Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
Highlighted under: Light Meal Inspirations
I love making Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups for friends and family because they are not only delicious but also allow for creativity in the kitchen. Buoyant with flavors from fresh vegetables and rich marinara sauce, these roll-ups are a feast for the eyes and the palate. Assembling them may take a little time, but the colorful presentation and satisfying bites are well worth it. They are perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive dish for gatherings, and I can guarantee everyone will be coming back for seconds!
When I first experimented with Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups, I wasn't sure how they'd turn out. However, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. The mix of spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella wrapped in tender lasagna noodles really amplifies the taste experience. I found that par-cooking the noodles slightly helps to keep them pliable when rolling.
One key tip is to use a homemade or high-quality marinara sauce for this dish. The sauce serves as a flavorful base, elevating the entire meal. Each bite is a delicious combination of gooey cheese, fresh herbs, and perfectly roasted veggies!
Why You Will Love These Roll Ups
- Delicious blend of fresh vegetables and cheesy goodness
- Easy to slice and serve, making it a great party dish
- Great make-ahead option for busy weeknights
- Versatile – you can easily customize with your favorite vegetables
The Art of Rolling
Rolling up the lasagna noodles with filling can be an art form. Once you’ve spread the filling over each noodle, ensure it’s evenly distributed to prevent uneven flavors and textures. A good technique is to leave a small border on the sides to avoid spillage as you roll. If you find the noodles are sticking, a light dusting of flour can help or using a spatula to assist in the rolling process can be beneficial.
When assembling the roll ups, lay them seam-side down in the baking dish. This helps to keep them tight and prevents the filling from falling out during baking. If any of your noodles break or tear, don't worry! Simply patch up the filling and roll them as best as you can; they will still be delicious.
Cooking with Vegetables
This recipe allows for a wonderful opportunity to experiment with different vegetables, catering to your personal taste or what you have on hand. Consider adding sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers to your filling for added flavor and texture. Just make sure any vegetables you include are not too watery to maintain the integrity of the roll ups. For example, if you’re using zucchini, pat it dry after cooking to avoid excess moisture.
The fresh spinach in the filling not only brings vibrant color but also packs in nutrients. Lightly wilting the spinach before mixing it with the ricotta helps reduce its volume, making it easier to roll. Additionally, incorporating a splash of lemon juice will brighten the flavors and help balance the richness of the cheeses.
Perfecting the Bake
Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect lasagna roll ups. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures that the cheese melts evenly and develops a golden crust. Bake until the edges are bubbly and the cheese is golden, which usually takes about 30 minutes. If you like an extra crunchy topping, consider broiling the roll ups for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, but watch closely to avoid burning.
For make-ahead options, you can prepare the roll ups a day prior. Assemble them in your baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap, add the sauce and cheese, and cook; just remember to increase baking time slightly since they’ll be going in cold. For freezing, wrap each roll tightly in plastic and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months, and then baked straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Ingredients
Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Make sure to gather all the ingredients beforehand for an easier cooking experience.
Instructions
Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel.
Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Assemble the Roll Ups
Spread 1/4 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. On each lasagna noodle, spread about 1/4 cup of filling and roll it up. Place seam-side down in the baking dish.
Add Sauce and Cheese
Once all the noodles are assembled, top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve
Let the roll ups cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Don’t forget to allow the lasagna roll ups to rest before serving to help them hold their shape.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a personalized touch.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking to swap out ingredients for dietary reasons, this dish is quite versatile. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based ricotta made from cashews or almonds. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor to your sauce and filling without dairy. Additionally, utilizing vegan cheese varieties for the mozzarella and Parmesan can make this dish suitable for vegan diets.
For those reducing carbohydrates, consider substituting zucchini noodles instead of traditional lasagna noodles. While it may change the texture, the flavor profile will still shine through with the marinara sauce and filling. Just be sure to pat the zucchini noodles dry after cooking to avoid a watery dish.
Serving Suggestions
These vegetable lasagna roll ups can stand alone as a main dish, but they pair wonderfully with a simple side salad. A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette brightens the meal and adds a fresh crunch. Alternatively, serve with garlic bread to soak up the saucy goodness left on the plate.
For a touch of gourmet flair, you can drizzle some balsamic reduction over the finished dish before serving. This adds a beautiful presentation and a sweet-tangy element that complements the savory filling. Freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving can also elevate the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover roll ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, heating for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option for quicker reheating, but be cautious as this can sometimes lead to a rubbery texture in the cheese.
If you’ve frozen the roll ups, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, or place directly into a preheated oven from frozen. Add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time and keep an eye on the cheese to ensure it melts perfectly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare these roll ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll ups and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
→ Can I freeze Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups?
Absolutely! Just assemble them, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
You can use homemade marinara sauce or store-bought. Look for one that's low in added sugars for a healthier option.
→ What can I serve with these roll ups?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups.
Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
I love making Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups for friends and family because they are not only delicious but also allow for creativity in the kitchen. Buoyant with flavors from fresh vegetables and rich marinara sauce, these roll-ups are a feast for the eyes and the palate. Assembling them may take a little time, but the colorful presentation and satisfying bites are well worth it. They are perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive dish for gatherings, and I can guarantee everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Created by: Noemi Turner
Recipe Type: Light Meal Inspirations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Spread 1/4 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. On each lasagna noodle, spread about 1/4 cup of filling and roll it up. Place seam-side down in the baking dish.
Once all the noodles are assembled, top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the roll ups cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a personalized touch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 14g