As the sun begins to warm the air and the garden bursts with life, I find myself dreaming of lighter, more vibrant meals. That’s when I whipped up these Grilled Zucchini Rollups stuffed with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow Roasted Tomatoes. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the smoky aroma that fills the kitchen as the zucchini grills, transforming into a tender canvas for the creamy filling.
Imagine hosting a summer gathering where dishes are not just enjoyed but admired. These delightful rollups are perfect for that—fresh, gluten-free, and utterly crowd-pleasing! With each bite, you’ll experience the harmonious blend of zesty lemon, fragrant basil, and the rich, sweet flavor of slow-roasted tomatoes.
Even better? They’re easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for those of us looking to escape the monotony of fast food. I often toss in a touch of mint for a refreshing twist; it’s an unexpected surprise that elevates the dish even more. Whether served as a light appetizer or a fun finger food at a picnic, these rollups are destined to impress. So, let’s dive right in!
Why are Grilled Zucchini Rollups a must-try?
Flavor Fusion: The creamy lemon-basil ricotta paired with slow roasted tomatoes creates a rich and refreshing taste that dances on your palate.
Nutrient-Packed: These gluten-free, vegetarian rollups are guilt-free, providing a light yet satisfying treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they look stunning on any platter, inviting everyone to dig in.
Versatile Option: Customize with different herbs or cheeses to fit your taste, making it adaptable for any meal.
Quick Prep: With minimal ingredients and easy steps, they’re the perfect solution for busy days or impromptu get-togethers!
Grilled Zucchini Rollups Ingredients
• These delicious rollups need just a handful of fresh ingredients!
For the Rollups
- Zucchini – Thinly sliced lengthwise, it becomes flexible and easy to roll after grilling.
- Oil – Lightly brushing the zucchini allows for even grilling and prevents sticking.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning to enhance the flavors of your rollups.
For the Filling
- Ricotta – A creamy filling that brings richness and texture to every bite.
- Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan) – Adds a nutty flavor; feel free to substitute with any hard, aged cheese.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens the ricotta mix with a refreshing kick.
- Basil – Offers an aromatic touch; consider replacing with mint for an exciting twist!
For the Topping
- Slow Roasted Tomatoes – Adds a delightful sweetness and tang; you can swap them with sun-dried tomatoes for convenience.
- Basil Leaves – Fresh leaves elevate the presentation and flavor while serving.
How to Make Grilled Zucchini Rollups
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Preheat the grill: Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the zucchini will grill perfectly, giving it those lovely char marks.
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Prep the zucchini: Lightly brush each zucchini slice with oil. Grill them for about 1 minute per side until tender and slightly charred. Remove from the grill and let them cool.
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Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmigiano Reggiano, lemon zest, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well-blended and creamy.
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Spread the filling: Take each grilled zucchini slice and spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture on one side.
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Add toppings and roll: Place a fresh basil leaf and half a slow roasted tomato on the rich filling of each slice, then carefully roll them up from one end to the other.
Optional: Drizzle with olive oil before serving for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Grilled Zucchini Rollups
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Slice Thin: Ensure zucchini slices are ultra-thin for easier rolling and a tender bite. Thick slices will be difficult to roll and may tear.
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Cool Adequately: Let the grilled zucchini cool long enough to avoid burns while assembling your rollups. This prevents a mishap when you handle the hot zucchini.
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Prep Ahead: Save time by preparing slow roasted tomatoes in advance. You can make them a day ahead to streamline your cooking process.
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Try Variations: Feel free to substitute zucchini with eggplant for another flavor profile. Or, add chopped mint to the ricotta mixture for a unique twist on Grilled Zucchini Rollups.
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Serving Options: These rollups can be served warm or cold, making them versatile for any gathering. Both ways delight the palate and make for an appealing dish!
What to Serve with Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow Roasted Tomatoes?
Imagine creating a delightful spread that offers a variety of flavors and textures to accompany your delicious rollups.
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Light Garden Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a lemon vinaigrette enhance the refreshing nature of the rollups, balancing their rich filling.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and crispy, these add a delightful crunch and an aromatic flavor that complements the creamy rollups perfectly.
