Involtini Di Melanzane

“A bad neighbor is a misfortune .. as much as a good one is a great blessing” ~ Hesiod

Throughout life’s seasons .. I’ve had the good fortune of living in places with a true sense of community .. neighbors that not only keep an eye .. but genuinely care for one another. Today is no exception.

There have been pot-lucks to trim 18 foot (!) Christmas trees .. parties to celebrate weddings .. casseroles left at the door of those that are sick .. and get-togethers .. just because. Thus was the invitation this past weekend .. both families love to cook .. a great opportunity to try something new.

This recipe flagged for quite some time ..

Eggplant rollatini is Italian .. Involtini translated to mean “little bundles” or “stuffed rolls”

Though variations of the traditional recipe abound .. the common theme remains .. slices of eggplant that are cut .. breaded .. rolled around a mix of cheese & other ingredients .. and baked in the oven. The dish typically served with a sauce ..

At first blush .. it seemed far too complicated .. looking closer .. not so much. Each of the components was made ahead of time .. with assembly happening about an hour before serving. In a lot of ways reminding me of the process one would embark on .. when a good lasagna is the only thing that will do

The secret here is the filling .. though nothing about it is Italian. The pistachios, feta cheese, capers, and quinoa are fantastic together. We kept it safe & went with a milder sauce .. though one could take it any direction they would like.

Whatever you do .. have fun with the rolling the eggplants. It’s kind of like basket-weaving .. only slightly more useful

Enjoy!

xoxo

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~ Adapted from Nigella Lawson .. here

