Chef Bihi Eggplant Involtini
Looking for a delightful and mouth-watering dish that combines rich flavors and healthy ingredients? This Eggplant Involtini recipe is not only easy to prepare but promises to impress your family and friends. Why not dive into this culinary adventure today?
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 medium eggplants
- 250 g (~8.8 oz) of mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 4 slices of ham
- Several cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fleur de sel (or sea salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Optional: A handful of arugula for serving
Instructions
- Slice the eggplants lengthwise into pieces about 1 cm thick.
- Place the slices in a dish, sprinkle with a bit of salt, and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Heat a grill pan and grill the eggplant slices for a few minutes on each side until softened.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Slice the mozzarella and ham into thin pieces.
- On each grilled eggplant slice, layer a piece of mozzarella, a slice of ham, half a cherry tomato, and a basil leaf.
- Season with a bit of salt and pepper.
- Roll up the eggplant slices and secure each with a toothpick.
- Arrange the rolls in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 12 minutes.
- Serve with tagliatelle and a light tomato sauce if desired.
Notes
This dish not only makes for a delicious main course but can also be served as a stunning appetizer. Feel free to experiment with different fillings or herbs according to your preference.
Recipe Tips
- Salting the eggplant helps to reduce bitterness and draw out moisture, making the eggplant richer in flavor.
- For a more savory taste, consider adding layers of spinach or ricotta cheese.
- Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Approx. 300 calories, 15g protein, 20g fat, 25g carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. - How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute the mozzarella with vegan cheese and omit the ham, or replace it with marinated tofu. - Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake when ready! - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients listed are gluten-free, making it suitable for a gluten-free diet. - What can I serve with Eggplant Involtini?
This dish pairs well with pasta, a light salad, or even crusty garlic bread.
