These Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups are a fun and tasty snack! You take fresh zucchini slices, fill them with creamy cheese, and roll them up tight. Yum!
I love how they look like little veggie burritos! 🥒💚 They’re super easy to make and perfect for a quick bite. Plus, they make a great side dish or appetizer at parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this dish. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works as well. For a fun twist, try using eggplant slices for a different flavor!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a lovely melt, while ricotta adds creaminess. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, use cashew cheese or a dairy-free ricotta. Nutritional yeast mixed with plant-based milk can mimic a cheesy flavor too!
Ham or Prosciutto: This adds a nice salty flavor, but feel free to skip it for a vegetarian version. You could also use sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for a hint of extra flavor while keeping it plant-based.
Basil: Fresh basil adds brightness to the rolls. If you don’t have fresh, dried basil will also work. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or oregano can stand in nicely!
How Do I Get the Zucchini Slices Just Right?
Getting thin, even slices is crucial for rolling and baking. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a mandoline for consistent thickness, about 1/8 inch. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife will work; just take your time.
- Sprinkling salt on the zucchini and letting them rest helps draw moisture out, making them more manageable for rolling.
- Pat them dry with a towel to remove excess moisture before spreading the cheese mixture.
This way, you’ll achieve perfect rolls that hold their shape and taste amazing! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Zucchini and Cheese Roll-Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll-Ups:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise (using a mandoline or a vegetable peeler)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced ham or prosciutto (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of bake time, so you can enjoy your tasty zucchini roll-ups in about 30-35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your roll-ups are ready to go in. Lightly grease a muffin tin or a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Lay the thinly sliced zucchini on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out the excess moisture. Once done, pat dry with the towel to keep the rolls from getting soggy.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Assemble the Roll-Ups:
If you’re adding ham or prosciutto for extra flavor, place a slice on each zucchini strip. Then, spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture evenly over each zucchini slice.
5. Roll Them Up:
Carefully roll up each zucchini strip from one end to form a tight roll. Place the rolls seam side down in your prepared muffin tin or snugly in a baking dish to help them keep their shape while baking.
6. Bake the Roll-Ups:
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top of the rolls, and feel free to add extra cheese on top if you like it extra cheesy! Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a lovely golden color.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take them out and let cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy warm as a delightful appetizer or side dish!
These cheesy, flavorful zucchini roll-ups are sure to impress everyone at the table! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can mix it up with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change, so choose according to your preference!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with vegan cream cheese, nutritional yeast, and dairy-free mozzarella. You can also use cashew cheese for a rich, creamy texture!
Can I Prep These Roll-Ups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as they may need a little longer if they are cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Roll-Ups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or in the microwave for a quick option!
