Italian Style Rolled Eggplant
Italian Style Rolled Eggplant features tender eggplant slices filled with savory ground beef, seasoned bread crumbs, and herbs, making it a flavorful and satisfying dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the eggplant lengthwise, leaving the skin on.
- Dip each eggplant slice in seasoned flour, then in beaten egg.
- Fry the coated eggplant slices on both sides until golden.
- Lay the fried eggplant slices on brown paper or towels to absorb excess oil.
- Prepare the filling with ground beef, egg, Italian flavored bread crumbs, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the filling evenly over the eggplant slices, then roll them up to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can grill the eggplant slices instead of frying them. If you're out of Italian flavored bread crumbs, you can use plain bread crumbs mixed with Italian seasoning. To enhance the flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the filling. Also, ensure to salt the eggplant before cooking to draw out moisture and bitterness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rolled eggplant with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, which complements the flavors beautifully. A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs well for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Betty'S Lasagna, creating a delightful Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolled eggplant in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the texture without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Style Rolled Eggplant contains roughly 140 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 602mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to assemble the rolls right before cooking to maintain the best texture of the eggplant. Allow the filling to come to room temperature before using to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute for ground beef. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider using a mixture of ricotta cheese and spinach or a plant-based meat alternative to keep the dish flavorful.
Can I freeze the rolled eggplant?
Yes, you can freeze the rolled eggplant before or after cooking. Ensure they are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).