Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Eggplant Slices

Prepare the Eggplants: Wash the eggplants and trim away the tops and bottoms. Slice a small piece from the bottom of each eggplant to help them sit flat.

Slice the Eggplants: Slice the eggplants lengthwise into approximately ¼-inch thick slices.

Season the Eggplant: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the eggplant slices on it. Drizzle or brush a little olive oil on each slice and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.

Bake the Slices: Bake the eggplant slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Make the Filling: While the eggplant is baking, prepare the filling by combining ricotta cheese, three-quarters of a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl.

Season the Mixture: Add chopped fresh parsley, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Add the Sauce: In a baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. This will keep the eggplant rolls moist and add flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Eggplant Rolls

Stuff the Eggplant: Once the eggplant slices are baked and slightly cooled, take each slice and place a spoonful of the cheese mixture at one end. Roll the eggplant slice from the filled end, forming a neat roll.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Dish

Place in the Dish: Place each assembled eggplant roll seam side down in the prepared baking dish on top of the marinara sauce. Arrange them neatly with a little space between each roll.

Add Extra Cheese: Optionally, top the rolls with additional mozzarella cheese for extra cheesiness.

Bake: Bake in the oven until everything is heated through and any added cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Cool Slightly and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. These eggplant rolls make a delicious main course or a hearty side dish!