Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort
I love making vegetable lasagna roll-ups because they combine my favorite flavors in a fun and interesting way. The layers of gooey cheese, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs create a delightful dish that never fails to impress my family and friends. Each individual roll is easy to serve, making it a perfect option for gatherings. Plus, they can be prepared in advance, which is a huge time-saver when hosting. With just a little planning, I can have this delicious dish ready to bake and serve in no time.
When I first decided to try making vegetable lasagna roll-ups, I was surprised by how simple yet impressive they turned out. I experimented with different vegetable fillings such as spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini, finding that the more colorful the veggies, the better the dish looked. The roll-up method not only looks appealing but also ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor.
One tip I discovered is to slightly undercook the lasagna sheets before rolling them up. This ensures they hold together beautifully when baking and prevents them from becoming too mushy. This small adjustment made a significant difference in the texture of the final dish!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A beautiful presentation that impresses guests
- Packed with nutritious vegetables for a healthy meal
- Flexible recipe that can be customized to your taste
Perfecting Your Roll-Ups
When assembling the roll-ups, it's crucial to spread the filling evenly and not overstuff the noodles. A generous tablespoon of filling per noodle usually works well, allowing for a snug roll without spilling out. If you notice your filling is too runny, consider adding a bit more ricotta or Parmesan cheese to thicken it up. Always start rolling from the end closest to you, ensuring that the filling stays secure as you roll forward.
If you find it challenging to roll the noodles or they seem prone to tearing, consider slightly undercooking them during the boil. This approach helps maintain their pliability. Lightly dust the noodles with flour after boiling to prevent sticking as they cool. Also, ensuring they are slightly cooled before handling can make the rolling process easier.
Choosing the Right Marinara
The marinara sauce is pivotal in this dish as it adds moisture and flavor. Opting for a homemade sauce can elevate the roll-ups significantly, allowing you to control the seasoning and texture. If you're short on time, look for high-quality store-bought marinara without added sugars or preservatives. A marinara packed with herbs complements the ricotta and vegetables beautifully.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing garlic and onion before adding your marinara. This addition infuses the sauce with an aromatic base, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish. Make sure the sauce is well distributed; you don’t want any sections of noodles to dry out in the baking process.
Storage and Reheating Tips
The vegetable lasagna roll-ups can be prepared in advance, making them excellent for meal prep. After assembling the roll-ups and pouring the marinara over them, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you're looking for a longer storage solution, successfully freeze them before baking by covering them tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil.
When reheating, ensure your roll-ups are covered to retain moisture. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until heated through. If they're thawed, you can reheat them in about 30-35 minutes. The key is ensuring the cheese becomes bubbly without overcooking the pasta, maintaining a tender texture.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful filling for your lasagna rolls.
For the Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Make sure to have all the ingredients prepared before you start assembling the rolls to make the process smoother.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect vegetable lasagna roll-ups.
Prepare the Noodles
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to avoid sticking.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a thin layer of the filling on each noodle, then roll it up carefully. Place the rolls seam side down in a greased baking dish.
Add Marinara Sauce
Pour marinara sauce over the assembled roll-ups, making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the roll-ups for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna roll-ups rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
Pro Tips
- For a deeper flavor, try adding some garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the filling mixture. You can also swap the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!
Vegetable Variations
The beauty of these roll-ups lies in their flexibility; you can easily swap out vegetables based on season or preference. For instance, try adding roasted bell peppers or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist. Broccoli florets or kale can offer additional nutrients and flavor, but be sure to steam them lightly beforehand to ensure they’re tender enough to enjoy in the rolls.
Feel free to get creative with the cheeses as well! Adding feta or goat cheese can provide a tangy flavor that complements the earthy vegetables. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to suit your palate. Just remember to balance the flavors so that one ingredient does not overpower the others.
Serving Suggestions
These vegetable lasagna roll-ups can be served as a stand-alone dish, but they pair wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. The freshness of a salad can help cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a well-rounded meal. For a more robust dinner, consider serving the roll-ups alongside garlic bread or a light soup.
To elevate your presentation, garnish the roll-ups with fresh basil or parsley after baking. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top right before serving can further enrich the dish. You can also serve them with a drizzle of balsamic reduction to enhance both flavor and plating, making your dish one that your guests will remember.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're coming straight from the fridge.
→ What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a similar texture, or try a blend of cream cheese and yogurt for a different flavor.
→ Can I freeze the leftover roll-ups?
Absolutely! Just wrap the baked roll-ups in plastic wrap and foil, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when you're ready to enjoy them again.
→ What else can I add to the filling?
Feel free to get creative! You can add cooked lentils, artichokes, or even different herbs to change the flavor profile of the filling.
Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
I love making vegetable lasagna roll-ups because they combine my favorite flavors in a fun and interesting way. The layers of gooey cheese, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs create a delightful dish that never fails to impress my family and friends. Each individual roll is easy to serve, making it a perfect option for gatherings. Plus, they can be prepared in advance, which is a huge time-saver when hosting. With just a little planning, I can have this delicious dish ready to bake and serve in no time.
Created by: Imogen Price
Recipe Type: Homestyle Comfort
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
How-To Steps
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to avoid sticking.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Spread a thin layer of the filling on each noodle, then roll it up carefully. Place the rolls seam side down in a greased baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce over the assembled roll-ups, making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the roll-ups for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips
- For a deeper flavor, try adding some garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the filling mixture. You can also swap the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 18g