Delicious Eggplant Roll-Ups Appetizer Recipe

Ingredients

Eggplant Preparation

2 medium eggplants (approximately 600 grams or 1.3 pounds)

Salt (to taste)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Filling Ingredients

200 grams (7 ounces) cream cheese

100 grams (3.5 ounces) feta cheese (or substitute)

2 cloves garlic (minced)

A handful of fresh cilantro (chopped)

50 grams (1.75 ounces) walnuts (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Eggplants

Begin by slicing the eggplants thinly, creating rounds or long strips according to your preference. Sprinkle salt evenly over the slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process will help draw out excess moisture and bitterness.

Once the time is up, rinse the eggplants under cold water to remove the salt and place them on a paper towel to dry thoroughly.

Step 2

Fry the Eggplant Slices

In a frying pan, heat a sufficient amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Carefully add the eggplant slices to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until they are golden brown on both sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.

Once they are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 3

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and chopped walnuts. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and form a creamy filling.

Step 4

Assemble the Roll-Ups

Take a slice of the fried eggplant and spread a generous amount of the filling on one side. Starting from the edge, roll the eggplant tightly to form a roll. Continue this process until all the eggplant slices and filling are used up.

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing snack. Enjoy!

Servings

🎉 It's time to serve up these delightful Eggplant Roll-Ups! Here are some tempting suggestions to really wow your guests:

Perfect Party Platter: Arrange your roll-ups on a beautiful platter and drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a burst of color and flavor. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that extra touch of elegance! 🌿

Pair with a Refreshing Salad: These roll-ups make a great pairing with a crisp green salad. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Your taste buds will thank you! 🥗

Complement with Dips: Serve alongside some tangy tzatziki or an herby yogurt sauce. The creamy dip will elevate each bite and keep everyone coming back for more! 🥣

Make It a Meal: Want a hearty meal? Place the roll-ups over a bed of quinoa or couscous, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice. It turns this appetizer into a filling main dish! 🍽️

Equipment

Sharp Knife

A sharp knife will make slicing the eggplants much easier and safer, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking!

We recommend:

Prime best seller

imarku Japanese Chef Knife - Sharp Kitchen Knife 8 Inch Chef's Knives HC Steel Paring Knife, Unique Gifts for Men and Women, Gifts for Mom or Dad, Kitchen Gadgets with Premium Gift Box

4.6

(12,563) imarku Japanese Chef Knife - Sharp Kitchen Knife 8 Inch Chef's Knives HC Steel Paring Knife, Unique Gifts for Men and Women, Gifts for Mom or Dad, Kitchen Gadgets with Premium Gift Box $39.99 View details Prime

MOSFiATA 8" Super Sharp Professional Chef's Knife with Finger Guard and Knife Sharpener, German High Carbon Stainless Steel EN1.4116 with Micarta Handle and Gift Box

4.6

(9,896) MOSFiATA 8" Super Sharp Professional Chef's Knife with Finger Guard and Knife Sharpener, German High Carbon Stainless Steel EN1.4116 with Micarta Handle and Gift Box $39.99 $47.99 View details

Frying Pan

Choose a non-stick frying pan to prevent sticking and make flipping the eggplant easier. A cast-iron skillet also adds great flavor!

We recommend:

Prime

4.5

(10,097) HexClad Hybrid Nonstick 7-Inch Fry Pan, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher and Oven Safe, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops $109.00 View details Prime

SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Saute Pan 10-Inch, Non-toxic Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, Healthy Jumbo Cooker, Stay Cool Handle, Induction Compatible, PFOA & PFAS Free

4.7

(8,221) SENSARTE Nonstick Ceramic Saute Pan 10-Inch, Non-toxic Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, Healthy Jumbo Cooker, Stay Cool Handle, Induction Compatible, PFOA & PFAS Free $43.99 View details Prime best seller

Tramontina Professional Series 8-Inch Fry Pan, Heavy-Gauge Aluminum with Reinforced Nonstick Coating, Oven and Dishwasher Safe, NSF Certified, Made in Brazil

4.6

(22,672) Tramontina Professional Series 8-Inch Fry Pan, Heavy-Gauge Aluminum with Reinforced Nonstick Coating, Oven and Dishwasher Safe, NSF Certified, Made in Brazil $26.06 $35.00 View details

Paper Towels

Handy for absorbing excess oil after frying, keeping your roll-ups light and crispy without the greasiness.

We recommend:

Prime

Brawny Tear-A-Square Paper Towels, 12 Double Rolls = 24 Regular Rolls, 3 Sheet Sizes (Quarter, Half, Full), Strength for All Messes, Cleanups, and Meal Prep

4.8

(11,922) Brawny Tear-A-Square Paper Towels, 12 Double Rolls = 24 Regular Rolls, 3 Sheet Sizes (Quarter, Half, Full), Strength for All Messes, Cleanups, and Meal Prep $22.94 View details Prime

4.7

(12,651) Sparkle Pick-A-Size Paper Towels, 24 Double Rolls = 48 Regular Rolls, Everyday Value Paper Towel with Full and Half Sheets $29.12 View details Prime

4.5

(13,535) Scott Paper Towels, Choose-A-Sheet, 30 Double Rolls (2 Packs of 15) = 60 Regular Rolls (100 Sheets Per Roll) $31.10 $32.98 View details

Mixing Bowl

A medium mixing bowl is essential for combining the filling ingredients. Make sure it’s big enough to work comfortably!

We recommend:

Prime

YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage

4.7

(9,737) YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage $27.99 $35.99 View details Prime best seller

4.8

(29,369) Pyrex Glass, 3-Piece, 3 PC Mixing Bowl Set $17.53 View details Prime

REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful)

4.8

(8,743) REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful) $26.99 View details

Variations

Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular cheese with gluten-free alternatives while ensuring the other ingredients, like the eggplant and nuts, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this dish without worry! 🌾🚫

Vegan Option: Replace the feta with a plant-based cheese and skip the cream cheese. Add some nutritional yeast to give it a cheesy flavor. You won't even miss the dairy! 🌱✨

Faq

What if my eggplant is too bitter?
If your eggplant tastes bitter, try salting it longer before rinsing. This process helps draw out extra moisture and bitterness!
How do I know when the eggplant is cooked properly?
The eggplant should be soft and golden brown on both sides. You want it tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on it while frying!
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The filling can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge and assemble the roll-ups when you're ready to serve.
How do I keep the roll-ups from falling apart?
Ensure the eggplant slices are tender yet firm enough to hold the filling. You can also use toothpicks to secure them if needed!
Can I bake the roll-ups instead of frying them?
Yes! You can bake them by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and bubbly. Enjoy a lighter version!
What other fillings can I try?
Get creative! You can use sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even grilled vegetables. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combinations!