A delicious recipe for pesto mozzarella stuffed eggplant rolls that are cheesy, herby, and packed with Mediterranean flavors.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into thick strips
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup basil pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1/4 cup olive oil mixed with pesto
Fresh basil ribbons for garnish
Extra parmesan cheese for garnish
Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the eggplant: Slice eggplants lengthwise into thin strips and brush both sides with olive oil. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Roast until flexible: Arrange eggplant slices on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until soft and easy to roll.
Make the pesto mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together basil pesto, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice until rich and fragrant.
Assemble the rolls: Place mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves onto each eggplant slice. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
Add sauce & bake: Spoon marinara sauce around the rolls and drizzle generously with the pesto mixture. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top and bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Garnish & serve: Finish with fresh basil ribbons, extra parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Serve warm with crusty bread or pasta.
Notes
Use low-moisture mozzarella for less excess liquid.
Swap regular pesto for spinach pesto for extra greens.
Add grilled chicken for more protein.
Eggplant is naturally low-carb and rich in antioxidants.