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Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber delivers a wholesome contrast that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden and seasoned, these provide a hearty texture that’s wonderfully comforting alongside the light rollups. Each bite bursts with flavor and heartiness.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of the ricotta, refreshingly elevating the overall dining experience.
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Dessert Platter: Finish with fresh fruit or a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate, echoing the citrus notes in the rollups.
With these delightful options, your table will be bursting with flavors and aromatic notes, making your meal unforgettable!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Zucchini Rollups
Fridge: Store leftover rollups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They taste best within 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze grilled zucchini rollups by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy them as if they were fresh!
Serve Cold: These Grilled Zucchini Rollups can also be enjoyed cold, making them a fantastic option for meals on-the-go or light summer lunches.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Zucchini Rollups Stuffed with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow Roasted Tomatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the zucchini slices and grill them up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the creamy ricotta filling can be mixed ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just spread the filling on the grilled zucchini, add a basil leaf and a half slow roasted tomato, then roll them up. This not only saves time but ensures you have a delicious, fresh appetizer ready to impress your guests effortlessly.
Grilled Zucchini Rollups Variations
Feel free to play with these delightful rollups to match your taste and dietary needs!
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Eggplant Swap: Replace zucchini with thinly sliced eggplant for a unique smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the filling.
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Minty Freshness: Stir in 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh mint into the ricotta mix for a bright burst of flavor that awakens the entire dish.
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Cheesy Twist: Use goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy, creamier filling that adds a rich depth to your rollups.
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Hearty Addition: Mix in some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the ricotta blend for an extra punch of umami and brightness.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture to turn up the heat, making for a delightful excitement in every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or walnuts into the ricotta filling for a textural contrast that is satisfying and hearty.
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Vegan Friendly: For a vegan twist, use a cashew or almond-based ricotta substitute and skip the cheese entirely, ensuring it maintains creaminess.
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Herb Garden: Experiment with a mix of herbs such as dill or thyme instead of basil to shift the flavor profile and bring a new herbaceous touch.
Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow Roasted Tomatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe zucchini?
Absolutely! When selecting zucchini, look for ones that are firm, with smooth skin and a rich green color. Avoid zucchini with dark spots or blemishes, as these are indicators of overripeness. Ideally, a medium size (about 6-8 inches long) is perfect since they offer the best balance between tenderness and flavor.
How should I store leftover rollups?
Very good question! Leftover Grilled Zucchini Rollups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for optimal flavor and freshness, I recommend enjoying them within 24 hours. Just keep them sealed to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze these rollups?
Of course! To freeze your Grilled Zucchini Rollups, first allow them to cool completely after assembly. Then, wrap each rollup tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What if my zucchini tears while grilling?
Oh no! If you find your zucchini tearing, you might be using slices that are too thick. For perfect rolls, make sure your zucchini slices are thin—around 1/8 inch. If a piece tears, don’t worry! Simply use it as an extra layer, or you can chop it up and mix it into your ricotta filling for added flavor!
Are these rollups suitable for pets?
Great question! While zucchini itself is safe for dogs in moderation, the fillings may not be suitable for pets, especially the garlic and dairy. So it’s best to keep these delightful rollups just for your enjoyment! Always check with your vet if you’re unsure about what foods are safe for your furry friends.
Can I substitute the cheese for a dairy-free option?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free approach, you can use a plant-based ricotta or substitute the cheese with blended tofu mixed with nutritional yeast and lemon juice. This will keep the flavor profile similar while accommodating dietary restrictions. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Grilled Zucchini Rollups Stuffed with Ricotta and Roasted Tomatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill: Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prep the zucchini: Lightly brush each zucchini slice with oil, grill for about 1 minute per side until tender.
- Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmigiano Reggiano, lemon zest, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
- Spread the filling: Take each grilled zucchini slice and spread a layer of the ricotta mixture on one side.
- Add toppings and roll: Place a basil leaf and half a slow roasted tomato on each slice, then roll them up.