Eggplant Involtini with Ricotta and Basil

Craving comforting eggplant recipes? My Eggplant Involtini is melt-in-your-mouth delicious! Ricotta & basil filling makes it special. Get the recipe now!

June 4, 2025
By Emily Torres.

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Alright, let's dive into the world of eggplant recipes ! ever find yourself staring at a shiny purple eggplant wondering what to do with it? honestly, i've been there.

Let's make eggplant involtini with ricotta and basil , that will change your mind forever. we're talking tender eggplant, creamy ricotta, and a burst of fresh basil.

Eggplant Involtini: Italian Sunshine on a Plate

This dish is inspired by classic italian flavours. it's like a warm hug from nonna, but easier to make. while it's a medium-level recipe, trust me, even i managed it! it takes about an hour, give or take, and makes enough for 4-6 people.

Perfect for a cosy weeknight meal or a relaxed sunday lunch. i think this is one of those good eggplant recipes that’s gonna make you look like a culinary genius, even if you just follow the instructions.

Main Benefits: Why You'll Love It

Beyond the deliciousness, this dish is packed with goodness. eggplant is a great source of fiber and antioxidants, so you can feel good about indulging.

It's a fantastic vegetarian option that’s satisfying and full of flavour. honestly, if you're looking for easy eggplant recipes , this is a winner.

It's special because it transforms humble ingredients into something truly memorable. plus, it’s such a crowd-pleaser.

Ready to see what ingredients you'll need?

Alright, let's talk ingredients! You can’t make magic without them, right? This section’s all about what you need to create amazing eggplant recipes .

Eggplant Involtini with Ricotta and Basil Recipe Card

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Preparation time:30 Mins

Cooking time:40 Mins

Servings:6 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants (about 1.5 pounds total), sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, drained well
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 24 ounces jarred marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

• Salt eggplant slices and arrange on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil.
• Brush eggplant slices with olive oil on both sides. Cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside to cool slightly. This is one of the best eggplant recipes!
• In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, egg, garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the prepared baking dish. Place a spoonful of ricotta filling at one end of an eggplant slice. Roll the eggplant slice tightly, securing the filling inside. Place seam-side down in the baking dish.
• Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the eggplant rolls. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

Getting Started: Ingredients for Success

First, we'll run through the absolute must-haves. And don't worry, I will make it easy.

Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter

We're diving headfirst into the heart of our eggplant recipes . The most important part is of course eggplants!.

• Eggplant: 2 large ones (about 1.5 pounds total, or 680 grams ). Look for firm, shiny skin. No blemishes. This is where the magic starts for all the good eggplant recipes .
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces ( 425g ), whole milk, well-drained. Good ricotta is creamy, not watery. Honestly, this is so important.
• Marinara Sauce: 24 ounces ( 680g ), jarred or homemade. A good sauce can save the day, you know?
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup ( 50g ), grated. Adds that salty, cheesy kick that’s just essential.
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup chopped ( 6g ). Don't skimp on the fresh basil! Its aroma is heavenly.
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup ( 60 ml ), plus more for drizzling. Extra virgin, please! It makes a difference.
• Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten. This is for binding the filling.

Seasoning Notes: That Je ne sais quoi

Let's spice things up a little, shall we?

• Essential Spices: Salt, pepper, garlic. The holy trinity. We're talking about 1 tsp ( 5 ml ) kosher salt and 1/2 tsp ( 2.5 ml ) black pepper to start.
• Flavor Enhancers: Red pepper flakes. A pinch for a little heat. Because who doesn't like a little kick?
• Aromatics: Garlic, minced. One clove will do the trick. Honestly, the more garlic, the merrier!
• Quick Subs: Dried basil instead of fresh (1 tsp). But fresh is always better, trust me.

Equipment You'll Need: Simple is Best

You don't need fancy gear. Just the basics will do for these easy egg plant recipes .

• Essential Tools: A sharp knife (or mandoline), a large baking sheet, colander and 9x13 inch baking dish.
• Household Alternatives: A good oven and your trusty hands. I swear, sometimes that's all you need.

Okay, so that's everything you need before you go ahead and make air fried eggplant recipes or crispy eggplant parmesan air fryer ! it’s all about high-quality ingredients.

