Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these rollups offer a fresh and smoky flavor profile that everyone will love. The creamy lemon-basil ricotta paired with slow-roasted tomatoes creates a unique blend that elevates this dish to an elegant level. Enjoy these rollups as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious rollups ready in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The zesty lemon-basil ricotta complements the subtle smokiness of grilled zucchini perfectly.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as appetizers, sides for your favorite proteins, or even as a light lunch option.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and wholesome flavors, these rollups are a nutritious choice.
• Impressive Presentation: Their elegant appearance makes them perfect for special occasions or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: This tool is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and imparting smoky flavor.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the zucchini, making preparation easier.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides stability while you slice your ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: This allows you to easily combine the ricotta and herbs for the filling.

Ingredients

For the Rollups:

• 2 large zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
• Olive oil, for brushing
• Salt, to taste

How to Make Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

• Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly.
• Slice each zucchini lengthwise into thin strips using a sharp knife. Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness for even grilling.

Step 2: Season the Zucchini

• Brush both sides of the zucchini strips lightly with olive oil.
• Sprinkle salt on both sides to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Zucchini

• Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Place the seasoned zucchini strips on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they become tender and have nice grill marks.

Step 4: Make the Lemon-Basil Ricotta Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with chopped fresh basil and lemon zest.
• Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Rollups

• Once grilled, take each zucchini strip and place a spoonful of lemon-basil ricotta at one end.
• Carefully roll up each zucchini strip around the filling and secure with a toothpick if necessary.

Step 6: Serve with Slow Roasted Tomatoes

• Pair your zucchini rollups with slow-roasted tomatoes on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
• Drizzle with additional olive oil before serving if desired.

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Grilled Zucchini Rollups are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. These elegant rolls, filled with creamy lemon-basil ricotta and complemented by slow-roasted tomatoes, make for an impressive appetizer or main course.

Appetizer Style

• Dipping Sauce: Pair the rollups with a zesty balsamic reduction for added flavor.
• Charcuterie Board: Include them on a charcuterie board alongside olives, nuts, and cheeses.

Main Course

• Over Quinoa Salad: Serve the rollups over a bed of quinoa salad for a nutritious meal.
• With Grilled Chicken: They complement grilled chicken beautifully, adding a fresh element to the plate.

Party Platter

• Finger Food: Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
• Garnished with Herbs: Top with fresh basil or parsley for an elegant presentation.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Perfecting your grilled zucchini rollups is easy with a few tips. Here are some helpful hints to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh zucchinis and herbs for the best flavor.
• Slice Evenly: Ensure your zucchini slices are uniform to promote even grilling.
• Preheat the Grill: A hot grill will give you those perfect grill marks and prevent sticking.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the ricotta mixture.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Pairing side dishes with your grilled zucchini rollups can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their fresh flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and pairs well with the creamy filling.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette balances the richness of the rollups.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out earthy flavors that match perfectly.
4. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad brings texture and compliments the zucchini well.
5. Hummus and Pita Chips: This combo offers a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
6. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky taste of asparagus enhances the overall grilled theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Zucchini: Zucchini can become mushy if grilled for too long. Aim for a tender texture while maintaining some firmness.
• Skipping the Salt: Salt enhances the flavor of your rollups. Don’t forget to season the zucchini strips before grilling for the best taste.
• Not Preheating the Grill: A hot grill ensures nice grill marks and prevents sticking. Always preheat your grill before adding the zucchini.
• Using Too Much Filling: Overstuffing your rollups can make them difficult to roll and eat. Use just enough filling to keep them intact without bursting.
• Neglecting to Brush with Oil: Brushing with olive oil helps prevent sticking and adds flavor. Make sure each zucchini slice is lightly coated before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

• Wrap each rollup individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rollups on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place rollups on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add rollups and cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes.

Can I use other vegetables in my rollups?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with eggplant or bell peppers alongside zucchini for added flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes?

Pair these rollups with a light salad or whole grain bread for a complete meal.

How do I make my own lemon-basil ricotta?

To make lemon-basil ricotta, mix ricotta cheese with fresh basil, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Adjust flavors as desired!

Can I prepare Grilled Zucchini Rollups ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble them ahead of time, store in the fridge, and grill when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different fillings or sauces to suit your taste. This dish is perfect for gatherings or as a light meal option. Enjoy experimenting!