Name: Zucchini Roll Ups with Ricotta and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 large zucchini (7-8 inches long, 2-3 inches wide, straight as possible); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, rough chopped; 1 shallot, diced; 3 ounces spinach (a big, giant handful); 1 cup ricotta cheese (or substitute vegan ricotta); 2 ounces grated mozzarella cheese (½ cup), smoked mozzarella recommended; 1 egg; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; ¼ cup basil, chopped or ribbons; Pinch of chili flakes (optional); 1-2 teaspoons lemon zest (optional); 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade); Additional mozzarella cheese for topping (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 29 reviews

If you are looking to brighten up your dinner table with something fresh, comforting, and naturally elegant, the Zucchini Roll Ups with Ricotta and Spinach Recipe will become your new favorite. These delicate rolls combine tender slices of zucchini with a luscious, creamy filling of ricotta and spinach, all bathed in vibrant marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a dish that feels special yet is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for sharing with loved ones or impressing guests with a veggie-forward, cheesy delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white baking dish with nine rolls neatly arranged in three rows. Each roll has a base layer of green spinach leaves, followed by a white creamy cheese layer mixed with small bits of herbs. On top of each roll, there is a bright red tomato sauce spread unevenly, with some sauce pooling at the bottom of the dish. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. The lighting highlights the textures of the spinach, cheese, and sauce in a natural way. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Zucchini Roll Ups with Ricotta and Spinach Recipe plays an important role, contributing flavors, texture, and a pop of color. From the silky ricotta and fresh spinach to the smoky mozzarella and bright basil, every component works beautifully to build a harmonious taste experience.

Zucchini (3 large): Choose straight, firm zucchinis about 7-8 inches long for easy slicing and rolling.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a rich, fruity base for roasting or grilling the zucchini slices.
Garlic cloves (4, rough chopped): Infuses the filling with a warm, savory aroma.
Shallot (1, diced): Offers a subtle sweetness that balances the garlic perfectly.
Spinach (3 ounces): A generous handful that wilts down into the creamy ricotta filling for a fresh green color and nutrients.
Ricotta cheese (1 cup): The creamy star of the filling, bringing mild, smooth richness.
Mozzarella cheese (2 ounces, grated): Smoked mozzarella is especially tasty here, adding depth and a melty topping.
Egg (1): Binds the filling ingredients together, ensuring luscious rolls that hold their shape.
Salt (½ teaspoon) and pepper (¼ teaspoon): Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors beautifully.
Basil (¼ cup, chopped or ribbons): Brings a fresh, herbal brightness to the mix.
Chili flakes (pinch, optional): For those who like a gentle kick of heat.
Lemon zest (1-2 teaspoons, optional): Adds a subtle, zesty brightness that lifts the whole dish.
Marinara sauce (2 cups): Use a quality store-bought variety like Trader Joe’s Organic Marinara or homemade — it’s the flavorful bed that ties everything together.

How to Make Zucchini Roll Ups with Ricotta and Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and setting your grill to high if you prefer grilling. Trim the ends off your zucchinis, then slice them vertically into thin, ¼ inch wide strips—aim for about twelve slices. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil, then roast on a parchment-lined pan or grill until tender and flexible. This step ensures the zucchini is soft enough to roll without cracking, and letting it steam briefly under foil after grilling helps keep them pliable.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While your zucchini is cooking, sauté the garlic and shallot gently in olive oil. Allow them to become golden but not browned, which brings out a nice sweetness without bitterness. Add the fresh spinach, stirring and then covering briefly to let it wilt perfectly. Remove from heat and combine this mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, egg, salt, pepper, and basil in a bowl. Add chili flakes and lemon zest if you want to brighten the flavors further. This filling is creamy, fresh, and packed with flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups

Spread one cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Take each zucchini strip, spread a generous layer of ricotta filling on top, and roll it up gently, placing it seam-side down in the baking dish. Once all rolls are nestled in the sauce, spoon more marinara on top of each, sprinkle with extra mozzarella if you like, then cover with foil.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake covered at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden. The baking melds the flavors together and creates a beautiful, bubbling finish, inviting you to dig right in.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil ribbons over the top for a gorgeous, fragrant garnish. These rolls look as good as they taste, with the vibrant colors and luscious textures coming through beautifully.

How to Serve Zucchini Roll Ups with Ricotta and Spinach Recipe

A white speckled bowl holds three pieces of stuffed zucchini rolls layered with bright green spinach leaves, melted white cheese, and red tomato sauce. The rolls have dark green zucchini strips wrapped around the filling, topped with thin sliced fresh basil leaves. The bowl sits on a dark wooden surface with a gray cloth partially visible at the bottom. A gold fork held by a woman's hand is lifting one roll, and fresh green basil leaves are seen in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil ribbons or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper add an aromatic layer and visual appeal. A light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the richness without overpowering the gentle flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, garlic bread, or even a light couscous or quinoa salad to create a well-rounded meal. The fresh, light nature of the roll ups balances heavier sides beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the roll ups standing upright on a platter or nestle them in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Layering additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts before serving can add texture and elevate the overall experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and they reheat nicely.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled but unbaked roll ups by placing the dish in the freezer. Wrap well with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed to ensure heated through.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes covered with foil to keep moisture, then uncover for the last few minutes to melt the cheese nicely. Microwaving is fine for a quick fix but can make the zucchini a bit softer.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta for tanginess or goat cheese for creaminess. Just keep the balance so the filling stays smooth and flavorful.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, you can substitute vegan ricotta and omit the egg or use an egg replacer. Use vegan mozzarella or another melting plant-based cheese to keep it dairy-free while still delicious.

How thin should I slice the zucchini?

Slices should be about ¼ inch thick—thin enough to roll easily without breaking but thick enough to hold the filling securely.

Can I prep the filling in advance?

Definitely. The filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before assembling the roll ups to refresh the texture.

What if I don’t have a grill?

Roasting in the oven works perfectly well and actually makes the zucchini wonderfully tender and pliable, ready to roll without any special equipment.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a vegetable-centric dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple, don’t wait to try this Zucchini Roll Ups with Ricotta and Spinach Recipe. It’s a perfect way to showcase summer squash and fresh herbs, with creamy cheese and bright marinara making every bite delightful. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a staple for your weeknight dinners and entertaining alike!