These aubergine rolls are a delicious appetizer that you should prepare in generous quantities: the contrast between the delicate crispness of their exterior and the creaminess of the filling is real pleasure! These rolls are perfect for a buffet or for a summer lunch with friends, and you can also choose to make them more or less tangy by either using a normal or a smoked ‘scamorza’ cheese, the latter with a more intense flavour. However, the outcome will inevitably be fabulous and these rolls will disappear much faster than the time you took to prepare them!
* approximate values per serving
Cut the aubergine into slices and let them drain sprinkled with salt for a half hour. Then dry them with a paper towel, dust them in flour and fry. Make the rolls by laying a piece of ‘scamorza’ cheese and a piece of ham on each slice. Roll them up. Fry the rolls for 10 minutes so as to melt the cheese. Alternatively you can cook the rolls in the oven for 10 minutes.
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Let the aubergines rest for a while sprinkled with salt
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Dust the aubergine slices with flour
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Fry the aubergine slices
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Put half a slice of scamorza cheese on every slice of aubergine
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Add a little slice of ham
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Roll the aubergine slices up, if necessary holding them in place with a toothpick
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Heat through in a pan with a lid until the cheese has melted; alternatively cook for ten minutes in the oven
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Serve the rolls
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One of the tastiest variations of eggplant rolls is the one that includes scamorza and cooked ham. This preparation maintains the softness of the eggplants, while the cheese melts perfectly, creating a creamy and flavorful filling. To make them, simply follow the basic recipe, but pay particular attention to the quality of the ingredients: a smoked scamorza can add an extra touch of flavor. After preparing the eggplants, they can be fried or baked for a lighter version. The rolls can be served as an appetizer, but also as a main course. This variation is perfect for those who love bold flavors and want to impress their guests with a rich and hearty recipe.
The Neapolitan variation of eggplant rolls is a true classic of Campanian cuisine. Here, in addition to scamorza and cooked ham, ingredients such as fresh tomato and basil are added, which give a touch of freshness to the dish. The preparation involves stuffing the eggplants with a light tomato sauce, which cooks together with the rolls in the oven, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly. This version is ideal for those looking for a dish rich in tradition and Mediterranean flavors. Served with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, the Neapolitan rolls become a unique dish to enjoy with family, perfect for Sunday dinners.
For those who want a lighter variation of eggplant rolls, it is possible to prepare them without frying. In this light version, the eggplants are grilled instead of fried, thus maintaining all their nutritional properties and reducing the caloric content of the dish. After slicing the eggplants and grilling them, they can be stuffed with scamorza and cooked ham, just like in the traditional recipe. The rolls can be baked for about 15 minutes, until the cheese has melted. This preparation is perfect for those following a balanced diet but who do not want to give up the taste and goodness of a dish of eggplants.
Eggplants are a highly appreciated vegetable for their nutritional properties. They are low in calories, contain fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them an ideal food for a healthy diet. On average, 100 grams of eggplants provide about 25 calories, while eggplant rolls, depending on the filling and cooking method, can vary between 150 and 250 calories per serving. Thanks to their fiber content, eggplants promote digestion and can help keep cholesterol levels in check. Additionally, scamorza and cooked ham provide protein and calcium, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.
Yes, eggplant rolls can be successfully frozen. It is advisable to freeze them after cooking, to best preserve the flavors and texture. Before freezing, ensure they are completely cooled and then store them in airtight containers or food bags, taking care to remove excess air. In this way, the rolls will keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you want to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours and then reheat them in the oven or in a pan, until they are heated through. This solution is ideal for having a ready-to-use dish for quick lunches or dinners.