Zucchini Rollatini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Alternative: Enjoy the classic flavors of Italian cuisine without the carbs, making it perfect for those following keto or low-carb diets.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of Italian sausage, ricotta, and marinara sauce creates a rich and satisfying taste experience.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that’s both healthy and delicious, making it a hit with both adults and kids.
• Great Use of Zucchini: An excellent way to utilize abundant summer zucchini in a creative and tasty manner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 small to medium zucchini
• 1 cup marinara sauce (preferably keto-friendly)
• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• ½ pound ground Italian sausage
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips.
   • Lay the slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and cover with additional paper towels. Let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

2. Cook the Sausage:

   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked sausage, egg, garlic powder, chopped basil, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Rollatini:

   • Pat the zucchini slices dry.
   • Place a spoonful of the ricotta and sausage mixture at one end of each zucchini slice, then roll up tightly.

5. Bake the Rollatini:

   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
   • Arrange the zucchini rolls seam-side down in the dish.
   • Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Serve:

   • Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the Italian sausage and add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for a meatless version.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the filling for an added heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try using goat cheese or feta in place of ricotta for a tangy twist.
• Alternative Sauces: Use a creamy Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a richer flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the rollatini to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rollatini in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too watery?

Salting the zucchini slices and letting them sit helps draw out excess moisture. Patting them dry before assembling also reduces water content.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rollatini, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

Is it necessary to use a mandoline slicer?

While a mandoline slicer ensures uniform thin slices, a sharp knife can also be used with careful slicing.

Can I freeze Zucchini Rollatini?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as zucchini can become mushy upon thawing.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works well. Opt for a low-sugar version if following a keto diet.

How thin should the zucchini slices be?

Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick to ensure they are

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