Zucchini Rollatini

This warm and cheesy Zucchini Rollatini is a rich, satisfying dish that combines the flavors of Italian cuisine with a healthy twist. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, this recipe showcases zucchini in a fun and enticing way. With layers of meat, cheese, and homemade marinara sauce, Zucchini Rollatini offers comfort food vibes while remaining low in carbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low Carb Delight: This dish is perfect for those following a keto diet or simply looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Italian sausage creates a creamy filling that bursts with flavor in every bite.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Impressive Presentation: Rollatini not only tastes great but also looks stunning on the plate, making it perfect for entertaining.
• Versatile Dish: Feel free to customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or spices for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Zucchini Rollatini, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandolin or sharp knife
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• 9”x 14” casserole baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandolin or sharp knife: Ensures perfectly thin zucchini slices that are pliable for rolling.
• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for cooking the zucchini to draw out moisture effectively.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the flavorful filling ingredients together.

Ingredients

This warm and cheesy Zucchini Rollatini is a delicious low carb meal that only takes a few steps to make. Loaded with meat and cheese and baked in a homemade marinara sauce!

For the Zucchini Rollatini

• 3 small/medium zucchini (sliced into 28 very thin slices)
• 1 cup Keto Marinara Sauce
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage (ground)
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 whole egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Zucchini Rollatini

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini Slices

1. Slice zucchini using a mandolin or sharp knife into thin strips.
2. Line them up on paper towels and sprinkle salt over the tops.
3. Add more paper towels on top to absorb moisture.
4. Allow them to sit for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Bake the Zucchini

1. Pat the zucchini slices dry after 20 minutes.
2. Place them on a baking sheet lined with a wire rack.
3. Bake for 10 minutes while preparing the filling.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage Filling

1. In a small frying pan, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until cooked through.
2. Set aside to cool before adding to the filling mixture.

Step 5: Mix the Filling Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Cooked sausage,
2. Ricotta cheese,
3. Parmesan cheese,
4. Garlic powder,
5. Chopped basil,
6. Parsley,
7. Egg,
8. Salt,
9. Pepper.

Stir thoroughly until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Rollatini

1. Once cooled, pat dry each zucchini slice.
2. Add some filling to each slice’s center and spread evenly while leaving borders along edges.
3. Spray your casserole dish with nonstick spray and add half of the marinara sauce as base.

Step 7: Arrange in Casserole Dish

Roll up each filled zucchini slice tightly and place seam side down in the casserole dish.
Repeat with remaining slices.

Step 8: Add Sauce and Cheese Topping

Pour any remaining marinara sauce over each rollup.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until cheese is golden brown; mine took exactly 23 minutes.

Enjoy your deliciously warm Zucchini Rollatini!

How to Serve Zucchini Rollatini

Zucchini Rollatini is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions that enhance the experience of this delicious dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Arugula Salad – Toss fresh arugula with cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and lemon juice for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the cheesy rollatini.

Add Garlic Bread

• Homemade Garlic Bread – Toasted baguette smeared with garlic butter pairs perfectly with the marinara sauce of the rollatini.
• Cheesy Breadsticks – Soft and cheesy breadsticks make for a great dipping option for the extra marinara.

Serve with Additional Marinara Sauce

• Marinara Dipping Sauce – Offer extra marinara on the side for those who love saucy dishes; it adds moisture and flavor to each bite.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil on top just before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Parmesan Shavings – Add fresh parmesan shavings for an elegant finish and extra flavor.

How to Perfect Zucchini Rollatini

To ensure your Zucchini Rollatini turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Boldly slice zucchini thin – Thin slices make it easier to roll and prevent them from being too watery.
• Boldly salt zucchini – Salting helps draw out moisture, preventing your dish from becoming soggy.
• Boldly brown sausage well – Browning enhances flavor, so cook until it’s nicely caramelized before mixing with cheese.
• Boldly layer sauce generously – Don’t skimp on the marinara sauce; it keeps the rollatini moist while baking.
• Boldly bake until bubbly – Ensure you bake until cheese is golden and bubbly for that perfect presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Rollatini

To complement your Zucchini Rollatini, consider pairing it with these tasty side dishes. They add variety and enhance your meal’s overall appeal.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil and garlic brings a colorful crunch to your plate.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light and refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with lemon zest offers a crisp side that pairs well with rich flavors.
4. Risotto – Creamy risotto made with parmesan can add a luxurious touch to your meal without overpowering the rollatini.
5. Grilled Eggplant Slices – Grilled eggplant adds depth and flavor while keeping the meal low-carb and satisfying.
6. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs can serve as a hearty but healthy addition to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Zucchini Rollatini, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Zucchini: If you cook the zucchini slices too long, they may become mushy and hard to roll. Bake them just until they soften slightly, but remain pliable.

• Skipping the Salting Step: Not salting the zucchini can lead to watery rollatini. Always remember to sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit to draw out excess moisture.

• Not Patting Dry: Failing to pat the zucchini dry after baking can result in a soggy dish. Make sure to remove excess moisture before adding the filling.

• Using Too Much Filling: Overstuffing your zucchini rolls can make them difficult to close. Use just enough filling to create a neat roll without spilling out.

• Neglecting Marinara Sauce: Skipping marinara sauce or using too little can leave your dish dry. Layer enough sauce in between and on top of the rolls for flavor and moisture.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Zucchini Rollatini in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the dish is cooled completely before sealing it.

Freezing Zucchini Rollatini

• Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label your containers with the date for reference.

Reheating Zucchini Rollatini

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Zucchini Rollatini ahead of time?

You can prepare Zucchini Rollatini up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready!

What type of cheese works best for Zucchini Rollatini?

Ricotta cheese is traditional, but you can also experiment with cottage cheese or even vegan options for different flavors.

How do I prevent watery sauce in my Zucchini Rollatini?

Salting and drying your zucchini is key! This helps avoid excess moisture that can dilute your marinara sauce.

Can I customize the filling of my Zucchini Rollatini?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different meats, vegetables, or spices based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Is this Zucchini Rollatini suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it a great option for meal prepping healthy lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

This warm and cheesy Zucchini Rollatini is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fillings or sauces based on what you have on hand. It’s perfect as a low-carb meal that delights everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful Italian-inspired dish that’s sure to impress!