Zucchini Rolls With Tomato Sauce
Zucchini rolls filled with ham and topped with a rich tomato sauce, offering fresh flavors and a light, satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Add whole garlic cloves and cook until golden brown and soft, about 10 minutes.
- Remove garlic cloves from the skillet.
- Mash the cooked garlic and set aside.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and sugar to the skillet.
- Partially cover and cook until the sauce becomes chunky, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the mashed garlic.
- Use the zucchini to make thin slices, then roll with ham inside.
- Serve the zucchini rolls topped with the tomato sauce and fresh basil.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier rolling, slice the zucchini lengthwise using a mandoline for uniform thickness. If you're short on time, substitute the plum tomatoes with canned crushed tomatoes. To add a bit more flavor, consider mixing in some Italian herbs like oregano or thyme. For a vegetarian option, omit the ham and use ricotta cheese instead. These zucchini rolls are a great way to utilize summer produce, similar to Summer Garden Zucchini Boats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the zucchini rolls hot, garnished with fresh basil for a burst of flavor. These can be accompanied by a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. They also pair beautifully with Greek Hamburgs for a well-rounded meal. For a complete Mediterranean experience, consider a side of Spinach-Tortellini Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover zucchini rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Rolls With Tomato Sauce contains roughly 874 calories, with 26g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (206% of the Daily Value), iron (125% of the Daily Value), and calcium (78% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 705mg per serving (31% 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 prepare the tomato sauce in advance?
Yes, the tomato sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it on the stove or microwave before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen, making it even more delicious when served with the zucchini rolls.
What type of zucchini is best for this recipe?
Medium-sized zucchini works best as they are tender and easier to roll. Avoid oversized zucchini, as they can be tough and watery. If you're looking for variety, consider using yellow zucchini for a colorful twist, which also adds a slightly different flavor profile to your dish.
Can I freeze the zucchini rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the zucchini rolls. To do this, assemble them without the sauce and layer them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat with the sauce before serving.
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).