Zucchini Roll-Ups with Mushroom Ricotta Filling

Introduction: Indulge in the exquisite world of culinary sophistication with our Zucchini Roll-Ups – a dish that seamlessly merges the wholesome goodness of zucchini with the rich flavors of a delectable mushroom ricotta filling. Perfect for a gourmet evening or as a stunning addition to your family meals, these roll-ups are a celebration of textures and tastes. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey to create a masterpiece that elevates the everyday into the extraordinary.

Ingredients Unveiled: Zucchini Elegance:

  1. 4 Large Zucchini (Thinly Sliced Lengthwise): Delicate zucchini strips serve as the elegant vessels for our flavorful filling.

Oil Symphony:

  1. 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil (1 for brushing + 1 for sautéing): A duet of olive oil, enhancing both the zucchini’s tenderness and the mushroom sauce’s richness.

Savory Medley:

  1. 1 Small Sweet Yellow Onion (Finely Diced): Infusing a subtle sweetness to complement the savory notes.
  2. 2 Fresh Garlic Cloves (Minced): Elevating the dish with aromatic depth.
  3. 8 oz Fresh Mushrooms (Chopped Well): A hearty addition that adds a delightful earthiness.
  4. 1 Teaspoon Dry Italian Seasoning: A harmonious blend of herbs, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Saucy Entrée:

  1. 16 Ounces High-Quality Marinara Sauce: A luscious foundation that ties the components together.
  2. Sea Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper (to Taste): Seasoning to perfection.

Ricotta Ensemble:

  1. 1/3 Cup Organic Ricotta: A luxurious filling that introduces creamy texture.
  2. 1 Free Range Egg: Binding the ricotta ensemble with a golden richness.
  3. 1/4 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: A punch of umami to elevate the filling.
  4. Handful of Fresh Parsley (Finely Chopped): Adding a burst of freshness to the ricotta blend.

Cheesy Finale:

  1. 1/2 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A melty crown that completes the dish.

Crafting Culinary Masterpiece:

  1. Zucchini Canvas: Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Lay out zucchini strips, season, and lightly brush with olive oil. Bake until tender and pliable.
  2. Mushroom Saute Symphony: In a skillet, sauté garlic, then add onions, mushrooms, and Italian seasoning. Stir in marinara sauce, simmer, and let the flavors meld.
  3. Ricotta Ballet: Combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and parsley. Achieve a luscious ricotta blend ready to grace the zucchini strips.
  4. Assembling Artistry: Spread marinara on the dish, lay a zucchini slice, add ricotta mix, and a spoonful of mushroom sauce. Carefully roll and arrange in the baking dish. Pour remaining mushroom marinara sauce on top.
  5. Cheese Crescendo: Sprinkle mozzarella, and bake until hot and bubbly.

Gastronomic Symphony:

  • Texture Harmony: Experience the contrast of tender zucchini, creamy ricotta, and the hearty mushroom sauce, creating a gastronomic symphony in every bite.
  • Pairing Perfection: Serve alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness and elevate the dining experience.

Nutritional Harmony: Balancing indulgence with nutritional goodness, these Zucchini Roll-Ups are a source of vitamins, fiber, and pure satisfaction.

Conclusion: Elevate your dining experience with the Zucchini Roll-Ups, a dish that marries simplicity with sophistication. From the delicate zucchini ribbons to the savory mushroom ricotta filling, each element contributes to a culinary masterpiece that transcends the ordinary. Explore the joy of creating this elegant dish, a testament to the artistry that unfolds when quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation converge.

Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups

Ingredients

  • 4 large zucchini thinly sliced lengthwise (I used a mandoline)
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil for brushing + 1 additional Tablespoon for sautéing
  • 1 small sweet yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 8 oz fresh mushrooms, chopped well
  • 1 tsp dry Italian seasoning
  • 16 ounces high quality marinara sauce
  • sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
  • 1/3 cup organic ricotta
  • 1 free range egg
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • a handful or fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees f. and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Lay out the zucchini strips on a large cutting board, lightly sprinkle with sea salt and pepper and very lightly brush with 1 Tablespoon of oil.
  3. Bake strips in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly tender and easy to roll. Allow them to cool until ready to handle.
  4. Meanwhile, add remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  5. Add in the onions, mushrooms, Italian seasonings and cook for 4-5 minutes.
  6. Stir in 3/4 of the marinara sauce and simmer your mushroom sauce for about 4 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
  7. In a medium bowl add ricotta, parmesan cheese, the egg and a tiny pinch of sea salt + pepper, and fresh chopped parsley. Stir well to combine everything.
  8. Use a 9×13″ casserole dish or an ovenproof cast iron skillet and spread remaining marinara sauce on the bottom.
  9. To assemble the zucchini rolls, lay out one zucchini slice on a cutting board. Spread about 2 spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the top, then a spoonful of mushroom sauce mix.
  10. Carefully roll up each zucchini after filling, and place in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining slices.
  11. Pour any remaining mushroom marinara sauce over top.
  12. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and bake for about 15-20 minutes in your preheated oven, or until hot and bubbly.
  13. Serve immediately alongside a nice fresh salad.