Zucchini Roll-Ups Stuffed with Spinach & Ricotta in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Roll-Ups:
– 2 large zucchinis
– 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for brushing
For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Lay the strips on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle lightly with salt. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with another towel.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
4. On a clean surface, take a zucchini strip and place a tablespoon of the spinach and ricotta mixture at one end. Roll the zucchini tightly around the filling and secure with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat with the remaining strips and filling.
5. For the creamy tomato sauce, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, dried basil, and oregano to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the creamy tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the zucchini roll-ups seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the roll-ups, ensuring they are well coated.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or un
