Zucchini Rollatini
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2 (12-ounce) zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 18 thin (1/8-inch) planks
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided
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1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese, patted dry
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1 large egg, lightly beaten
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3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, plus extra for garnish
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2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
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2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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2 cloves garlic, grated
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1 1/2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese, divided
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1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
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Cooking spray
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2 cups jarred marinara sauce, divided
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Position oven racks in the upper and lower thirds. -
Prepare the Zucchini
Toss the zucchini slices with olive oil and 2 teaspoons of salt. Arrange them in a single layer on two large rimmed baking sheets.
Bake for about 10 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until the zucchini is tender. -
Cool and Adjust Temperature
Remove the zucchini from the oven and let cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). -
Make the Ricotta Filling
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, basil, oregano, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and the remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Mix until well combined. -
Assemble the Rollatini
Lightly coat a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom.
Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels. Spoon about 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of the ricotta mixture onto one end of each zucchini slice. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining zucchini and filling. -
Add Sauce and Cheese
Spoon the remaining 1 cup marinara sauce over the center of the rolls, leaving the ends slightly exposed. Sprinkle evenly with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan. -
Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbling, lightly browned, and the zucchini is very tender. -
Rest and Serve
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
Tips:
Here are some helpful tips to make your Zucchini Rollatini perfect every time:
1. Slice Evenly
Use a mandoline slicer if possible to get thin, even 1/8-inch slices. Even thickness helps the zucchini cook uniformly and roll easily.
2. Avoid Watery Rollatini
After baking the zucchini slices, gently pat them dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and prevents a watery dish.
3. Salt Smartly
Do not oversalt. Zucchini releases water naturally, and the cheeses and marinara already contain salt.
4. Thicker Ricotta Filling
If your ricotta feels watery, strain it in a cheesecloth for 15–20 minutes before mixing. A thicker filling makes rolling easier and keeps the shape intact.
5. Don’t Overfill
Use about 1 tablespoon of filling per slice. Overfilling can cause the rolls to open while baking.
6. Add Extra Flavor
You can mix spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or cooked ground chicken into the ricotta mixture for variation.
7. Crispier Top
For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
8. Let It Rest
Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

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