Rosemary Rolls

Rosemary Rolls: A Flavorful Delicacy for Special Moments

Happy name day to everyone celebrating today! May this day be filled with health, joy, and beautiful moments with loved ones. Today, I present to you a delicious and aromatic recipe: cheese and rosemary rolls. These rolls are not only a feast for the taste buds but also an excellent way to bring Mediterranean flavors into your kitchen.

A Brief History of the Magic Ingredient - Rosemary. This ancient herb, native to the Mediterranean regions, has been revered over time for its aromatic and medicinal properties. Its name comes from the Latin "ros marinus," which translates to "dew of the sea." Rosemary was believed to have the ability to purify the air and ward off evil spirits, which is why it was burned in purification ceremonies. In the kitchen, rosemary finds its place not only in meat dishes but also in surprising combinations with vegetables. I will guide you step by step to achieve perfect, flavorful rolls.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 35-45 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the rolls:
- 2 small zucchinis
- 2 small eggplants
- 500 g cottage cheese (preferably with a higher fat content)
- 100 g canned tomatoes (from Cirio)
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon rosemary powder (or more, if you prefer a stronger flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A bit of oil for greasing the dish

Ingredient Details

Zucchini and eggplants: Choose fresh, firm vegetables without blemishes for the best results. The slices of zucchini and eggplant should be as thin as possible to allow the filling to integrate perfectly.

Cottage cheese: A higher fat content cheese will provide the rolls with a creamier texture and richer flavor.

Rosemary: Use fresh rosemary if possible, for a more intense taste. You can finely chop a few sprigs before adding them to the mixture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the vegetables: Wash the zucchinis and eggplants well, then slice them thinly lengthwise. If you have a sharp knife, this step will be quick and efficient. Use a mandoline for uniform results if you have one handy.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: Heat a pan with a little oil over medium heat. Add the slices of zucchini and eggplant and sauté for 2-3 minutes. The goal is to soften them slightly, making them easier to roll. Let them cool down a bit.

3. Preparing the filling: In a saucepan, place the canned tomatoes and add the rosemary. Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-8 minutes. This step will enhance the flavor of the tomatoes and allow the rosemary to release its essence.

4. Mixing the cheese: In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the egg yolks, add the tomato and rosemary mixture, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be homogeneous with a creamy texture.

5. Assembling the rolls: Take a slice of zucchini or eggplant and spread a teaspoon of the cheese mixture on it. Carefully roll the slices, forming rolls. Place them in a greased ceramic dish, seam side down, to prevent them from unraveling.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the rolls for 35-45 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and slightly browned. The aroma that will fill your kitchen while baking is simply irresistible!

Chef's Tip

To achieve crispier rolls, you can sprinkle a little breadcrumbs over each roll before baking. You can also experiment with other cheeses, such as feta or mozzarella, for variations in flavor.

Serving and Pairing

These rosemary rolls are delicious served warm but can also be enjoyed cold as an appetizer. I recommend pairing them with a fresh arugula salad, cherry tomatoes, and a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine would perfectly complement the meal!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of rosemary rolls contains approximately:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g

These rolls offer an ideal combination of protein from the cheese and fiber from the vegetables, making them a healthy and satisfying choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with zucchini or even bell peppers, depending on your preferences.

2. What can I do with leftover filling?
You can use the leftover filling as a sauce for pasta or as a topping for bruschetta.

3. How can I store the rolls?
The rolls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

I hope this recipe brings you joy and satisfaction in the kitchen! May you enjoy every bite and share this delicacy with your loved ones. Bon appétit!