Description
These vibrant vegetable rolls feature thinly sliced zucchini and carrots wrapped around a creamy, flavorful filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and sun-dried tomato. A delightful appetizer, side dish, or light meal that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Zucchini (400g / 14oz): Thinly sliced lengthwise into 8 x 0.5cm strips.
- Carrots (200g / 7oz): Thinly sliced lengthwise.
- Ricotta Cheese (200g / 7oz): Full-fat recommended.
- Mozzarella Cheese (100g / 3.5oz): Grated, low-moisture part-skim.
- Parmesan Cheese (30g / 1oz, optional): Grated.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Paste (2 tbsp / 30ml): Intense tomato flavor.
- Lemon Zest (from 1 lemon): Fresh citrus aroma.
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp / 15ml): Balances richness.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp / 30ml, plus extra): For flavor and brushing.
- Smoked Paprika (1 tsp / 5g): Smoky flavor.
- Fresh Basil (1 tbsp / 15g): Finely chopped.
- Garlic (1 clove): Minced.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Pine Nuts (2 tbsp / 30g): Toasted and coarsely chopped.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish.
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Sheet: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice Vegetables: Thinly slice zucchini and carrots lengthwise; brush with olive oil and season.
- Make Cheese Filling: Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, and basil.
- Marble Tomato Paste: Gently fold sun-dried tomato paste into cheese, avoiding complete blending.
- Assemble Rolls: Place filling on vegetable slices and roll tightly; place seam-side down on baking sheet.
- Brush & Bake: Brush rolls with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until tender-crisp and golden.
- Prepare Basil Drizzle: Combine olive oil, basil, and lemon zest.
- Finish & Serve: Drizzle with basil oil, sprinkle with pine nuts, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
For best results, use a mandoline to ensure consistent vegetable slice thickness. Assembling ahead of time is possible; add baking time if cold.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rolls
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg