Fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor, Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are perfect for any occasion. These elegant rollups showcase the versatility of zucchini while delivering a delightful combination of creamy ricotta and tangy tomatoes. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a light meal, this dish is sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and vibrant presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: These rollups require minimal effort, making them a quick option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful Combination: The lemon-basil ricotta pairs perfectly with the smoky grilled zucchini and sweet slow-roasted tomatoes, creating a harmonious taste experience.
Versatile Dish: Serve these rollups as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. They can easily adapt to your meal needs!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean dairy, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant presentation make these rollups a stunning addition to any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill or grill pan
Knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

Grill or grill pan: This tool is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks on the zucchini while adding a smoky flavor.
Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to slice the zucchini into thin strips for even cooking and rolling.
Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the ricotta cheese with lemon and basil, ensuring all flavors are well blended.

Ingredients

For the Rollups:

2 large zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
Olive oil, for brushing
Salt, to taste

How to Make Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips using a sharp knife.
Brush each strip lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Step 2: Grill the Zucchini

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
Place the zucchini strips on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until tender and slightly charred.
Remove from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Lemon-Basil Ricotta

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with freshly chopped basil and lemon zest.
Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Rollups

Take one grilled zucchini strip and place a spoonful of lemon-basil ricotta at one end.
Carefully roll up the zucchini around the filling.
Secure with a toothpick if needed, repeating until all strips are filled.

Step 5: Serve with Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Pair your rollups with slow-roasted tomatoes for added flavor.
Enjoy these delightful bites either warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Grilled Zucchini Rollups are a delightful, fresh dish that can be served in various ways. Their smoky flavor and creamy filling make them an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Light Appetizer

Serve cold on a platter for a refreshing start to your meal.
Pair with a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor.

With a Green Salad

Place the rollups atop a bed of mixed greens for a colorful presentation.
Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette to complement the flavors.

Alongside Grilled Proteins

Serve next to grilled chicken or turkey for a complete meal.
The smokiness of the rollups pairs well with the charred flavors of grilled meats.

As Part of a Veggie Platter

Include these rollups in a vegetable spread alongside carrots and bell peppers.
This makes for a vibrant and healthy snack option at gatherings.

How to Perfect Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

To ensure your Grilled Zucchini Rollups turn out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.

Choose firm zucchinis: Select zucchinis that are firm and without blemishes for the best texture.
Slice evenly: Make sure to slice the zucchinis into even strips to ensure they grill uniformly.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil will enhance the flavor of the ricotta, making it more aromatic.
Don’t overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the rollups; this helps prevent them from falling apart during grilling.
Grill at medium heat: Cooking at medium heat allows the zucchinis to soften without burning, achieving that perfect char.
Let them cool slightly: Allowing the rollups to cool before serving helps set their shape and enhances flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Complementing your Grilled Zucchini Rollups with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber provides a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for added warmth.
Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra ricotta filling.
Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs adds texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with the rollups.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes create a classic Italian side that complements the zucchini’s freshness.
Hummus Dip: A creamy hummus offers a great dip option, adding protein and richness alongside your rollups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the salt: Failing to season your zucchini can lead to bland rollups. Always add salt before grilling for enhanced flavor.
Cutting uneven strips: Uneven zucchini slices can cook at different rates, leading to undercooked or burnt pieces. Ensure uniformity for even grilling.
Overstuffing the rollups: Packing too much filling can cause the rollups to burst while cooking. Use a moderate amount of filling for best results.
Not preheating the grill: Grilling on a cold surface can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to maintain consistent heat.
Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the rollups too soon after grilling can cause the filling to spill out. Let them rest briefly for better presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover rollups in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

You can freeze these rollups for up to 2 months.
Wrap each rollup tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes?
Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are delightful appetizers made by rolling grilled zucchini around a flavorful ricotta mixture and slow-roasted tomatoes.

How do I make the Lemon-Basil Ricotta?
To make Lemon-Basil Ricotta, mix ricotta cheese with fresh basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.

Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers for different flavors and textures.

How do I ensure my tomatoes are perfectly roasted?
Slow roast your tomatoes at a low temperature (around 275°F) with olive oil, salt, and herbs for about 2 hours until they caramelize.

Are these rollups suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These rollups store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for meal preparation.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta & Slow Roasted Tomatoes are not only elegant but also versatile. Their fresh flavors make them suitable for any occasion. Feel free to customize the filling or toppings according to your preferences!