continued on next pagePreparation:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the eggplants: Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. Sprinkle salt on both sides of the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture and bitterness. After 15 minutes, rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Grill or roast the eggplant slices: Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil on both sides. You can either grill them on a barbecue or grill pan for a few minutes on each side until they become tender and have grill marks, or you can roast them in the oven on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes until they are soft and slightly golden.
4. Assemble the rolls: Take an eggplant slice and place a slice of mozzarella cheese and a slice of ham or prosciutto on top. Roll it up tightly and place it in a baking dish, seam side down. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices and fillings.
5. Pour marinara sauce and sprinkle cheese: Pour the marinara sauce over the eggplant rolls in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil on top.
6. Bake the rolls: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and enjoy: Remove the foil from the baking dish and serve the eggplant rolls hot. They can be served as a delicious main course with a side of salad or crusty bread.
These eggplant rolls are a quick and tasty option for a satisfying meal. The combination of eggplant, melted cheese, and savory ham or prosciutto creates a flavorful dish. Buon appetito!
