Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls) are a delightful, healthy twist on traditional lasagna. These roll ups not only satisfy your cravings for comfort food but also provide a light, nutritious meal perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep. With their creamy filling and cheesy goodness, they’re sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: Using zucchini instead of pasta makes this dish lower in carbs and calories while still delivering great flavor.
- Quick to Prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful Ingredients: A rich blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses creates a creamy filling that complements the roasted zucchini beautifully.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy these roll ups as a main course or serve them as an appetizer at parties. They fit perfectly into any meal plan.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls), gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mandoline slicer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- 8×8 square glass casserole dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Mandoline slicer: Ensures evenly sliced zucchini, making rolling easier and ensuring even cooking.
- Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting your zucchini slices without sticking and allows for even heat distribution.
- Glass casserole dish: Ideal for baking and serving your roll ups; it retains heat well and looks great on the table.
Ingredients
My easy zucchini lasagna roll ups have a creamy parmesan ricotta filling, tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella. A light, healthy summer meal!
For the Roll Ups
- 3 medium Zucchini (~1 1/2 lb)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/4 tsp Sea salt
- 1/8 tsp Black pepper
- 6 oz Whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large Egg
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
For the Sauce
- 10 oz Tomato sauce (no sugar added)
- 1/2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 clove Garlic (finely minced)
- Sea salt (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Slice the Zucchini
Cut off the ends of the zucchini. Use a mandoline to slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin sheets, about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 3: Roast the Zucchini Slices
Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
Roast zucchini slices in the oven for 15-20 minutes until they are soft and mostly dry.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together tomato sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Adjust salt to taste if needed. Spread 3/4 cup of this sauce at the bottom of an 8×8 square glass casserole dish. Reserve the remaining sauce for later.
Step 5: Make the Ricotta Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
Step 6: Prepare Zucchini for Rolling
Arrange roasted zucchini slices in a single layer on a large cutting board. Pat dry with paper towels to soak up any extra moisture.
Step 7: Fill and Roll
Spread about one tablespoon of ricotta mixture over each zucchini slice. Sprinkle with one tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese. Roll up tightly and place sideways in the baking dish. Repeat with all zucchini slices.
Step 8: Top with Sauce
Top each zucchini roll with half a tablespoon of reserved sauce followed by half a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes until the cheese on top is melted. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving!
How to Serve Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls)
Zucchini roll ups are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the roll ups.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing provide a nice contrast to the savory zucchini rolls.
Enjoy with Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread: Warm toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for wiping up any leftover sauce from your plate.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, top your garlic bread with mozzarella cheese and bake until bubbly.
Add Some Protein
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breast adds protein and pairs well with the flavors of the zucchini roll ups.
- Shrimp Scampi: Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter bring an elegant touch to your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top of the zucchini roll ups adds freshness and enhances presentation.
How to Perfect Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls)
To achieve the perfect zucchini roll ups, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Zucchini: Opt for firm, fresh zucchini for the best texture. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes.
- Slice Thinly: Aim for slices that are 1/4 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and are easy to roll without breaking.
- Pat Dry Thoroughly: After roasting, pat the zucchini slices dry. This helps avoid excess moisture in the rolls, preventing sogginess.
- Don’t Overfill: Spread just enough ricotta mixture on each slice; overfilling can make rolling difficult and cause them to burst during baking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your ricotta filling before rolling. Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the roll ups to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps them set up nicely for serving.
Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls)
Zucchini roll ups pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil brings color and nutrition to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing touch.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, peppers, and lemon dressing offers a healthy grain option.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus lightly seasoned provides a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the rolls.
- Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with seasonal veggies creates a hearty yet healthy side dish.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables makes for an exciting appetizer or side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making zucchini roll ups can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If you place too many zucchini slices on the baking sheet, they may not roast evenly. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer to allow for proper roasting and texture.
Using Wet Zucchini: Excess moisture can lead to soggy roll ups. Always pat the zucchini dry with paper towels after slicing and before filling to absorb any extra water.
Skipping the Seasoning: Zucchini can be bland if not seasoned properly. Don’t forget to sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides of the slices before roasting for maximum flavor.
Not Preheating the Oven: If you don’t preheat your oven, the cooking time may increase, leading to unevenly cooked rolls. Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature for consistent results.
Filling Too Much: Overfilling your zucchini rolls can make them difficult to roll and cause them to burst during baking. Use just enough filling to cover each slice without excess.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover zucchini roll ups in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- For best taste, consume within this timeframe.
Freezing Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls)
- Place unbaked or baked roll ups in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls)
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place roll ups on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a touch of sauce, and cover until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls)?
Zucchini roll ups are a healthy alternative to traditional lasagna made by rolling thin slices of zucchini with ricotta and mozzarella cheese filling instead of pasta.
Can I customize my Zucchini Roll Ups?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or switch up the cheese types based on your preference for a unique twist.
How do I know when my Zucchini Roll Ups are done?
The roll ups are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. This usually takes about 10 minutes at 400°F (204°C).
Can I make Zucchini Roll Ups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freeze them for later baking. Just follow storage instructions for best results.
Final Thoughts
These zucchini roll ups offer a deliciously light meal packed with flavor while being versatile enough to adapt based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these rolls are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to explore different fillings or sauces—your creativity is welcome!
Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls)
Zucchini Roll Ups (Lasagna Rolls) are a scrumptious and healthy alternative to traditional lasagna, perfect for those seeking a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor. These delightful roll-ups feature thinly sliced zucchini filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, all nestled in a rich tomato sauce. Ideal for summer gatherings or family dinners, they are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main dish. Enjoy the comforting taste of lasagna while keeping it light and nutritious!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 roll ups) 1x
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini
- 6 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 10 oz no-sugar-added tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice zucchini lengthwise into thin sheets using a mandoline; brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast zucchini slices for 15-20 minutes until soft.
- Mix ricotta, Parmesan, egg, and Italian seasoning in a bowl for the filling.
- Spread tomato sauce at the bottom of an 8×8 casserole dish.
- Pat dry roasted zucchini slices; spread ricotta mixture on each slice, sprinkle with mozzarella, then roll tightly.
- Place rolled zucchini in the dish, top with remaining sauce and mozzarella.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 roll ups (150g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg