2 medium eggplants2 T olive oil1/2 small onion, chopped3 small garlic cloves, minced1/2 c sun-dried tomatoesspinach2 c whole-milk ricotta1/2 t salt1/4 t peppersmall handful basil, chopped2 1/2 c prepared red sauce 1/2 c shredded mozzarella or parmesan (or a combination) For the sauce:3 T olive oil5 garlic cloves, minced2 28-oz cans Pastene Kitchen-Ready ground peeled tomatoes1 can water (optional)1 bunch basil, coarsely choppedsalt and pepper, to taste
Preheat oven to 350F. Cut the stems off eggplant, and discard. Slice eggplant lengthwise into 1/4” strips (or a bit larger, about 8-10 total per eggplant). Arrange slices on a non-stick baking sheet, and sprinkle with a few pinches of salt. Transfer to oven, and cook 12-15 minutes, until eggplant is just tender. Allow eggplant to cool at room temperature. Leave oven on at 350F.
Boil the spinach. Cool down, drain and chop finely.
In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté 5-7 minutes, until onion begins to turn golden brown. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, and cook 2 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl. Add spinach, ricotta, salt, pepper, and basil. Stir until well combined.
In a casserole dish, spread 1/2 c red sauce along the bottom. Remove eggplant from baking sheet, and place on a flat work surface. Scoop a few tablespoons of ricotta-spread in the middle of each eggplant. Roll up, and place, seam side down, side by side in the casserole dish (they will fit snugly, in two rows of about 8-10 roll-ups). Pour remaining 2 c red sauce over the top, and sprinkle with mozzarella or parmesan. Bake 15-18 minutes, until heated through. Finish under the broiler for 3-4 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
In large sauce pan, heat olive oil over medium. Add garlic, and sauté 3-4 minutes, until garlic begins to brown. Add tomatoes, water (if using) and basil. Cover and simmer at least 2 hours. Season, to taste.