Best 3 Quinoa Arancini Recipes

Arancini, also known as Sicilian rice balls, are a classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of rice, cheese, and spices. Quinoa arancini are a healthier take on this classic, using quinoa instead of rice. This gluten-free and protein-packed dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main course. With various fillings and toppings, quinoa arancini offer a delicious and versatile meal that caters to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

AIR-FRYER QUINOA ARANCINI

Air-Fryer Quinoa Arancini image

We love arancini, but they're not the healthiest option! I wanted to make a version that we could enjoy guilt-free. I substituted quinoa for rice and tried baking instead of frying. Now we can have these air-fryer arancini any time. —Sabrina Ovadia, New York, New York

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Appetizers

Time 25m

Yield 3 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 package (9 ounces) ready-to-serve quinoa or 1-3/4 cups cooked quinoa
2 large eggs, lightly beaten, divided use
1 cup seasoned bread crumbs, divided
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
6 cubes part-skim mozzarella cheese (3/4 inch each)
Cooking spray
Warmed pasta sauce, optional

Steps:

Preheat air fryer to 375°. Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Stir in 1 egg, 1/2 cup bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, oil, basil and seasonings., Divide into 6 portions. Shape each portion around a cheese cube to cover completely, forming a ball. , Place remaining egg and 1/2 cup bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls. Dip quinoa balls in egg, then roll in bread crumbs. Place on greased tray in air-fryer basket; spritz with cooking spray. Cook until golden brown, 6-8 minutes. If desired, serve with pasta sauce.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 423 calories, Fat 19g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 142mg cholesterol, Sodium 1283mg sodium, Carbohydrate 40g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 21g protein.

QUINOA ARANCINI

Quinoa Arancini image

We love arancini, but they're not the healthiest thing going! I wanted to make a version that we could enjoy guilt-free. I substituted quinoa for rice and tried baking instead of frying. Now we can have them any time. -Sabrina Ovadia, New York, New York

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Appetizers

Time 30m

Yield 3 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 package (9 ounces) ready-to-serve quinoa or 1-3/4 cups cooked quinoa
2 large eggs, lightly beaten, divided use
1 cup seasoned bread crumbs, divided
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
6 cubes part-skim mozzarella cheese (3/4 inch each)
Cooking spray
Warmed pasta sauce, optional

Steps:

Preheat oven to 425°. Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Stir in 1 egg, 1/2 cup bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, oil, basil and seasonings., Divide into 6 portions. Shape each portion around a cheese cube to cover completely, forming a ball. , Place remaining egg and 1/2 cup bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls. Dip quinoa balls in egg, then roll in bread crumbs. Place on a greased 15x10x1-in. baking pan; spritz with cooking spray. Bake until golden brown, 15-20 minutes. If desired, serve with pasta sauce.

QUINOA ARANCINI

Quinoa Arancini image

Make and share this Quinoa Arancini recipe from Food.com.

Provided by thebeeskitchen

Categories Grains

Time 1h10m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons dried basil
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1/4 cup of shredded parmesan cheese
1 cup of flavored breadcrumbs
1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small bites
2 eggs, beaten

Steps:

In a large bowl, mix the quinoa with the spices, olive oil and Parmesan. With wet hands form a small ball, about 2 inches diameter and insert inside a small piece of mozarella. Cover up the whole to completely close the arancini. Coat it in the eggs then in the breadcrumbs.
Heat up the oven to 400 and bake for 30-35. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 198.7, Fat 10.2, SaturatedFat 4.3, Cholesterol 80.4, Sodium 1500.7, Carbohydrate 15.9, Fiber 1.5, Sugar 1.5, Protein 10.8

Tips:

Choose the right type of quinoa: Use white quinoa for a light and fluffy texture, or red or black quinoa for a chewier texture.
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking: This will remove any bitter saponins from the quinoa.
Cook the quinoa according to package directions: Be sure to use the correct ratio of quinoa to water.
Let the quinoa cool completely before using it: This will help the arancini hold their shape.
Use a variety of fillings: You can use any type of filling you like, such as cheese, vegetables, or meat.
Be careful not to overfill the arancini: Too much filling will make them difficult to fry.
Fry the arancini until they are golden brown and crispy: This will ensure that they are cooked through.
Serve the arancini with your favorite dipping sauce: Marinara sauce, pesto, or aioli are all great options.

Conclusion:

Quinoa arancini are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack. They are easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With a few simple tips, you can make perfect quinoa arancini every time. So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try today!