Eggplant Involtini: A Delicious and Elegant Way to Cook Eggplant

Contrary to popular belief, eggplants can indeed be delicious! One of the most satisfying ways to cook them is by preparing eggplant involtini. This recipe transforms these often-maligned vegetables into a beautiful, flavorful, and comforting dish that will win over even the most skeptical eggplant critics. Give this recipe a try and prepare to be won over by the rich, smoky flavor and creamy texture of the roasted eggplant.

Ingredients

2 large eggplant 3 tomatoes, halved and seeds removed 1 cup diced onion 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 teaspoons olive oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves or 1 teaspoon dried basil 1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives 2 tablespoons capers, drained (optional) 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional) 2 cups prepared tomato sauce 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine the diced eggplant, tomatoes, onion, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and garlic in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for approximately 25 minutes, or until the vegetables are browned and tender. Transfer the mixture to a food processor and process until you achieve a chunky-smooth consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a grill pan set over medium-high heat. Cook the eggplant slices on the grill pan for 3 minutes per side, or until they are tender. Allow the eggplant to cool. Prepare a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spoon 1/4 cup of the roasted vegetable mixture onto the edge of each grilled eggplant slice. Roll the eggplant slices into logs and place them seam-side-down into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the tomato sauce over the eggplant rolls in the dish. Add the white beans around the rolls in the tomato sauce. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the tomato sauce is hot and bubbly and the beans are heated through. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Alternative Preparation Method

An alternative method involves arranging the eggplant and tomato slices directly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over these vegetables, season with oregano, salt, and pepper, and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the entire mixture. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese begins to brown, approximately 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Whipping up a batch of eggplant involtini is a delightful way to appreciate the nuances of this often-overlooked vegetable. Whether you opt for the rolling method or the direct baking technique, the end result is a dish that is both comforting and impressive. Share this recipe with friends and family and prepare to convert even the staunchest of eggplant cynics into fervent supporters. Enjoy!