Eggplant rolls with cheese and ham

Eggplant rolls with cheese and ham

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of eggplant rolls with cheese and ham! These dishes are not only an excellent option for festive meals but also a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner. The combination of eggplant, cheese, and ham is absolutely irresistible, and their preparation is simpler than you might think. Let's begin the culinary adventure!

A brief history

Eggplants have a long history in traditional cooking, being used in numerous recipes around the world. These versatile vegetables are rich in antioxidants and fiber, providing not only a delicious taste but also significant nutritional benefits. Eggplant rolls with cheese and ham are a modern reinterpretation of classic dishes, easily adaptable to personal preferences.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 large eggplant (approximately 400-500 g)
- 200 g ham (or bacon for a more savory option)
- 200 g cheese (or mozzarella if you prefer a milder flavor)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Salt (to taste)

Ingredient tips

1. Choosing the eggplant: Opt for a firm eggplant, without spots or defects. Smaller eggplants are sweeter and less bitter.

2. Type of ham: You can use cooking ham, turkey ham, or even bacon, depending on your preferences. Bacon will give a smoky flavor that will elevate the rolls.

3. The cheese: Choose a cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or aged cheese.

Preparation method

1. Preparing the eggplant:
- Wash the eggplants under cold running water and slice them thinly, about 5 mm thick, lengthwise. This will allow them to cook evenly.
- Sprinkle salt on each slice of eggplant and let them sit for 15 minutes. The salt will help remove excess water and bitterness from the eggplants.

2. Baking the eggplant:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Rinse the eggplant slices with cold water to remove the salt. Dry them with a kitchen towel.
- Brush each slice with a little olive oil, then place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or on a grill, making sure they do not overlap.
- Bake the eggplants for 20-25 minutes, until they become soft and slightly browned. You can flip the slices halfway through for even browning.

3. Assembling the rolls:
- Once the eggplants are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- On each baked eggplant slice, place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese. You can use a knife to spread the cheese evenly over the eggplant slice.
- Roll each slice of eggplant with the filling and secure it with a toothpick to maintain its shape.

4. Finalizing the dish:
- Place the rolls on a baking tray and return them to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden.

Serving

Eggplant rolls with cheese and ham are delicious served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Arrange them on a platter, sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of color and flavor. These rolls pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of rice for a complete lunch.

Possible variations

To add a twist to your recipe, you can try the following variations:

- Adding vegetables: You can add thin slices of zucchini or bell pepper between the slices of ham and cheese.
- Spices and herbs: Sprinkle a little oregano, basil, or freshly ground pepper for a more complex flavor.
- Vegetarian rolls: Replace the ham with slices of sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I prepare the eggplant rolls a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until serving. When you're ready to serve, just pop them in the oven to reheat.

2. What else can I use instead of cheese?
You can use goat cheese or ricotta for a more intense flavor. You can also experiment with lactose-free cheeses if you have an intolerance.

3. Can I fry the eggplants in a pan?
Absolutely! If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can fry the eggplants in a pan with a little olive oil until they turn golden.

Nutritional benefits

Eggplants are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that help combat inflammation. Combining them with cheese and ham adds protein and calcium to the diet, making these rolls a balanced appetizer or main dish.

In conclusion, eggplant rolls with cheese and ham are a refined yet easy-to-make choice, perfect for any occasion. By experimenting with ingredients and techniques, you can create a truly personalized and tasty dish. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every step of this culinary adventure! Bon appétit!