Zucchini Rollatini

This warm and cheesy Zucchini Rollatini is a delightful low-carb meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings. The layers of tender zucchini wrapped around a creamy filling of ricotta and ground meat make this dish not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s baked in a homemade marinara sauce, making every bite full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dish that impresses.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Italian sausage lends a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Low-Carb Delight: This recipe is perfect for those following a low-carb diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the rollatini ahead of time and bake just before serving.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Casserole dish (9”x 14”)
• Mandolin or sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Helps evenly cook your zucchini slices to achieve the perfect texture.
• Mandolin or sharp knife: Allows you to slice zucchini into thin strips efficiently, ensuring they are pliable for rolling.
• Casserole dish: Ideal for baking your Zucchini Rollatini while allowing space for the marinara sauce.

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

How to Make Zucchini Rollatini

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini Slices

Slice zucchini using a mandolin or sharp knife into thin strips. These should be pliable enough to roll easily.
– Arrange them on paper towels and sprinkle salt over the tops.
– Layer more paper towels on top to absorb moisture.
– Allow them to sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Step 3: Bake the Zucchini

Pat the zucchini slices dry after the resting period.
– Place them on a baking sheet lined with a wire rack.
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes while preparing the filling.

Step 4: Cook the Filling

In a small frying pan, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until cooked through.
– Set aside to cool slightly before adding it to a mixing bowl.
– Add ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chopped basil, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Rollatini

Once the zucchini slices have cooled enough to handle:
– Pat them dry again before adding about one tablespoon of filling in each slice.
– Spread it evenly while leaving some space around the edges.
– Spray your casserole dish with nonstick spray and spread half of the marinara sauce at the bottom.

Step 6: Roll Up and Bake

Carefully roll each zucchini slice up and place seam side down in your prepared casserole dish.
– Repeat with remaining zucchini slices until all are used.
– Pour additional marinara sauce over each rollup and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Final Baking

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until cheese is golden brown. Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Rollatini!

How to Serve Zucchini Rollatini

Zucchini Rollatini is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the Rollatini.

Add Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that complements the cheesy filling.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled bell peppers, asparagus, or eggplant can add color and extra nutrients to your meal.

Top with Extra Marinara Sauce

• Drizzle additional Keto Marinara Sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor and moisture.

Accompany with a Cheese Platter

• A selection of cheeses like feta or goat cheese can provide a lovely contrast to the main dish.

How to Perfect Zucchini Rollatini

To ensure your Zucchini Rollatini turns out just right, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Choose the right zucchini: Select small to medium zucchinis for better texture and easier rolling.
• Slice thinly: Use a mandolin or sharp knife to create even, thin slices for pliability.
• Salt the zucchini: Letting them sit with salt draws out moisture and improves the overall consistency.
• Brown the meat well: Ensure the Italian sausage is browned fully for deeper flavor in your filling.
• Don’t overload on filling: Use just enough filling in each roll to keep them neatly wrapped without bursting.
• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your Rollatini while baking; they should be golden and bubbly for perfect results.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Rollatini

Pairing side dishes with Zucchini Rollatini can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing provides a crunchy contrast.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and pairs well with the flavors of the Rollatini.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delightful side.
4. Quinoa Pilaf – A fluffy quinoa pilaf offers a nutty flavor and additional protein alongside your dish.
5. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in this salad complement the Italian flavors of the Rollatini.
6. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – This creamy alternative to mashed potatoes adds comfort without excess carbs.
7. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar boosts freshness and lightness on the plate.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or grains make for a colorful and hearty accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Zucchini Rollatini, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can impact the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Not salting the zucchini: Failing to salt the zucchini before baking can lead to watery rollatini. Always sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit to draw out moisture.

• Overfilling each roll: Adding too much filling can cause the zucchini to tear or overflow. Use just enough filling to cover the center of each slice without going over the edges.

• Skipping the pre-bake step: Neglecting to bake the zucchini slices briefly can result in soggy rollatini. Pre-baking helps remove excess moisture and keeps your finished dish firm.

• Using low-quality marinara sauce: A bland or low-quality sauce can dull the flavor of your rollatini. Opt for a rich, flavorful keto marinara for the best results.

• Not allowing cooling time: Rushing into assembling while ingredients are still hot can lead to burns or messes. Allow all components to cool slightly before handling.

• Underestimating baking time: Every oven is different; not monitoring the rollatini closely may lead to undercooked cheese. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure cooled Zucchini Rollatini is completely covered with marinara sauce before sealing.

Freezing Zucchini Rollatini

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for a couple of hours before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Zucchini Rollatini

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rollatini in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover until heated through, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zucchini Rollatini?

Zucchini Rollatini is a delicious Italian-inspired dish where thin slices of zucchini are filled with savory cheese and meat mixtures, rolled up, and baked in marinara sauce.

Can I make Zucchini Rollatini ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and assemble Zucchini Rollatini ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.

How do I customize my Zucchini Rollatini?

You can customize your Zucchini Rollatini by adding different vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, using various cheeses, or swapping out meats based on your preferences.

Is Zucchini Rollatini suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Zucchini Rollatini makes an excellent meal prep option as it stores well and reheats beautifully without losing flavor or texture.

What should I serve with Zucchini Rollatini?

Pair your Zucchini Rollatini with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Final Thoughts

Zucchini Rollatini is not only warm and cheesy but also offers versatility in flavors and ingredients. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a delicious low-carb meal. Feel free to experiment with different fillings or sauces to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Zucchini Rollatini

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal with our delightful Zucchini Rollatini. This low-carb dish features tender zucchini slices wrapped around a creamy filling made from ricotta cheese, ground turkey, and fresh herbs, all baked in a rich homemade marinara sauce. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings, this dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Each bite is a delightful combination of cheesy goodness and savory meat, making it a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for added convenience!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 small/medium zucchini
• 1 cup Keto Marinara Sauce
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• ½ pound ground turkey
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 whole egg
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice zucchini into thin strips using a mandolin or knife; salt and let sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture.
3. Pat dry and bake on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.
4. In a frying pan, brown the ground turkey; combine with ricotta, parmesan, egg, garlic powder, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
5. Assemble by placing filling on each zucchini slice and rolling them up.
6. Arrange rolls seam-side down in a casserole dish layered with marinara sauce; top with more sauce and mozzarella.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 rollatini (approx. 120g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 90mg