Broccoli and Mushroom Ricotta Roll

This Broccoli and Mushroom Ricotta Roll is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and creamy ricotta cheese, all wrapped in a savory roll. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for convenience. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or an elegant appetizer, it’s sure to impress.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes + 1 hour refrigeration

Ingredients:

• 1 broccoli
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling broccoli)
• 350g (12.34 oz) mushrooms, sliced
• Olive oil, for sautéing
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for mushrooms)
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 6 eggs
• 250g (8.81 oz) ricotta cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Italian herbs, to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the Broccoli:
   • Boil the broccoli in salted water (1 teaspoon salt) for 2 minutes. Immediately cool in cold water to stop cooking.
   • Separate the florets and grind the stalk in a blender until smooth.
2. Prepare the Mushrooms:
   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the mushrooms are cooked and any liquid has evaporated. Set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Onion:
   • In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion until softened and golden. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Add the blended broccoli stalk and mix until well combined.
5. Bake the Egg Mixture:
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour the egg mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until set and lightly golden. Allow to cool.
6. Prepare the Ricotta Filling:
   • In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, sautéed mushrooms, minced garlic, and Italian herbs until well combined.
7. Assemble the Roll:
   • Once the baked egg mixture has cooled, spread the ricotta filling evenly on top.
   • Carefully roll the egg mixture up into a log using parchment paper to help keep it tight.
   • Wrap the roll in the parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the roll sliced with a fresh salad on the side for a light meal.
• It also makes a great appetizer, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the roll.
• Use parchment paper to help roll the mixture tightly and evenly.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High in Protein: The eggs and ricotta cheese provide a substantial amount of protein.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli and mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals, adding nutritional value to the dish.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
• Gluten-Free: To ensure the dish is gluten-free, check that all seasonings and ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make-Ahead: The roll can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Delicious and Nutritious: A great way to enjoy vegetables with a creamy, cheesy filling.
• Convenient: Easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for busy days or special occasions.

Conclusion:

Enjoy this Broccoli and Mushroom Ricotta Roll as a tasty and nutritious option for your meals. Its combination of fresh vegetables and creamy ricotta will surely delight your taste buds and make a wonderful addition to your dining table.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
2. Can I substitute ricotta cheese with another type of cheese?
   • Yes, you can use cottage cheese or a soft goat cheese as a substitute for ricotta.
3. How can I make this roll vegan?
   • To make it vegan, you can use a tofu-based ricotta alternative and egg replacer in the egg mixture.
4. What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
   • You can add spinach, kale, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
5. Can I freeze the roll?
   • Yes, you can freeze the roll after it’s been assembled. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
6. How do I prevent the roll from breaking apart when slicing?
   • Make sure the roll is well chilled before slicing, and use a sharp knife to cut clean slices.
7. Can I serve this dish hot?
   • Yes, you can warm the slices in the oven before serving, though it’s also delicious served cold.
8. What herbs work best in this recipe?
   • Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme work well, but you can experiment with your favorite herbs.
9. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
   • Absolutely! You can make the roll ahead and enjoy slices throughout the week.
10. Can I add meat to the filling?
    • Yes, cooked chicken, ham, or bacon can be added to the filling for extra protein.