Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
Highlighted under: Fast Plate Creations
I love making Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups for a healthy yet comforting meal. This recipe allows me to pack in a variety of veggies and cheese while keeping the whole dish fun and delicious. The combination of tender pasta with a flavorful filling is always a hit with my family. Plus, these rolls are perfect for portion control, so everyone can enjoy their own little bundle of goodness! I often prepare a batch in advance and freeze them for quick weeknight dinners.
When I decided to create vegetable lasagna roll ups, I was looking for a way to make lasagna a bit more fun and unique. I found that rolling the pasta helped keep everything neatly contained, and it also allowed for a lovely presentation. A tip I discovered while testing this recipe is to roast the vegetables beforehand; it enhances their flavor and reduces excess moisture, preventing a soggy lasagna.
Every time I serve these roll ups, I’m reminded of how versatile they can be. You can customize the filling with any veggies you have on hand or substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option. They freeze incredibly well too, which makes them perfect for meal prep!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Loaded with nutritious veggies and creamy cheese
- Perfectly portioned, making it easy to serve
- Great for meal prep and can be frozen for later
Choosing the Right Vegetables
The beauty of Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups lies in their versatility. You can customize the filling based on your favorite vegetables or what you have on hand. While zucchini and mushrooms add moisture and depth, consider adding bell peppers or roasted eggplant for extra flavor. If you're aiming for a lighter dish, using cauliflower rice instead of cheese can also bump up the nutrition without sacrificing texture.
For optimal texture and flavor, ensure your vegetables are sautéed until just tender but not mushy. This will help maintain some crunch when you bite into the rolls. If you prefer a more pronounced flavor, roasting your vegetables beforehand can deepen their taste and add a lovely caramelization.
Perfecting the Rolling Technique
Rolling the lasagna noodles is key to achieving the ideal shape and presentation of your roll-ups. Be sure to drain the noodles thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make them too floppy to roll. Lay the noodles flat and spread the filling evenly, leaving about an inch at the edges to prevent spillage during the baking process. A gentle hand will help keep the noodles intact; start rolling tightly from the filled end and use the seam to secure it all together.
If you find that your noodles are breaking as you roll them, try cooking them for a minute less than the package instructs. This will keep them more al dente and flexible for rolling. A spatula can be a helpful tool for spreading the filling, ensuring an even layer across the noodles without tearing them.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the great things about Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups is how easily they can be prepared ahead of time. After assembling the rolls, you can cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time during a busy weeknight but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator, enhancing the overall taste.
If you’re considering freezing them, prepare the roll-ups without baking. Once fully assembled, place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish with a layer of marinara sauce to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for a perfectly bubbly finish.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create delicious vegetable lasagna roll ups:
For the Lasagna Roll Ups
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, grated
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for assembly!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your vegetable lasagna roll ups:
Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Boil a large pot of salted water, add the lasagna noodles, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay out on a clean kitchen towel.
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and zucchini, sautéing until softened. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed vegetables, half of the mozzarella, and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Roll Ups
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on each lasagna noodle. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at one end and roll up tightly. Place seam side down in a baking dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese
Once all the noodles are rolled up and in the dish, cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
Bake the Roll Ups
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the roll ups cool for a few minutes before serving!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what's in season. You can also make a vegan version by using plant-based cheese and tofu instead of ricotta.
Serving Suggestions
These Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups make for a beautiful presentation directly in the baking dish, but for a special touch, consider serving them on individual plates with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil. Pair them with a crisp side salad for a well-rounded meal that balances the richness of the cheese with refreshing greens.
For an extra punch of flavor, try topping each roll with a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper before serving. This elevates not just the taste but also the visual appeal. Serving with garlic toast can also complement the Italian theme and make for hearty dining.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in this recipe. Instead of ricotta, you might substitute cottage cheese for a lower-fat option, or blend in some feta for a tangy twist. You can also toss in some nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative that provides a cheesy flavor without animal products.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider incorporating some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the filling. You can also switch up the sauce – instead of marinara, try a creamy Alfredo or a homemade pesto sauce for a completely different taste experience, keeping it family-friendly yet exciting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these roll ups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them in advance and refrigerate or freeze them before baking.
→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese, cream cheese, or a vegan alternative like tofu blended with nutritional yeast.
→ What if I don't have lasagna noodles?
You can use any flat pasta, just cut it to size. Alternatively, zucchini slices can be used for a low-carb option.
→ Can I add meat to the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be added to the vegetable filling for a heartier dish.
Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
I love making Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups for a healthy yet comforting meal. This recipe allows me to pack in a variety of veggies and cheese while keeping the whole dish fun and delicious. The combination of tender pasta with a flavorful filling is always a hit with my family. Plus, these rolls are perfect for portion control, so everyone can enjoy their own little bundle of goodness! I often prepare a batch in advance and freeze them for quick weeknight dinners.
Created by: Noemi Turner
Recipe Type: Fast Plate Creations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Lasagna Roll Ups
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, grated
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Boil a large pot of salted water, add the lasagna noodles, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay out on a clean kitchen towel.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and zucchini, sautéing until softened. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed vegetables, half of the mozzarella, and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on each lasagna noodle. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at one end and roll up tightly. Place seam side down in a baking dish.
Once all the noodles are rolled up and in the dish, cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what's in season. You can also make a vegan version by using plant-based cheese and tofu instead of ricotta.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 15g