Involtini di Manzo
(Sicilian Stuffed Beef Rolls)
The robust flavors of the Nero d’Avola complement the savory and slightly sweet elements of the beef rolls, with the wine’s acidity cutting through the richness of the meat and cheese.
INGREDIENTS:
For the filling:
- 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, diced
- ¼ cup golden raisins
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- ½ cup fine breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated pecorino
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
For the involtini:
- 3 ounces provolone cheese
- 12 fresh bay leaves (if unable to find, use dry)
- 12 red onion wedges
- extra-virgin olive oil
- 14 slices (about 1 pound) beef top round, sliced very thin (see cook’s note)
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
DIRECTIONS:
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Make the filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the onion and gently cook until soft and translucent, about 6 minutes. Add in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat and allow mixture to cool.
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Place the raisins and pine nuts in a large bowl. Add in the breadcrumbs and pecorino cheese. Add in the cooled onion/garlic mixture, parsley, salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Stir to combine. Drizzle in the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil and stir until incorporated.
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Make the rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F .
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Have all the components in front of you so you are ready to roll. Cut the provolone crosswise into 14 long sticks about ½ inch thick. (Don’t worry if they break as you can piece together when you roll.) Gather your bay leaves and your onion slices.
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Find a baking dish that will hold the rolls somewhat tightly together, approximately 8 inches by 10 inches will work nicely. Drizzle the bottom generously with olive oil.
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Lay a slice of meat on your work surface and spread about 1 very heaping tablespoon of filling on the meat. Begin to roll the slice and at about the halfway point, add in a stick of provolone cheese. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides and ends to seal the filling inside.
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Place the roll in the baking dish, tuck a slice of onion and a bay leaf alongside. Repeat the process until you have rolled all the meat.
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Drizzle the top of the meat with olive oil. Give it a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bake until the rolls are cooked through and brown on top, about 20 minutes. Serve hot from the oven (but also very tasty at room temperature).
© Recipe courtesy of Our Italian Table.
SEPTEMBER WINE CLUB:

Terra Dives
Riah
Nero d’Avola Siclia DOC
Sicily, Italy
BOLD WINE STYLE
Ruby red with violet hues. Fruity bouquet with clear hints of cherries. In the mouth, it is round, of good structure and with a pleasant acid note.
Varietal: 100% Nero d’Avola Sicilia DOC
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Production Area: Mazara del Vallo, Sicily, Italy
Soil Type: Clayey
Altitude: 150 meters above sea level
Training System: Double cordon
Plants density: 4,000 per hectare
Yield per hectare: 7 tons
Harvest: Manual, second decade of September
Vinification: Destemming, maceration for 10/12 days and fermentation at a temperature of 77ºF in stainless steel tanks
Aging: 3 months in stainless steel tanks, 6 months in tonneaux
Pairing: Pairs well with red meat dishes and mature cheeses
Critical Acclaims: 92 Luca Maroni 2020; 94 Luca Maroni 2019; 94 Luca Maroni 2018.
Serving Temperature: 60.8ºF to 64.4ºF
About the winery:
Terra Dives, established in 2019 in Petrosino (Trapani), is dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage of Sicilian viticulture. With a legacy spanning three generations, the winery expertly blends traditional practices with modern technology to craft exceptional wines that represent the essence of Sicily. Terra Dives is committed to producing and bottling wines that showcase the finest native Sicilian grape varieties, as well as select international ones, all while prioritizing sustainability and staying attuned to evolving market trends. Click here to learn more.
Information & Photos © Terra Dives – All Rights Reserved.
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