Baked Zucchini Roll-ups with Spinach and Ricotta
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Cooking Method: Oven-Baked
Ingredients
- 3 large zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry and chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1½ cups marinara sauce, divided
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt, plus extra for the zucchini
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
Step 1: Slice and Drain the Zucchini
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the zucchini lengthwise into strips approximately ⅛ inch thick. Aim for 12–16 wide strips. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let stand for 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat thoroughly dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Soften the Zucchini
Arrange the strips in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and roast for 5–7 minutes, until pliable but still firm enough to handle. Set aside to cool slightly, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, spinach, egg, garlic, Parmesan, ½ cup mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly combined. The filling should be thick and easy to spoon.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish. Divide the filling evenly among the zucchini strips, placing it near one end of each strip. Gently roll up the strips and arrange them seam-side down in the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Sauce and Cheese
Spoon the remaining ½ cup marinara over the roll-ups. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the rolls.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling
Bake uncovered for 25–28 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling, the cheese has melted, and the filling is set. For a golden topping, broil for another 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Use a broiler-safe baking dish.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes before serving. Finish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Tips
- Choose large, straight zucchini to make slicing and rolling easier.
- Keep the strips evenly sliced so they soften at the same rate.
- Squeeze the spinach thoroughly and drain any excess liquid from the ricotta.
- Use a thick marinara sauce to keep the dish from becoming watery.
- Roll gently and avoid packing the filling too tightly.
- Serve with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread.
