Eggplant Rollatini

Eggplant Rollatini is a family favorite that combines tender breaded eggplant, creamy ricotta filling, and rich Grandpa Pete’s Gourmet Tomato Sauce. This hearty, Italian-inspired dish is perfect for gatherings or a comforting meal at home, bringing authentic flavors to your table every time!

Eggplant Rollatini serves 4 to 6 people

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized eggplants or 1 large eggplant
• 1 jar (26 oz) Grandpa Pete’s Marinara or Vodka Sauce
• 3 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 10 tablespoons Romano and/or Parmesan grated cheese
• 1 ¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve ¼ cup for topping)
• 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt & pepper, mixed
• 5 tablespoons water
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon parsley flakes or fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplant:
   • Peel the eggplant and thinly slice it lengthwise to about ½ inch thickness.
   • Create an egg wash by whisking 1 egg with 5 tablespoons of water.
   • Dip each eggplant slice into the egg wash, then coat with seasoned breadcrumbs.
2. Cook the Eggplant:
   Option 1: Pan fry the breaded eggplant slices in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown. Add more oil as needed.
   Option 2: Spread half the olive oil on a baking pan, place the breaded eggplant slices on the pan, drizzle the remaining oil over them, and bake at 400°F, turning once, until fork tender.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 beaten egg, grated Romano or Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
4. Assemble the Rollatini:
   • Lay the cooked eggplant slices flat. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the slices (do not overstuff). Roll each slice gently into a cylinder.
   • Spread a thin layer of Grandpa Pete’s Marinara or Vodka Sauce on the bottom of a 9.5” x 9.5” baking dish.
   • Place the rolled eggplant slices seam-side down in the dish. Top with the remaining sauce, fresh basil, and reserved ¼ cup shredded mozzarella.
5. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F.
   • Bake the rollatini for about 15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestion:
Serve with a side of Grandpa Pete’s Homemade Style Pasta or gluten-free penne rigate for a complete Italian feast. Perfect for Sunday dinners or sharing with family and friends!

Enjoy the authentic flavors of Italian cooking with this updated recipe featuring Grandpa Pete’s Gourmet Products!