For the eggplant: Cut both eggplants lengthwise into 1/8-inch-thick slices. Choose the 12 largest slices that are closest in size to one another. Reserve the remaining eggplant for another use.
Line 2 sheet pans with parchment paper. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of salt on each pan. Arrange the eggplant slices on the salt and sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of salt over the eggplant on each pan. Let sit for 30 minutes.
For the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Using your hands, mix well until all of the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
To assemble: Prepare a medium-hot fire in a charcoal or gas grill, or preheat a two-burner grill pan over medium-high heat. Oil the grill rack or grill pan with canola oil. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Using paper towels, blot the excess moisture from the eggplant slices, then lightly brush the slices on both sides with olive oil. Place on the grill rack or grill pan. Grill, turning once, until well marked on both sides and the slices are more pliable for rolling. This should take 2 to 3 minutes total. Transfer the slices to a work surface.
Spread half of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9-inch-square flameproof baking dish or other flameproof baking dish that will snugly accommodate the 12 rolls in a single layer.
Lay 1 slice of eggplant running vertically in front of you. Place about ¼ cup of the stuffing on the slice about 2 inches from the short end nearest you, shaping the stuffing so it is about 1 inch wide. Bring the end up over the stuffing, then roll up the slice, enclosing the stuffing completely. Place in the baking dish, seam side down. Repeat with the remaining eggplant and stuffing. Top with the remaining tomato sauce.
Bake until the eggplant is tender and the filling is hot, about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest for about 15 minutes. Turn the oven to broil.
To finish and serve: Top the rolls with the smoked mozzarella, draping 1 slice over every 2 rolls. Place under the broiler until the cheese is bubbling and lightly toasted. Serve directly from the baking dish, or divide among individual serving plates. Who doesn’t love Italian cuisine, especially in the springtime? Eggplant is abundant in Italy, particularly in the south, and there are so many ways to utilize this purple (and sometimes white) plant. Involtini is a favorite of our onboard restaurant, Toscana.
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Oceania Cruises, a culinary and destination-focused cruise line, offers small, luxurious ships with gourmet cuisine and destination-rich itineraries, calling on over 600 ports in more than 100 countries across seven continents. They operate a fleet of small, luxurious ships that can accommodate up to 1,250 guests. Oceania sailings include accommodations, shore excursions, port shuttles, activities, food and most beverages, specialty dining and entertainment.Oceania Cruises attracts affluent retirees and discerning travelers looking for a refined, no-frills experience, as well as solo travelers, couples, and empty nesters.
Key Features of Oceania Cruises includes: 1. Small Ship Luxury – Oceania’s ships are smaller than larger cruise lines, providing a more intimate and personalized experience. 2. Gourmet Cuisine – They are renowned for their culinary program, with restaurants offering diverse and high-quality dining options. 3. Comprehensive Itineraries – Oceania’s itineraries cover a wide range of destinations, including Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. 4. Destination-Rich Experiences – They offer immersive tours and insider experiences that explore the cultural and culinary traditions of the destinations. 5. High Staff-to-Guest Ratio – Oceania boasts a lower crew-to-passenger ratio than many other mid-size cruise ships, ensuring personalized service. 6. Personalized Comfort – They aim to create a sense of comfort and personalized service for all guests. 7. Suite and Stateroom Options – Oceania offers a variety of accommodation options, including Owner’s and Vista Suites, Oceania Suites, and Penthouse Suites, with varying levels of luxury and amenities. 8. Included Amenities – Oceania Cruises includes a variety of amenities in their base fare, such as specialty restaurants, in-suite dining, and some beverage packages.
