Are you looking for a dish that perfectly balances flavor, freshness, and simplicity? Look no further than Grilled Zucchini Rollups Stuffed with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow Roasted Tomatoes. This delectable recipe encapsulates the essence of summer with its vibrant ingredients and bright flavors, making it the perfect appetizer or light lunch option for any occasion. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also caters to a variety of dietary preferences, making it a fantastic go-to for gatherings.
This dish is not just about its eye-catching presentation; the combination of grilled zucchini, creamy ricotta, aromatic basil, and sweet slow-roasted tomatoes creates a harmonious blend of flavors that your taste buds will thank you for. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time while still delivering impressive results. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, these rollups are sure to impress your guests and family alike.
The fresh basil and zesty lemon elevate the ricotta cheese, while the slow-roasted tomatoes add a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Best of all, this recipe is customizable, allowing you to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preferences. Get ready to wow your friends and family with these luscious Grilled Zucchini Rollups!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Zucchini Rollups Recipe
- Flavorful & Fresh: The combination of lemon-basil ricotta and slow-roasted tomatoes offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable packed with vitamins and minerals, making this recipe not only delicious but also healthy.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be made in under an hour.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These rollups can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature, making them perfect for lunches or potlucks.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make this dish your own!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before jumping into the cooking process, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C) to roast the cherry tomatoes. You’ll need a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup—this is where the tomatoes will roast to sweetness.
For grilling the zucchini, a grill pan or outdoor grill is ideal; just ensure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking. You’ll also need a vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer to cut the zucchini into even strips. A mixing bowl for the ricotta mixture and a spoon for filling the zucchini will round out your prep tools. Make sure you have sharp knives on hand to slice the zucchini and tomatoes with ease.
Once you’ve gathered all your tools and ingredients, you’re ready to start creating these delightful rollups!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin strips (300 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (225 g)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (2 g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (5 g)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (150 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (1 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves or microgreens for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Slow-Roasting the Tomatoes
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to create the perfect environment for slow-roasting the tomatoes. In a medium bowl, gently toss the cherry tomatoes with one tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well-coated. Spread the tomatoes evenly on a lined baking sheet. Roasting will concentrate their flavor and soften their texture, taking about 25 to 30 minutes. You want them to become tender and slightly caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Preparing the Zucchini
While the tomatoes are roasting, prepare the zucchini strips. Using a mandoline slicer or a vegetable peeler, carefully slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips. This technique allows for easy rolling and filling once grilled. Brush each zucchini slice lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan over medium heat and grill each zucchini slice for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they become tender. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking, as you want them pliable for rolling.
Step 3: Making the Ricotta Filling
While the zucchini is grilling, prepare the lemon-basil ricotta mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, one tablespoon of lemon juice, one teaspoon of lemon zest, and two tablespoons of freshly chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will serve as a delightful filling for your zucchini rollups, and the lemon and basil add a refreshing twist that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Assembling the Rollups
Now the fun part begins! Take a grilled zucchini strip and spoon a dollop of the ricotta mixture at one end. Add a few roasted tomatoes on top of the ricotta, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors. Carefully roll the zucchini strip up tightly around the filling. Place seam-side down on a serving platter and repeat with the remaining zucchini and filling. The presentation is key—arranging the rollups neatly will make them even more appealing to your guests!
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
Once all the rollups are assembled, you can garnish them with fresh basil leaves or microgreens for an added touch of color and flavor. These rollups can be served immediately while warm or set aside to cool and enjoy at room temperature. The flavor of the ingredients will develop further if allowed to rest for a bit, making this dish great for meal prep or potlucks.
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or shrimp to the ricotta mixture for an extra protein boost.
- Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers or eggplant, for a more colorful plate.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or even a hint of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your zucchini slices are thin enough to roll easily, but not so thin that they fall apart on the grill.
- For added creaminess, consider blending the ricotta with a little cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these rollups with a light salad for a refreshing summer meal.
- Serve with balsamic glaze drizzled over the top for added flavor.
Tips
- For a more intense flavor, let the rollups sit for 30 minutes after assembling to allow the flavors to meld together.
- The rollups can be made a day in advance—just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 180 per serving (approx.)
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 220mg
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star, feel free to explore other vegetables such as eggplant or bell peppers, cut into strips.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, these Grilled Zucchini Rollups are gluten-free, making them a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make the ricotta filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
How long can I store the rollups?
The rollups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. They taste great cold too!
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Grilled Zucchini Rollups Stuffed with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow Roasted Tomatoes are not just a visually pleasing dish, but also a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone will love. Their versatility to be served warm, at room temperature or cold makes them an excellent option for various occasions—from summer picnics to dinner parties. We encourage you to try this recipe and consider experimenting with different fillings to make it your own. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below. Enjoy your delicious indoor or outdoor feast with these creamy, savory rollups that highlight the vibrant tastes of fresh ingredients!
Print
Grilled Zucchini Rollups Stuffed with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow Roasted Tomatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This delectable recipe encapsulates the essence of summer with its vibrant ingredients and bright flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin strips (300 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (225 g)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (2 g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (5 g)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (150 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (1 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves or microgreens for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to create the perfect environment for slow-roasting the tomatoes. In a medium bowl, gently toss the cherry tomatoes with one tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well-coated. Spread the tomatoes evenly on a lined baking sheet. Roasting will concentrate their flavor and soften their texture, taking about 25 to 30 minutes. You want them to become tender and slightly caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- While the tomatoes are roasting, prepare the zucchini strips. Using a mandoline slicer or a vegetable peeler, carefully slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips. This technique allows for easy rolling and filling once grilled. Brush each zucchini slice lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan over medium heat and grill each zucchini slice for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they become tender. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking, as you want them pliable for rolling.
- While the zucchini is grilling, prepare the lemon-basil ricotta mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, one tablespoon of lemon juice, one teaspoon of lemon zest, and two tablespoons of freshly chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will serve as a delightful filling for your zucchini rollups, and the lemon and basil add a refreshing twist that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Now the fun part begins! Take a grilled zucchini strip and spoon a dollop of the ricotta mixture at one end. Add a few roasted tomatoes on top of the ricotta, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors. Carefully roll the zucchini strip up tightly around the filling. Place seam-side down on a serving platter and repeat with the remaining zucchini and filling. The presentation is key—arranging the rollups neatly will make them even more appealing to your guests!
- Once all the rollups are assembled, you can garnish them with fresh basil leaves or microgreens for an added touch of color and flavor. These rollups can be served immediately while warm or set aside to cool and enjoy at room temperature. The flavor of the ingredients will develop further if allowed to rest for a bit, making this dish great for meal prep or potlucks.
Notes
Ensure your zucchini slices are thin enough to roll easily, but not so thin that they fall apart on the grill.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Protein: 8 g