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Skinny Lasagna Rolls: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Dish

Lasagna is often considered a comforting and indulgent meal, but it can also be heavy and calorific. Enter skinny lasagna rolls, a delightful alternative that marries the essence of traditional lasagna with a lighter, healthier approach. Not only do these rolls offer a satisfying meal, but they also provide a creative twist that is sure to impress both family and friends.

A Brief Overview of Lasagna

Traditional lasagna consists of layers of sheets of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and plenty of cheese. While it’s undeniably delicious, it can be high in calories and fat. The concept of skinny lasagna rolls flips this classic on its head by using thinly rolled ingredients that still pack a flavour punch without the guilty conscience.

What Are Skinny Lasagna Rolls?

Skinny lasagna rolls replace traditional pasta sheets with thinner alternatives, such as zucchini strips, and utilise lighter ingredients to maintain that beloved lasagna flavour. The rolls are typically filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and a hint of nutmeg, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. The result is a dish that is lower in carbs and calories but remains high in taste and satisfaction.

Ingredients for Skinny Lasagna Rolls

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

For the Rolls:

• 2 medium zucchinis (or aubergines for a different flavour)
• 250g ricotta cheese
• 100g fresh spinach (you can use frozen if preferred)
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)
• A pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 400g canned diced tomatoes
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For Topping:

• 50g grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavour (optional)

Method

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips, about 5mm thick. Lay the strips on a baking tray, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Once ready, pat them dry with kitchen paper.

2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, fresh spinach (cooked and squeezed of excess moisture), egg (if using), nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the canned tomatoes and oregano. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Rolls: Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a strip of zucchini, place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture at one end, and roll it tightly. Place the rolls seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all the filling is used.

5. Top and Bake: Once all the rolls are in the baking dish, pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top. If desired, sprinkle with grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and slightly brown.

6. Serve: Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy!

Conclusion

Skinny lasagna rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy the comforting flavours of lasagna while keeping it light and healthy. They are easily adaptable, allowing you to experiment with various fillings and sauces. Whether you’re looking for a midweek meal or something to serve during a special occasion, these delicious rolls are sure to please. Give them a try, and you might find that they become a new family favourite!