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

Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are a delightful and fresh dish perfect for any gathering. These rollups are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor, making them ideal for appetizers, side dishes, or even a light meal. The combination of smoky grilled zucchini, creamy lemon-basil ricotta, and sweet slow-roasted tomatoes creates a harmonious balance that is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be made quickly.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of lemon and basil in the ricotta adds brightness to each bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal for any occasion.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with veggies and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious option.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful layers make this dish a showstopper at any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides that delicious charred flavor while cooking the zucchini.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ricotta with fresh herbs for maximum flavor.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting tomatoes evenly in the oven.
• Knife: Necessary for slicing the zucchini into perfect strips.

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 Tomatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Slice the tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt over them.
4. Roast in the oven for about 2 hours or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Make the Lemon-Basil Ricotta

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with fresh basil, lemon juice, and zest.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Season with salt to taste.

Step 3: Grill the Zucchini

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Brush zucchini strips lightly with olive oil and season with salt.
3. Grill each strip for about 2–3 minutes on each side until tender and grill marks appear.

Step 4: Assemble the Rollups

1. Take one grilled zucchini strip and place a spoonful of lemon-basil ricotta on one end.
2. Carefully roll it up from that end to form a neat rollup.
3. Repeat this process until all zucchini strips are filled and rolled.

Step 5: Serve

1. Arrange the rollups on a platter alongside slow-roasted tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired and enjoy!

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

Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are a delightful dish perfect for sharing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them warm on a platter for guests to enjoy as a light starter.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and presentation.

With a Salad

• Pair the rollups with a fresh arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Incorporate the rollups into a charcuterie board alongside olives and nuts for an elegant touch.
• Mix various cheeses, including plant-based options, to complement the flavors.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve the rollups on a bed of quinoa or couscous for a filling yet healthy lunch option.
• Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.

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

Achieving the ideal Grilled Zucchini Rollups requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure perfect results every time.

• Choose fresh zucchini: Select firm zucchinis without soft spots for the best texture.
• Slice evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness, ensuring even grilling.
• Preheat the grill: A hot grill will create beautiful char marks and prevent sticking.
• Don’t overfill: Use just enough ricotta mixture in each rollup to avoid spilling when grilling.
• Brush with oil: Lightly brushing the zucchini strips with olive oil enhances flavor and helps prevent sticking.
• Serve immediately: These rollups taste best fresh off the grill, so serve them right away!

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

Complement your Grilled Zucchini Rollups with delicious side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great pairings:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds delightful crunch and flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings out natural sweetness.
3. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with herbs and lemon brightens the meal.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes create a classic pairing that balances textures.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides an earthy contrast to the rollups.
6. Lentil Soup: A hearty lentil soup offers protein and complements the dish beautifully.
7. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf with herbs is light yet satisfying alongside this elegant dish.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add comfort and crunch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Salting Step: Not salting zucchini before grilling can lead to watery rollups. Salt the strips and let them sit for a few minutes to extract excess moisture.
• Using Thick Zucchini Slices: Thick slices will not roll properly and can ruin the texture. Aim for thin, even strips for the best results.
• Overcooking the Tomatoes: Slow roasted tomatoes should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect balance.
• Ignoring Flavor Balance: Neglecting to taste your lemon-basil ricotta can result in bland rollups. Adjust seasoning as needed for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Rushing the Grilling Process: Grilling too quickly can cause zucchini to char without cooking through. Take your time for even cooking and a smoky flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep well for up to 3 days.

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

• Wrap each rollup tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes?
Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are delicious appetizers made with thinly sliced grilled zucchini filled with a creamy lemon-basil ricotta cheese mixture and topped with slow-roasted tomatoes.

Can I customize the filling in Grilled Zucchini Rollups?
Yes! You can add ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs to personalize your filling while keeping it fresh and flavorful.

How do I prevent zucchini from becoming soggy when grilling?
Salting the zucchini slices before grilling helps draw out moisture and prevents sogginess, ensuring your rollups have a great texture.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Zucchini Rollups?
These rollups are best served warm or at room temperature as an appetizer or side dish. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor!

Are there any alternatives to ricotta cheese?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cream cheese or blended silken tofu mixed with herbs as a tasty alternative to ricotta cheese.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes offer a fresh, smoky flavor that makes them perfect for any occasion. Their elegant presentation and versatility allow you to customize the filling according to your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful blend of textures and tastes!