Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta Recipe

If you are looking for a light, fresh, and utterly delightful appetizer or snack, these Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta will quickly become one of your favorites. This dish combines the smoky char from perfectly grilled zucchini with a creamy, tangy ricotta filling brightened by fresh lemon and fragrant basil. Each bite is a harmonious dance of textures and flavors, making it a wonderful way to enjoy summer vegetables or impress guests with something simple yet sophisticated.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for these Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta are refreshingly straightforward yet vital for capturing the essence of this dish. Each component brings a unique touch, from the smoky zucchini to the zesty, creamy filling loaded with fresh herbs.

• 2 medium zucchinis: Thinly sliced lengthwise for easy rolling and grilling, they provide the perfect tender base with a hint of smoky char.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: A creamy canvas that soaks up the lemon and basil flavors beautifully.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma without overpowering the delicate ricotta.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brings a touch of tang that livens up the filling.
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped: Fresh herbs are essential for that garden-fresh taste and vibrant color.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Introduces a subtle savory depth to balance the lemon and basil.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Basic seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.
• 1 tbsp olive oil, for grilling: Helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and adds richness.
• Optional shaved Parmesan for garnish: Adds a nutty, salty finish for those who want an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta

Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Zucchini

Start by heating your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Lightly brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Grill each strip for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until tender and lightly charred. This grilling step not only softens the zucchini but also adds a smoky layer that balances wonderfully with the fresh ricotta filling. After grilling, set the strips aside to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.

Step 2: Make the Lemon-Basil Ricotta Filling

While the zucchini cools, mix the ricotta cheese with freshly grated lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped basil, and minced garlic in a bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper. This mixture is the star component, offering a creamy texture combined with citrusy brightness and herbal freshness. The flavors meld beautifully, lifting the simple ricotta into something truly special, perfect for pairing with the smoky zucchini.

Step 3: Assemble the Rollups

Take a grilled zucchini strip and spoon a small amount of the lemon-basil ricotta mixture onto one end. Carefully roll the strip up, creating a neat little bundle of flavor. Repeat this process with all the slices. The rollup shape makes these an elegant appetizer or light snack that’s easy to pop in your mouth — no utensils necessary!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Arrange your Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta on a serving platter. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle shaved Parmesan and a few extra basil leaves over the top. This adds visual appeal and a salty bite that contrasts beautifully with the mild ricotta.

How to Serve Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of shaved Parmesan or a dusting of cracked black pepper elevates these rollups to a party-ready bite. Fresh basil leaves not only add color but also reinforce those delightful garden-fresh aromas with every mouthful.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides like a crisp garden salad or a tangy tomato bruschetta. You could also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a wholesome, balanced meal that still feels summery and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta on a long wooden board lined with fresh greens for an eye-catching, rustic look. Or place them upright in a shallow bowl filled with coarse salt or rice to keep them from unrolling during a buffet or cocktail party. Either way, they make a stunning addition to any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the rollups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to two days and actually benefit from a little time to let the flavors meld further.

Freezing

Because of the delicate texture of grilled zucchini and fresh ricotta, freezing is not recommended. The zucchini may become watery and the ricotta could lose its creamy consistency once thawed.

Reheating

Reheating is best done gently in a low oven or just at room temperature. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the zucchini to become soggy and the ricotta to separate. Enjoying the rollups slightly chilled or at room temperature preserves the perfect texture and flavor balance.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of ricotta?

Ricotta is great for its creamy mildness and texture, but you could experiment with mascarpone or goat cheese for a tangier twist. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and consistency.

What if I don’t have a grill pan or outdoor grill?

You can use a regular skillet or even a broiler for the zucchini slices. Just keep a close eye so they get nicely charred and tender without burning.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The lemon-basil ricotta filling can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated to allow the flavors to meld nicely. Just stir before spreading it onto the zucchini strips.

Are these rollups suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, the recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly. To keep it strictly vegetarian, skip the Parmesan garnish or use a vegetarian hard cheese alternative.

How thin should I slice the zucchini?

Thin slices about 1/8 inch thick are ideal—they need to be flexible enough to roll without breaking but sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying these Grilled Zucchini Rollups with Lemon-Basil Ricotta enough—they are such a fresh, bright, and easy-to-love dish that works for every occasion. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or need a show-stopping appetizer for your next gathering, these rollups bring a little sunshine and a lot of flavor to your table. So grab a zucchini, fire up your grill, and enjoy this delightful recipe with friends and family!