Teresa's Recipes
Involtini Primavera
Involtini Primavera is a delightful Italian dish that embodies the essence of spring with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. This dish features tender, thinly sliced eggplant rolled around a creamy filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach, all baked in a rich, savory tomato sauce. The combination of melted cheeses and aromatic basil makes each bite a culinary experience, reminiscent of sun-drenched Italian gardens. Perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, Involtini Primavera is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and Italian tradition.
Ingredients
- 2 medium, sliced lengthwise into thin slices Eggplant
- 3 tablespoons, for brushing Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup, chopped (plus extra for garnish) Fresh basil
- 2 cups, fresh and chopped Spinach
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1 cup, shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups Tomato sauce
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 24g
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 6g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until soft and slightly golden.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, chopped spinach, and minced garlic. Mix until well blended.
- Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto each eggplant slice, then roll up the slices and secure with a toothpick.
- In a baking dish, pour half of the tomato sauce to create a base layer. Place the eggplant rolls in the dish, seam side down, and cover with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Before serving, garnish with additional chopped basil for a fresh touch.
Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- You can substitute the spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can grill the eggplant slices instead of baking them.