Fresh, smoky, and elegant, Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner. These rollups showcase the vibrant flavors of grilled zucchini paired with a light and creamy ricotta mixture infused with fresh basil and zesty lemon. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they offer a unique twist on traditional dishes that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these rollups are easy to whip up.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon-basil ricotta and slow-roasted tomatoes creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for appetizers, side dishes, or even as a light main course.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, they make for a nutritious option.
- Impressive Presentation: Their elegant appearance makes them ideal for entertaining guests.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious rollups, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful char marks and smoky flavor in the zucchini.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for even zucchini strips, making rolling easier.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for blending the ricotta filling thoroughly without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Rollups:
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Salt, to taste
How to Make Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Begin by slicing the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they grill well without falling apart.
- Lightly brush both sides of each zucchini strip with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Step 2: Grill the Zucchini
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Place the zucchini strips on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they become tender and have nice grill marks. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Lemon-Basil Ricotta Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, freshly chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Step 4: Assemble the Rollups
- Take one grilled zucchini strip and place about one tablespoon of the ricotta mixture at one end.
- Carefully roll it up tightly and secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Repeat this process until all zucchini strips are filled and rolled.
Step 5: Serve with Slow-Roasted Tomatoes
- Pair your grilled zucchini rollups with slow-roasted tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor. Simply roast sliced tomatoes in the oven until soft and caramelized.
- Serve immediately as an appetizer or side dish. Enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes
Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. These rollups are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- A light, mixed greens salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the rollups.
Serve with Garlic Bread
- Crispy garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and balances the creaminess of the ricotta cheese.
Accompany with Quinoa
- Fluffy quinoa provides a nutritious base that absorbs the juices from the rollups, enhancing each bite.
Add a Touch of Pesto
- Drizzling homemade or store-bought pesto over the rollups gives an aromatic herbaceous kick that pairs beautifully.
How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes
To make your Grilled Zucchini Rollups even more delightful, consider these tips. Each step will ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture.
- Choose fresh zucchinis: Select firm zucchinis without blemishes for optimal flavor and texture.
- Slice evenly: Cut zucchini into uniform strips to ensure even grilling and prevent tearing during assembly.
- Marinate beforehand: Brush zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt before grilling for enhanced taste.
- Use high-quality ricotta: Opt for creamy, fresh ricotta cheese for a luscious filling that elevates the dish.
- Grill on medium heat: This allows the zucchini to cook through without becoming mushy or burnt.
- Let cool slightly: Allow grilled zucchini to cool before rolling; this helps maintain their shape.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes
When serving Grilled Zucchini Rollups, pairing them with complementary side dishes enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds depth and flavor.
- Couscous Salad: This light salad, featuring cucumbers and tomatoes, is refreshing and pairs well with the richness of the rollups.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs creates a lovely side that complements the dish’s flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled alongside the rollups provide added nutrition and a smoky taste.
- Caprese Salad: Layered tomatoes and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a classic Italian touch to your meal.
- Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad tossed in lemon dressing adds heartiness while keeping it light.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Zucchini: Grilling zucchini too long can make it mushy. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side to keep it tender yet firm.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the zucchini strips will lead to bland rollups. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle salt before grilling.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ricotta can affect the texture and flavor. Let it sit at room temperature for a bit before mixing in herbs.
- Not Prepping Tomatoes Properly: Failing to slow roast tomatoes can result in a watery filling. Ensure they’re dried out for concentrated flavor.
- Ignoring Presentation: A messy rollup may not appeal visually. Take your time to assemble neatly for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Grilled Zucchini Rollups in an airtight container.
- They last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep them separate from any sauce to avoid sogginess.
Freezing Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes
- Wrap each rollup individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes?
Grilled Zucchini Rollups are thin strips of zucchini filled with a creamy lemon-basil ricotta cheese and topped with slow-roasted tomatoes. They are fresh, smoky, and perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Can I customize the filling for my Grilled Zucchini Rollups?
Absolutely! You can add different herbs like thyme or dill, or incorporate spinach for added nutrition. Experimenting will create unique flavors.
How do I ensure my zucchini slices are evenly cut?
Using a mandoline slicer allows you to achieve uniform thickness easily, ensuring even cooking while grilling.
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes! Eggplant or bell peppers can be great alternatives, providing different flavors and textures while still being delicious.
Are these rollups suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes provide a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that cater to various tastes. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and pairings based on personal preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and explore different variations!
Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes
Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are a fresh and elegant dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer dining. These delightful rollups feature tender, grilled zucchini strips filled with a creamy lemon-basil ricotta mixture, complemented by the rich flavor of slow-roasted tomatoes. Ideal as an appetizer or a light main course, they are not only visually stunning but also packed with nutritious ingredients, making them a perfect choice for gatherings or intimate dinners. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite while impressing your guests with this gourmet vegetable dish.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 rollups) 1x
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Ricotta cheese
- Fresh basil
- Lemon juice
- Black pepper
- Tomatoes (for roasting)
Instructions
- Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick) and brush both sides with olive oil and salt.
- Preheat your grill over medium heat and grill zucchini strips for 2-3 minutes per side until tender with grill marks. Let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.
- Place about one tablespoon of the filling at one end of each zucchini strip and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Serve immediately alongside slow-roasted tomatoes for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rollups (100g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For extra flavor variations, consider adding herbs like thyme or dill to the ricotta mixture. Experiment with other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers for different textures and tastes.