Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups

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I can’t tell you how many times these Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups have stolen the show at my dinner table. Every time I bring them out, I watch people’s eyes light up as they take their first bite. Tender eggplant slices, creamy filling, and a touch of herbs make them unforgettable. I love making these because they feel like a little culinary secret — simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.

The first time I made them was for a family gathering. I was nervous, unsure if everyone would embrace eggplant. But as the tray emptied within minutes, my confidence soared. Since then, they’ve become a staple, and even the pickiest eaters have asked me for the recipe. It’s one of those dishes that bridges the gap between rustic charm and elegant entertaining.

Whenever I plan a spread of starters, these are my go-to. They’re light enough not to overshadow the main course yet flavorful enough to leave an impression. If you’re looking to expand your appetizer repertoire, or simply want to wow your guests, you’ll fall in love with these as quickly as I did. And if you’re in the mood for more easy yet impressive starters, check out my Authentic 7 Layer Mexican Dip or my irresistible Candied Jalapeños for more ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups

These Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups are the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and herbaceous. They’re easy to prepare yet look gorgeous on a platter. The tender, slightly smoky eggplant pairs beautifully with the rich filling, and each bite is balanced and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a party or just making a snack for yourself, you’ll appreciate how versatile and crowd-pleasing these are. They’re also naturally gluten-free and can be made ahead of time, which makes them a host’s dream come true.

Ingredients

Eggplant is the star of this recipe, bringing a tender and slightly smoky flavor when roasted. I use medium-sized eggplants because they slice into perfect strips that roll easily. The filling usually calls for creamy ricotta cheese for richness, complemented by a bit of parmesan to add a salty, nutty depth. Fresh basil leaves are a must — they lend brightness and a hint of peppery flavor. A drizzle of olive oil enhances the roasting process and keeps the eggplant silky and flavorful. Lastly, a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper ties everything together.

How to Make Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips about ¼ inch thick. Lay them out on a baking sheet and sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out moisture. After about 15 minutes, blot them dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Roast the Eggplant

Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, chopped fresh basil, and a little salt and pepper to taste. Stir until creamy and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll-ups

Take each roasted eggplant slice, spread a spoonful of filling at one end, and gently roll it up. Place the rolls seam side down on a serving platter.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Drizzle a little more olive oil over the rolls and garnish with extra basil or a sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily adapt these Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based ricotta or hummus as the filling. If you prefer a more robust flavor, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the filling. You can also substitute fresh basil with parsley or even a sprinkle of oregano for a different herbal note. For a richer twist, a few shreds of mozzarella mixed in with the ricotta create a gooier center.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I love serving these roll-ups as part of an appetizer spread with crusty bread, marinated olives, and perhaps a glass of chilled white wine. They also make a wonderful side dish for grilled meats or fish. If you want to keep it vegetarian, pair them with a crisp green salad or something hearty like my Giant Zucchini Parmesan for a satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, just until warmed through. You can also enjoy them cold or at room temperature — they’re just as delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the eggplant and prepare the filling a day in advance. Assemble the roll-ups shortly before serving for best texture.

Are Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups gluten-free?

Absolutely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses no bread or flour.

How do I prevent my Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups from becoming soggy?

Make sure to salt and blot the eggplant slices before roasting to remove excess moisture. This keeps them tender but not watery.

Can I freeze Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups?

I don’t recommend freezing them, as the texture of roasted eggplant can become mushy when thawed. They’re best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed these Eggplant Appetizers Roll-ups, you’ll also love my Authentic 7 Layer Mexican Dip. It’s another crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. For a sweet counterpoint, try my Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake — it’s the perfect way to round out your menu.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this recipe has caught your eye, don’t forget to save it for later! Pin it to your favorite appetizer or party board on Pinterest so you can easily find it when you need an impressive dish in a pinch. Share it with your friends and family too — I know they’ll be asking you for the recipe once they taste it. Spread the love on social media and tag me so I can see your beautiful creations!

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