Zucchini Roll-Ups Stuffed with Spinach & Ricotta in Creamy Tomato Sauce is a delicious and healthy dish perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering. These rolled-up zucchini strips are filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and ricotta cheese, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. The result is a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh vegetables while indulging in a creamy, comforting sauce. It’s perfect for vegetarians, and it’s a great option if you want to serve something light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a fun way to use zucchini in a different form, and it’s easy to prepare, making it a win for weeknight meals or special occasions.
How to Make Zucchini Roll-Ups Stuffed with Spinach & Ricotta
Making Zucchini Roll-Ups Stuffed with Spinach & Ricotta involves a few simple steps that anyone can follow. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish:
Ingredients:
- 2 large zucchinis
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for brushing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes. Then, pat them dry.
- In a bowl, mix the spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Take a zucchini strip, place some filling on one end, and roll it up. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- For the sauce, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for a minute more.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Spread some of the sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the zucchini rolls on top of the sauce, then cover them with the remaining sauce. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
How to Serve Zucchini Roll-Ups Stuffed with Spinach & Ricotta
Serve these delicious Zucchini Roll-Ups hot from the oven, garnished with fresh basil leaves. They pair well with a side salad or some crusty bread. If you want to add a little extra flavor, sprinkle more grated Parmesan on top.
How to Store Zucchini Roll-Ups Stuffed with Spinach & Ricotta
Store any leftover Zucchini Roll-Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Zucchini Roll-Ups Stuffed with Spinach & Ricotta
- Ensure you slice the zucchini thinly to make them easy to roll.
- Pat the zucchini dry after salting to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can skip the heavy cream or use a low-fat alternative. You can also add cooked ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, to the filling for a heartier dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash works well too! The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini rolls and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble them when you’re ready to bake.
3. What can I serve with Zucchini Roll-Ups?
These roll-ups go well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even over pasta for a complete meal.
