33 
0 
Arancini, an Italian delicacy, is a delightful treat loved by people all over the world. These scrumptious rice balls are made by combining cooked rice, cheese, and various seasonings, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried until crispy. While the traditional method involves deep frying, we bring you a healthier version that is just as delicious – oven-baked arancini appetizers. With these easy recipes, you can enjoy this Italian classic without the guilt!
Baked Mozzarella Arancini:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Take about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and form it into a ball. Press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center, then seal the rice around it, forming a ball.
4. Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated. Roll it in breadcrumbs until evenly covered, then place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture.
5. Bake the arancini in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness of these baked mozzarella arancini!
Baked Spinach and Mushroom Arancini:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup spinach, wilted and chopped
– 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1/4 cup bread crumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet, sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic until softened. Add the spinach and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
4. Form the mixture into small balls, about 2 tablespoons each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly to form a disc shape.
5. Bake the arancini in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve these delectable baked spinach and mushroom arancini as a tasty appetizer or even as a side dish. They are sure to impress your guests!
By oven-baking these arancini appetizers instead of deep frying them, you are reducing the amount of oil used while still enjoying the delicious flavors and crunchy texture that makes this Italian dish a favorite. Moreover, baking them in the oven allows you to prepare a larger batch at once, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
So, with these easy recipes at your disposal, there is no need to venture to an Italian restaurant to satisfy your arancini craving. Make a batch of these oven-baked rice balls and indulge in their cheesy goodness right at home. Buon appetito!
0 | 
0