Grilled Zucchini Ricotta & Herb Roll-Ups
Ingredients
- 3 large zucchini, sliced thinly lengthwise into ribbons
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh spinach or herbs (basil, parsley, mint)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or pesto (for drizzling)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh microgreens or basil leaves for garnish
Detailed Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini
Begin by washing and drying the zucchini. Slice each zucchini thinly lengthwise into ribbons.
The ribbons should be thin enough to become flexible on the grill but sturdy enough to hold the creamy filling without tearing.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Lightly brush the zucchini ribbons with olive oil. Season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Grill the Zucchini
Place the zucchini ribbons onto the heated grill pan or skillet.
Grill for 1–2 minutes per side, turning carefully when the first side develops distinct grill marks.
The zucchini should become pliable and tender, but it should not be overly soft or mushy.
Once cooked, transfer the zucchini ribbons to a plate or clean surface and allow them to cool slightly.
Cooling them briefly makes the roll-up process easier because the ribbons will be easier to handle.
3. Roast the Tomatoes
Use the same grill pan or skillet to cook the tomatoes.
Add the 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes to the pan along with a splash of olive oil.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Cook the tomatoes for 3–5 minutes, turning them occasionally so they cook evenly.
They should become soft and slightly blistered, developing a lightly roasted exterior while remaining juicy inside.
Once ready, set them aside while you prepare the filling.
4. Make the Ricotta Filling
Add 1 cup ricotta cheese to a medium mixing bowl.
Add:
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh spinach or herbs
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined.
The ricotta creates a creamy base, while feta or goat cheese adds a pleasantly tangy flavor. The fresh spinach or herbs provide freshness, and lemon zest brightens the entire filling.
Avoid overmixing. You simply want the ingredients evenly distributed while keeping the mixture creamy.
5. Prepare the Zucchini for Rolling
Place 2–3 overlapping zucchini slices flat on a clean surface.
Arrange them so they form one wider ribbon. Slightly overlapping the slices gives you enough surface area to hold the filling and makes the roll-up easier to shape.
Try to keep the zucchini ribbons aligned so the finished roll-up looks neat and even.
6. Add the Ricotta Filling
Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture onto one end of the overlapping zucchini ribbons.
Keep the filling concentrated toward the end rather than spreading it all the way across the zucchini.
This makes it easier to roll the zucchini tightly without the filling spilling out from the sides.
7. Roll the Zucchini
Starting from the end with the filling, carefully roll the zucchini ribbons into a tight cylinder.
Roll slowly and gently while keeping the filling inside.
Once rolled, place the zucchini roll-up seam-side down. This helps hold the shape naturally without requiring toothpicks.
Repeat the process with the remaining zucchini slices and ricotta mixture.
8. Arrange the Roll-Ups
Arrange the finished zucchini roll-ups seam-side down on a serving plate.
Place them close enough together to look attractive but leave enough room around each one for the roasted tomatoes and garnishes.
At this stage, the creamy filling should be visible slightly at the ends of the zucchini rolls.
9. Add the Roasted Tomatoes
Scatter the warm roasted cherry or grape tomatoes around and over the zucchini roll-ups.
Their soft texture and slightly blistered skin provide a beautiful contrast to the tender zucchini and creamy ricotta filling.
10. Garnish and Finish
Top the roll-ups with fresh microgreens or basil leaves.
Drizzle with a little extra olive oil.
Finally, drizzle 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or pesto over the roll-ups and tomatoes.
Serve immediately and enjoy.
Helpful Tips
Slice the Zucchini Thinly
Thin zucchini ribbons are easier to grill and roll. Try to keep the slices consistent so they cook evenly.
Don’t Overcook the Zucchini
The zucchini only needs 1–2 minutes per side. Overcooking can make the ribbons too soft and difficult to roll.
Let the Zucchini Cool Slightly
Allowing the grilled zucchini to cool briefly makes it easier to handle and reduces the chance of the ricotta filling becoming too warm during assembly.
Don’t Overfill
The recipe calls for approximately 2 tablespoons of filling per roll-up. Avoid adding too much because excess filling can squeeze out as you roll.
Use Overlapping Ribbons
Overlapping 2–3 zucchini slices creates a wider surface and helps produce a sturdy, attractive cylinder.
Roll Gently but Firmly
Roll the zucchini tightly enough to hold the filling, but don’t squeeze too hard. A gentle, controlled roll gives the best shape.
Keep the Seam Down
Placing each roll-up seam-side down helps keep it closed naturally while serving.
Use the Same Pan
Cooking the tomatoes in the same pan used for the zucchini allows you to build flavor without needing another cooking vessel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?
Yes. The recipe gives you the option of using crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese. Both provide a creamy, tangy element that complements the ricotta.
What herbs work best in the filling?
The recipe allows fresh spinach or herbs such as basil, parsley, or mint. Each gives the filling a slightly different fresh flavor.
How do I stop the zucchini from breaking?
Avoid slicing the zucchini too thinly and don’t overcook it. The goal is for the ribbons to become pliable while still retaining enough structure to roll.
Why are the zucchini slices overlapped?
Using 2–3 overlapping slices creates a wider ribbon, making it easier to add the filling and form a complete roll-up.
Can I use either cherry or grape tomatoes?
Yes. The recipe specifically allows cherry or grape tomatoes. Cook them until they are soft and slightly blistered.
Why is lemon zest added to the filling?
Lemon zest adds fresh citrus aroma and brightness without making the filling watery. It balances the richness of the ricotta and cheese.
Do I need toothpicks to hold the roll-ups together?
No. Placing the roll-ups seam-side down helps keep them closed.
When should I add the balsamic glaze or pesto?
Add it at the end, after arranging the roll-ups and roasted tomatoes. This gives the finished dish a fresh drizzle and attractive presentation.
Serving Suggestions
These zucchini roll-ups make an excellent light lunch when served on their own or with a simple fresh salad.
They are also ideal as an appetizer. Arrange several roll-ups on a platter with the roasted tomatoes scattered around them for an attractive presentation.
As a side dish, they pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, roasted dishes, or other Mediterranean-inspired foods.
For entertaining, prepare individual roll-ups and arrange them neatly on a large serving plate. Finish with microgreens or fresh basil and a final drizzle of balsamic glaze or pesto.
Nutrition Benefits
Zucchini
Zucchini is a light vegetable that provides fiber, vitamins, minerals, and plenty of water. Grilling it keeps the preparation simple while creating a delicious roasted flavor.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta provides protein and calcium while giving the filling its smooth, creamy consistency.
Feta or Goat Cheese
Feta or goat cheese adds protein and calcium along with a distinctive tangy flavor that balances the mild zucchini.
Tomatoes
Cherry and grape tomatoes provide natural sweetness, vibrant color, and beneficial plant compounds. Their juicy texture also adds freshness to the dish.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a traditional Mediterranean ingredient and provides mostly unsaturated fats. It also helps the zucchini develop beautiful grill marks.
Fresh Herbs
Basil, parsley, mint, spinach, microgreens, and other fresh greens add flavor and freshness while contributing additional plant-based nutrients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and colorful
- Creamy and flavorful
- Easy to assemble
- Simple ingredients
- Mediterranean-inspired
- Great for entertaining
- Perfect as an appetizer or side
- Light enough for lunch
- Beautiful presentation
- No complicated cooking technique required
