Zucchini Roll Ups

These Zucchini Roll Ups are a delightful twist on traditional Italian fare. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these roll ups feature thinly sliced zucchini wrapped around a savory filling of Italian sausage, ricotta, spinach, and mushrooms. Topped with gooey mozzarella, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy these flavorful bites as a main dish or a fantastic appetizer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: The combination of Italian sausage, ricotta, and fresh spinach creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Healthy Alternative: Zucchini provides a low-carb base that is nutritious and light.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for any home cook to master.
• Versatile Dish: These roll ups can be served as an entrée or cut into smaller pieces for appetizers at parties.
• Make Ahead: Prepare them in advance and bake just before serving for easy entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To make the preparation smooth, gather your tools and equipment ahead of time. This will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Baking dish (2 1/2 to 3 quart)
• Garlic press
• Mandolin slicer (optional)
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures easy cooking of the sausage and mushrooms without sticking.
• Baking dish: Perfect size for holding all the delicious zucchini roll ups snugly together.
• Garlic press: Saves time in mincing garlic for flavorful dishes.

Ingredients

These zesty zucchini roll ups are filled with a savory combination of Italian sausage, ricotta, spinach and mushrooms, then topped with mozzarella!

• 3 Italian sausage links, casing removed (about 10 to 12 ounces)
• 6 ounces sliced mushrooms (I used shiitake)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 large zucchini, sliced very thinly lengthwise into about 28 strips (roughly 2 to 3 mm on a mandolin, or 1/8 inch thick slices)
• 1 cup grated, whole milk mozzarella
• Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley, for garnish
• Olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• (1) 28 ounce can organic, crushed tomatoes (I use San Marzano)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Zucchini Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Begin by gathering and prepping all of your tomato sauce ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Place a small saucepan over medium heat. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add in the garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and a couple of pinches of salt and pepper. Sauté this mixture for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes along with additional salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to gently simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare Zucchini Roll Ups Ingredients

Gather all ingredients needed for your zucchini roll ups as listed above.

Step 5: Cook Sausage & Mushrooms

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Crumble in the sausage and cook for a few minutes until nearly cooked through.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms

Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet. If necessary, drizzle in more oil if the pan appears dry. Sauté until mushrooms are tender—about 4 to 5 minutes—then add garlic until fragrant. Transfer this mixture to a paper towel-lined dish to cool.

Step 7: Combine Filling Ingredients

Once cooled, transfer the sausage/mushroom mixture into a larger bowl. Add ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, baby spinach, Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper. Gently fold together until well combined.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread tomato sauce evenly across the bottom of your baking dish.

Step 9: Salt Zucchini Strips

Lay out zucchini strips in front of you and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let sit for about 10 to 15 minutes; this helps draw out excess moisture from the zucchini.

Step 10: Fill Zucchini Strips

Dollop roughly heaping tablespoon portions of filling onto each zucchini strip’s bottom edge. Roll up tightly around the filling and place each zucchini roll up into the baking dish seam side down.

Step 11: Repeat Until Done

Continue rolling until all zucchini strips are filled and arranged snugly in the baking dish.

Step 12: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle grated mozzarella over all assembled zucchini roll ups before baking uncovered for approximately 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Step 13: Garnish & Serve

Finish by sprinkling fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley on top before serving hot!

How to Serve Zucchini Roll Ups

Zucchini roll ups are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these savory treats can be paired with several accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast beautifully with the soft zucchini.

Drizzle with Extra Sauce

• Tomato Sauce: Serve additional tomato sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over the roll ups for added richness.
• Pesto Sauce: A vibrant basil pesto adds a fragrant kick that’s perfect for enhancing the Italian flavors.

Complement with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread provides a crunchy texture and is great for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft focaccia bread pairs wonderfully and can be dipped in olive oil or balsamic vinegar.

How to Perfect Zucchini Roll Ups

Creating the perfect zucchini roll ups ensures they are flavorful and visually appealing. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season each component well, from the filling to the zucchini itself, to enhance overall flavor.
• Thin slices: Use a mandolin to cut zucchini into thin strips. This makes rolling easier and helps them cook evenly.
• Moisture control: Salt the zucchini before rolling to draw out excess moisture. This prevents sogginess during baking.
• Cheese balance: Mix different cheeses in your filling for depth—try blending ricotta with mozzarella or goat cheese for added creaminess.
• Tight rolls: Roll each zucchini strip tightly around the filling for a better shape and presentation while baking.
• Rest before serving: Allow the roll ups to cool slightly after baking; this helps them hold their shape when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Roll Ups

Zucchini roll ups are versatile enough to be enjoyed with various sides. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish beautifully:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that balances lighter flavors.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon elevates the meal’s freshness.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to rich zucchini roll ups.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious addition packed with protein.
5. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal grilled veggies adds smokiness and color to your plate.
6. Risotto: Creamy risotto pairs well by adding comfort; try mushroom or lemon-flavored varieties for extra zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making zucchini roll ups, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Salting Step: Failing to salt the zucchini strips can lead to watery roll ups. Always sprinkle salt on the zucchini and let it sit to draw out excess moisture.
• Overstuffing the Rolls: It might be tempting to add more filling, but overstuffing can cause the rolls to burst during baking. Stick to a heaping tablespoon of filling per strip.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not monitoring the cooking time can result in undercooked or burnt roll ups. Keep an eye on them, especially when baking at high temperatures.
• Using Thick Zucchini Slices: If your zucchini slices are too thick, they won’t roll properly and may not cook evenly. Aim for slices about 2-3 mm thick for optimal results.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Starting with a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your oven before placing the zucchini roll ups inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Zucchini Roll Ups

• Place the cooled roll ups in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Zucchini Roll Ups

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual roll ups on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make zucchini roll ups ahead of time?

You can prepare zucchini roll ups a day in advance. Assemble them as directed, cover, and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What variations can I try with zucchini roll ups?

Feel free to swap out ingredients! You could use ground turkey instead of Italian sausage or add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent my zucchini from getting soggy?

Salting the zucchini strips before rolling helps draw out moisture. Also, avoid overcrowding them in your baking dish.

Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?

Yes! Ensure all ingredients, especially sausage and sauces, are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy delicious gluten-free zucchini roll ups!

Can I use other cheeses in my zucchini roll ups?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

These zesty zucchini roll ups are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them based on your tastes or what you have available. Whether it’s swapping proteins or adding new veggies, there’s plenty of room to get creative. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the delightful flavors!