Grilled Zucchini Rollups Stuffed with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow-Roasted Tomatoes

 

Grilled Zucchini Rollups Stuffed with Lemon-Basil Ricotta and Slow-Roasted Tomatoes
Ingredients
For the Zucchini:

3 large, straight zucchini (wider ones are easier to roll)

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp cracked black pepper

For the Lemon-Basil Filling:

1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

1 tsp lemon zest

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 small garlic clove, grated

For the Slow-Roasted Tomatoes & Garnish:

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), thinly sliced

1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Fresh micro-basil or small basil leaves

Directions
Slice the Zucchini: Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to slice the zucchini lengthwise into 1/8-inch thick ribbons. Discard the first and last slices that are mostly skin.

The Quick Grill: Brush both sides of the ribbons with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Grill the ribbons for 1–2 minutes per side just until they have char marks and are pliable enough to roll. Set aside to cool.

Mix the Ricotta: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, chopped basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated garlic. Stir until smooth and fluffy.

The Assembly: Lay a cooled zucchini ribbon flat on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the ricotta mixture at one end of the ribbon.

Add the Flavor Pop: Place 2–3 strips of the slow-roasted (sun-dried) tomatoes on top of the ricotta.

The Roll: Carefully roll the zucchini ribbon away from you, starting from the cheese end, into a neat cylinder. Stand it upright on a serving platter. Repeat with the remaining ribbons.

The Final Touches: Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the tops of the rolls.

The Finish: Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh micro-basil. These can be served at room temperature or chilled for 20 minutes to firm up.

Nutritional Info (per serving, 3 rollups)
Calories: 185 kcal

Protein: 9g

Carbohydrates: 10g

Fat: 13g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 4g

Sodium: 310mg