Salting your aubergines to have a crispy and delicious italian fried eggplant is key. now let's get to that delicious sliced eggplant recipes or you can now go and learn how to air fry eggplant or things to do with eggplant .

Alright, let's dive into some cooking, shall we? forget dry, boring recipes! today we're talking cooking methods, particularly how to get the most out of your eggplant recipes .

Let's make something amazing! did you know some studies show that the average person spends nearly 4. 5 hours a week cooking? we're going to make every minute count!

Prep Like a Pro for Eggplant Perfection

First, mise en place is key, my friend. slice your eggplant. get that ricotta ready. chop your herbs. honestly, good prep is half the battle.

For time-saving, i like to slice my eggplant with a mandoline. it's quick and even! but be careful , those things are sharp! safety first, always.

From Flat to Fab: Rolling with Eggplant

Alright, time for the nitty-gritty. Let's talk about how to make some Crispy Eggplant Parmesan Air Fryer or some other awesome eggplant recipes .

1. Salt your sliced eggplant. Place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Let them chill out for 30 minutes . This draws out the water. No one wants soggy eggplant.
2. Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Lightly grease your baking dish.
3. Brush eggplant with olive oil. Cook for about 5- 7 minutes per side . Set aside to cool.
4. Mix ricotta, parmesan, basil, egg, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Spread marinara in your dish. Place ricotta on an eggplant slice. Roll it tight. Place it seam-down.
6. Spoon remaining sauce over the rolls. Bake for 35- 40 minutes . Until hot and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil. Serve. Easy peasy!

Pro Tips & Tricks: Level Up Your Eggplant Game

Alright, listen up. this is important! avoid overfilling the involtini. trust me, i've been there. messy! for that perfect italian fried eggplant flavor use a good quality marinara sauce.

It makes all the difference! a great make-ahead option is to assemble the involtini, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

So, there you have it. some tips on making yummy eggplant recipes . now, go forth and conquer that eggplant! have fun creating some amazing air fried eggplant recipes .

It's time to get creative. there are many things to do with eggplant . maybe create some easy eggplant recipes . or some other good eggplant recipes with sliced eggplant recipes .

I hope it helps when finding new eggplant recipes in air fryer or other styles. happy cooking, and don't forget to have a laugh while you're at it!

Right then, let's chat about a few extra bits and bobs to make this Eggplant Involtini recipe even better, shall we? Honestly, these little tips can make all the difference.

Recipe Notes: The Nitty-Gritty

These little nuggets of wisdom really elevate your eggplant recipes from good to amazing . they're especially useful if you're venturing into the realm of crispy eggplant parmesan air fryer or trying out different ways of how to air fry eggplant .

Serving Suggestions: Show It Off!

Presentation matters. imagine a perfectly plated involtini, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. a sprinkle of fresh basil? chef's kiss! honestly, it's a visual treat.

Serve them on a bed of creamy polenta. how about a simple side salad of rocket with a lemon vinaigrette? and for a perfect pairing, think a chilled glass of pinot grigio.

Storage Tips: Make It Last

Leftovers, you say? lucky you! pop those bad boys into an airtight container. they will be great in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you're thinking longer term, freezing is an option. just make sure they're properly cooled first. reheating? oven is best, but a quick zap in the microwave works too.

It's honestly super simple!

Variations: Make It Your Own

Fancy a bit of a twist? for a dietary adaptation, try a vegan version with cashew ricotta. trust me, it's surprisingly good! for a seasonal swap, use roasted butternut squash instead of eggplant in autumn.

Now that is what i call good eggplant recipes.

Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Body

Let's be honest. we all want to know what we're putting in our bodies. each serving clocks in around 320 calories.

You're getting about 18g of protein, which is rather neat. plus, around 5g of fiber to keep things moving. this isn't just tasty.

It's also rather beneficial. i love me a easy egg plant recipes

Well, there you have it! some extra tips. now, go get cooking! you'll be whipping up delicious air fried eggplant recipes and experimenting with all sorts of sliced eggplant recipes in no time.

And if you're scratching your head thinking "what things to do with eggplant " this involtini recipe is a winner! and if you want to know how to make a italian fried eggplant this recipe is for you.

Give it a go and see what happens!.