Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups

Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups are a delightful dish that combines fresh zucchini with creamy cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. These roll-ups are not only easy to prepare but also offer a rich flavor profile that will impress your family and friends. The combination of zucchini and cheese creates a satisfying meal that is both indulgent and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile Dish: Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, making them suitable for various meals.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich cheese, these roll-ups are a nutritious choice without compromising on taste.
• Customizable Flavors: You can easily adjust the herbs and spices to suit your palate, allowing for endless variations.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These roll-ups can be made in advance, stored in the fridge, and reheated, making them ideal for busy weeks.

Tools and Preparation

To make Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
• Baking sheets
• Paper towels
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: This tool ensures uniform thickness when slicing zucchini, crucial for even cooking.
• Baking sheets: They help in sweating the zucchini efficiently without causing a mess.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining the cheese filling thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini

• Large Zucchini (4 medium-large): The foundation of our roll-ups. Look for zucchini that are relatively straight and uniform in width (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to ensure you get long, even strips for rolling. Their mild, slightly sweet flavor is the perfect canvas for the savory cheese filling.

For the Cheese Filling

• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (15 ounces): This provides the creamy, luscious texture for the filling. Whole milk ricotta is recommended for its richer flavor and consistency, but part-skim will also work. Draining any excess whey is key for a thick filling.
• Shredded Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese (1.5 cups, divided): The ultimate melting cheese used in both filling and topping.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, divided): Brings a sharp flavor that cuts through richness.
• Large Egg (1): Acts as a binder to help set the filling during baking.

For Seasoning

• Minced Garlic (3 cloves): Provides aromatic flavor; freshly minced offers best results.
• Fresh Basil (¼ cup, chopped): Lends a classic Italian note; substitute dried if needed.
• Salt (1.5 teaspoons, divided): Essential for flavor enhancement and moisture control.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds mild heat to complement other flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): A pinch adds warmth if desired.

For Assembly

• Your Favorite Marinara Sauce (2 cups): Forms a flavorful base in the baking dish.

How to Make Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Planks

1. Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly. Trim off the stem and blossom ends.
2. Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, slice zucchini lengthwise into planks about ⅛-inch thick until you have approximately 24-30 good planks.

Step 2: Sweat the Zucchini

1. Arrange zucchini planks on baking sheets lined with paper towels.
2. Sprinkle evenly with 1 teaspoon of salt and let sit for 20-30 minutes until moisture beads appear on the surface.

Step 3: Dry the Zucchini

1. Pat each plank dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture effectively.

Step 4: Create the Cheese Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, ½ cup grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, remaining salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
2. Mix thoroughly until well-combined; it should be thick.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 6: Assemble the Roll-Ups

1. Take one dry zucchini plank and spread about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of cheese filling over it.
2. Starting from one short end, carefully roll up tightly.

Step 7: Arrange in Baking Dish

1. Place each roll-up seam-side down into the prepared baking dish nestled into marinara sauce until all planks are filled.

Step 8: Top and Bake

1. Spoon remaining marinara sauce over tops of zucchini rolls.
2. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over sauce.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake in preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 10: Rest Before Serving

1. Allow resting time of at least 10 minutes before serving; garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.

These delicious Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups are sure to become a favorite! Enjoy!

How to Serve Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups

Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, these roll-ups can be the star of the show or a delightful complement to your table.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction to echo flavors from the roll-ups.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Seasoned Grilled Veggies: Grill bell peppers, asparagus, and eggplant tossed in olive oil and herbs for a smoky side.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Roast carrots and sweet potatoes seasoned with salt and pepper for a hearty addition.

Accompany with Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve slices of crispy garlic bread as an excellent vehicle for any extra marinara sauce.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Bake up some cheesy breadsticks to dip into the marinara sauce for added indulgence.

Add a Flavorful Marinara Sauce

• Extra Marinara on the Side: Offer additional marinara sauce for dipping or drizzling over the roll-ups to enhance flavor.
• Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, serve alongside a spicy arrabbiata sauce that complements the cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups

To achieve the best Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups, pay attention to these key tips. They will help you create perfectly rolled, flavorful dishes every time.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini: Select firm zucchinis with smooth skin for easy slicing and better flavor.
• Sweat the Zucchini Planks: This step is crucial for removing excess moisture, preventing sogginess in your roll-ups.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh ricotta and high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for optimal taste and texture.
• Roll Tightly: Ensure each zucchini plank is tightly rolled around the filling to keep everything intact during baking.
• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing the roll-ups to rest after baking helps them hold their shape when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups

Complement your Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal while providing variety.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside; these potatoes add heartiness to your plate.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes a perfect summer side that pairs beautifully with cheesy flavors.
3. Couscous Salad: Lightly seasoned couscous mixed with diced veggies adds texture and freshness.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice offers brightness alongside rich roll-ups.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious quinoa dish with herbs can provide an earthy balance to your meal.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or grains complement the flavors of zucchini while adding color to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Sweating Step: Not sweating the zucchini can lead to soggy roll-ups. Always sprinkle salt on the planks and let them rest to draw out excess moisture.
• Using Too Much Filling: Overfilling the zucchini can cause the filling to ooze out during baking. Use 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of filling for each plank to keep it contained.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect cooking times and textures. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before placing your dish inside.
• Choosing the Wrong Cheese: Using fresh mozzarella instead of low-moisture mozzarella may lead to watery results. Stick with low-moisture cheese for best melting and flavor.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the roll-ups right after baking can make them fall apart. Allowing them to rest for at least 10 minutes helps them set better.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are cooled completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups

• Freeze unbaked roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups that may help you perfect your dish.

Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

You can use eggplant or thinly sliced bell peppers as alternatives, though they will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I make my Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups gluten-free?

Ensure that any marinara sauce used is gluten-free, as well as checking all cheese ingredients.

What can I serve with Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups?

These roll-ups pair well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I prepare Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the fridge before baking.

Are there variations I can try with this recipe?

Feel free to add cooked ground turkey or beef into the cheese filling for added protein, or mix different herbs for flavor twists.

Final Thoughts

Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any dinner table. This versatile recipe allows you to customize fillings or sauces according to your preferences, making it an exciting choice for meal prep or weeknight dinners. Give it a try, and enjoy these delicious rolls!