Let it cool slightly, then mix it into the ricotta cheese before assembling the rolls. You can also use frozen spinach (make sure to drain and squeeze out excess moisture).

2. Ground Turkey or Chicken Zucchini Rollatini

For those looking to add more protein to the dish, ground turkey or chicken can be added to the cheese filling. This option would turn the rollatini into a heartier meal that still keeps the zucchini as the star.

• How to do it: Brown about 1/2 pound of ground turkey or chicken in a skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir the cooked meat into the cheese mixture before rolling it up in the zucchini slices.

3. Vegan Zucchini Rollatini

If you’re following a plant-based or vegan diet, you can create a delicious dairy-free version of zucchini rollatini.

• How to do it: Replace the ricotta with tofu (blended to a smooth consistency), or you can use a vegan ricotta. Replace the mozzarella with vegan mozzarella cheese, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling for extra texture.

4. Pesto Zucchini Rollatini

For a fresh, herby flavor, try swapping the marinara sauce for pesto. Pesto is rich in basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts, and it pairs beautifully with zucchini and cheese.

• How to do it: Spread 1/2 cup of pesto over the zucchini rolls instead of marinara. You can also add a layer of pesto to the cheese mixture for an added punch of flavor.

5. Mediterranean Zucchini Rollatini

For a Mediterranean twist, you can add ingredients like feta cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano to the filling. This variation will give you a tangy, briny flavor profile that pairs well with the creamy cheese.

• How to do it: Add about 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives, and 2 tablespoons of chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese filling. A little extra oregano will enhance the Mediterranean vibe.

6. Stuffed with Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a great addition to the rollatini for extra umami flavor and texture. You can use button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms.

• How to do it: Sauté chopped mushrooms in olive oil until they release their moisture and become golden. Allow them to cool, then add them to the cheese mixture. This adds depth and richness to the dish.

Meal Prep and Customization

Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini is a great dish for meal prepping. It can be made in bulk, stored in the fridge, and reheated throughout the week, making it an excellent choice for busy individuals or families.

Meal Prep Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the zucchini rollatini in advance and store it uncooked in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. If you’re making a large batch, consider freezing a portion for later use.
• Batch Cooking: If you plan to make multiple servings, consider doubling or tripling the recipe. This way, you’ll have enough for the week and can store the extras in individual portions for easy lunches or dinners.
• Individual Portion Sizes: To make meal prep even easier, portion out the zucchini rollatini into individual servings once baked. This way, you can quickly grab a portion for lunch or dinner without having to worry about reheating a whole casserole.

Creative Ways to Serve Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini

While the zucchini rollatini is flavorful on its own, it can be served with a variety of sides and garnishes to elevate the meal. Here are some creative ideas for serving:

1. Zucchini Rollatini with a Side Salad

Pair the rollatini with a fresh salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. This will balance the richness of the cheese and create a light, refreshing contrast.

2. Garlic Bread or Crostini

If you love carbs, serve your rollatini with some garlic bread or crostini. You can use a store-bought version or make your own by toasting slices of baguette with garlic butter, olive oil, and a sprinkle of parsley.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Complement the zucchini rollatini with roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or bell peppers. These crispy, caramelized veggies will add a depth of flavor and extra nutrients to the meal.

4. Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice

If you want a more filling meal, serve the zucchini rollatini over a bed of quinoa or cauliflower rice. These provide a great grain or grain alternative that’s perfect for soaking up the marinara sauce.

5. Balsamic Drizzle or Pesto Topping

For added flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction or a spoonful of pesto on top of the baked rollatini before serving. This will bring a fresh, acidic note to balance the richness of the cheese.

A Dish for Every Occasion

The Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for anyone seeking a healthy, delicious, and versatile meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or looking for a satisfying meatless option, this recipe delivers on flavor and nutrition.

With its customizable filling, easy preparation, and room for creative variations, zucchini rollatini can be made to suit almost any taste or dietary preference. It’s a dish that appeals to all palates—vegetarians, meat lovers, and even those on low-carb diets will find something to enjoy.

From its nutritional benefits to its easy storage and serving options, Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini is a go-to recipe that will bring comfort, flavor, and health benefits to your table.

Yield: 4

Three Cheese Zucchini Rollatini Recipe

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Zucchini Rollatini is a delicious, lighter variation of the classic Italian dish eggplant rollatini. Traditionally, rollatini consists of eggplant slices rolled around a cheese and herb filling, then baked in marinara sauce. In this recipe, zucchini—often considered a healthier alternative to eggplant due to its lower carb content and mild flavor—takes center stage.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (preferably part-skim)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably part-skim)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil for brushing
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Cut off both ends of the zucchinis and slice them lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/8-inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices.
   Lay the zucchini strips on a paper towel or clean kitchen towel and sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit for about 5-10 minutes. Afterward, blot the zucchini slices dry with a towel.
   
2. Make the Cheese Filling:
   In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
   
3. Assemble the Rollatini:
   Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish (about 9x13 inches).
   Take one zucchini strip and place a spoonful of the cheese mixture along one edge. Roll the zucchini up tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
   Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices and cheese filling, arranging the rollatini in a single layer in the baking dish.
   
4. Top with Sauce and Cheese:
   Once all the zucchini rollatini are assembled, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the rolls.
   Sprinkle the top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, golden finish.
   
5. Bake:
   Lightly brush the tops of the rollatini with a small amount of olive oil for a bit of crispiness.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
   Serve hot as a main dish or as a side to grilled chicken, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Notes

Zucchini Prep: Zucchini has a high water content, which can make it soggy when cooked. The salting and blotting step helps to remove excess moisture and keeps the zucchini from becoming watery when baked. If you prefer to skip this step, you can also pre-roast the zucchini slices on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes before assembling the rollatini to reduce moisture.

Cheese Variations: The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives this dish a rich and creamy texture. You can experiment with other cheeses such as goat cheese or fontina for a unique flavor profile. If you want to make it even lighter, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella, or reduce the amount of cheese slightly.

Adding Protein: If you want to add some protein to the dish, you can mix cooked ground turkey or chicken into the ricotta mixture. Alternatively, a few slices of prosciutto could be placed inside the rollatini before rolling them up for a savory addition.

Make It Ahead: These rollatini can be made ahead of time. Assemble the zucchini rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes of baking time if you’re cooking them straight from the fridge.

Sauce Options: While marinara sauce is the classic choice, you can also use a homemade tomato sauce, pesto, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce if you're looking for a richer option. A drizzle of balsamic glaze on top just before serving could also elevate the dish.

Serving Suggestions: This dish works well as a light main course on its own or as a side to protein-rich meals like grilled chicken, turkey meatballs, or a steak. You can pair it with a simple salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even a side of quinoa for extra heartiness.

Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn't require any pasta, but be sure to check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten.