Eggplant Rolls

Delicious Eggplant Rolls - a simple and quick recipe for a savory appetizer

Eggplant rolls are a dish that combines the delicate taste of vegetables with the savory flavor of meat and cheese, creating an explosion of aromas that delights the taste buds. They can be served as an appetizer or as a main course, and their versatility makes them ideal for any occasion. Over time, eggplant recipes have been appreciated and adapted in numerous ways, but today I will present you with a simple yet spectacular version that will leave everyone speechless.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg round eggplants (about 2 large eggplants)
- 300 g sliced pressed ham
- 300 g sliced cheese
- 400 g tomato sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for the tomato sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the eggplants. Wash the eggplants well under cold running water, then cut off the ends. Using a sharp knife, slice the eggplants into thin slices, about 3-4 mm thick. These slices will be the base of our savory rolls.

2. Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Place the eggplant slices on the grill and sprinkle a little salt on each side. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they become soft and have grill marks. This step will not only intensify the flavors but will also add an appetizing look to the rolls.

3. Once you have finished cooking all the eggplant slices, let them cool slightly. In the meantime, prepare the tomato sauce. In a bowl, add the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, basil, two tablespoons of olive oil, and if you want to reduce the acidity of the sauce, a tablespoon of sugar. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.

4. Now it's time to prepare the rolls. On each slice of eggplant, place a slice of pressed ham and a slice of cheese. Carefully roll up the eggplant slices, being careful not to tear them, and if necessary, secure the rolls with a toothpick to maintain their shape.

5. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a baking dish, add half of the previously prepared tomato sauce, then place the eggplant rolls on top. Cover the rolls with the remaining tomato sauce. This layer of sauce will keep the rolls moist and full of flavor.

6. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and the rolls are heated through. The combined aromas will fill your kitchen, and the final result will be truly spectacular!

Serving suggestions:
These eggplant rolls are delicious served warm, right after you take them out of the oven. You can accompany them with a fresh arugula and cherry tomato salad, drizzled with a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a delightful contrast. A dry white wine or a fruit cocktail can also perfectly complement this dish.

Practical tips:
- If you want to make the rolls lighter, you can replace the ham with a vegetarian option, such as tofu or grilled vegetables.
- For a richer taste, add some chopped green or black olives to the tomato sauce.
- Storage: These rolls can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutritional benefits:
Eggplants are rich in fiber and antioxidants, being considered a healthy food that helps maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, the ham and cheese add essential proteins, while the tomato sauce provides vitamin C.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables instead of eggplants? Yes, you can try zucchini or even bell peppers for a different variant.
- Can I prepare the rolls in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and keep them in the refrigerator, and when you are ready to bake them, just place them directly in the oven.

With this eggplant roll recipe, you are on the right track to becoming a cooking master! Experiment with the ingredients and create a version that represents your personal culinary style. Enjoy your meal!