Grilled zucchini roll ups with lemon ricotta showcase fresh ingredients combined in a delightful and appealing appetizer or light dish. These rolls are not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A quick and simple recipe perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh and vibrant flavors of summer vegetables.
- Impress guests with a beautiful and elegant presentation.
- Great for both appetizers and light main dishes.
Grilled Zucchini Roll Ups with Lemon Ricotta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Zucchini Roll Ups with Lemon Ricotta deliver a fresh, light, and elegant dish. Grilled zucchini slices wrap around a creamy ricotta filling with lemon and basil, finished with sweet roasted tomatoes for a balanced and flavorful bite.
Ingredients
3 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise thin
Olive oil for brushing
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves
Slow-roasted tomatoes, halved
Instructions
1. Brush zucchini slices with olive oil
2. Grill over medium-high heat for 1 minute per side until tender
3. Let zucchini cool slightly
4. Mix ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, basil, salt, and pepper until smooth
5. Spread ricotta mixture over each zucchini slice
6. Add basil leaf and roasted tomato on top
7. Roll each slice tightly into a roll
8. Serve immediately or chill slightly before serving
Notes
Use thin, even zucchini slices for easy rolling
Do not overcook zucchini to prevent softness
Let zucchini cool before assembling
Use fresh lemon zest for best flavor
Serve fresh for best texture and presentation
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 medium zucchini (sliced lengthwise thin)
- Olive oil (for brushing/grilling)
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt & black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves
- Slow-roasted tomatoes (halved)
Why These Ingredients Work
The zucchini serves as the perfect canvas for this recipe, offering a mild flavor and tender texture. Grilling enhances its
natural sweetness while adding a slight char, creating an irresistible base for the filling.
Ricotta cheese provides a creamy richness that contrasts beautifully with the freshness of the lemon zest and
basil, delivering a bright flavor profile. Finally, the slow-roasted tomatoes contribute a
sweet-tart complexity that rounds out the dish while adding a lovely visual appeal.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or tongs
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Zucchini
Brush zucchini slices with olive oil. Grill over medium-high heat for about 1 minute per side, until just tender. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling
Mix ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, chopped basil, salt, and pepper until creamy and well combined.
This mixture is the key to adding a savory and tangy flavor to your roll ups.
Step 3: Assemble the Rollups
Spread the ricotta mixture onto each zucchini slice. Add a basil leaf and a slow-roasted tomato half on top. This step can be customized based on your own preferences or what you have on hand.
Step 4: Roll & Serve
Tightly roll each zucchini slice into a bundle. Secure if needed and serve immediately as appetizers or a light dish.
This final presentation is both cute and appetizing.
You Must Know
Grilled zucchini roll ups are best served fresh but can be stored for a short period in the refrigerator.
The flavors meld beautifully, and they can be enjoyed either cold or slightly warmed, making them versatile for servers
and guests alike.
Personal Secret: For the best results, let the grilled zucchini cool slightly before assembling.
This helps maintain the structure of the zucchini and allows the flavors of the filling to meld together nicely.
Pro Tips & Cooking Hacks
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin zucchini slices.
- Try adding spinach or other herbs to the ricotta for more flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the zucchini to keep them from becoming mushy.
- Make extra filling and serve as a dip with fresh vegetables.
Flavor Variations & Suggestions
For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese to the ricotta filling.
This addition enhances the dish’s richness while providing a slightly tangy flavor.
If you’re craving something spicier, incorporate red pepper flakes into the ricotta mixture for a subtle kick.
Make-Ahead Options
You can grill the zucchini and prepare the ricotta filling ahead of time.
Store the components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Assemble the roll ups right before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
What to Serve With Grilled Zucchini Roll Ups with Lemon Ricota
Pair this dish with a light summer salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
A crisp white wine or iced tea makes a refreshing beverage accompaniment. For dessert, consider a sorbet or fruit tart to round out the meal.
Allergy Information
This dish contains dairy; for a dairy-free version, substitute the ricotta and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives. For gluten-free, enjoy this dish as is, as no gluten-containing ingredients are present.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven until warmed
through, or enjoy cold as a refreshing snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cheeses in the filling?
Yes, you can substitute the cheeses with your favorites, such as goat cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the zucchini is done grilling?
The zucchini is done when it is tender but retains its shape and has a slight char, typically taking about one minute per
side.
Can I prepare these roll ups in advance?
Yes, both the zucchini and filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored separately until ready to assemble.
What should I serve with these roll ups?
Pair these roll ups with a refreshing salad, grilled meats, or a light pasta dish to complement their flavors.
How can I prevent the zucchini from becoming mushy?
Be sure to grill the zucchini slices quickly over medium-high heat to prevent excessive water loss leading to mushiness.
