Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, game night, or simply want to indulge in a tasty snack, arancini is the perfect appetizer option that is sure to impress your guests. These Italian rice balls are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with flavors that will leave everyone craving for more. And the best part? You can easily make them in your oven, no deep frying required! Here are three scrumptious arancini recipes to try for any occasion.
1. Classic Mozzarella Arancini:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked risotto rice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked risotto rice with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Take a small amount of rice mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a mozzarella cube in the center and shape the rice around it into a ball.
4. Dip the rice ball into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Repeat the process with the remaining rice mixture and mozzarella cubes.
6. Bake the arancini in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
2. Spinach and Feta Arancini:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked risotto rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup cooked spinach, excess water squeezed out
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked risotto rice, crumbled feta cheese, and cooked spinach. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a ball or a cylinder.
4. Dip the rice ball into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Repeat the process with the remaining rice mixture.
6. Bake the arancini in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
3. Mushroom and Truffle Oil Arancini:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked risotto rice
– 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Truffle mayo for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a pan, sauté the chopped mushrooms with truffle oil until cooked and slightly browned. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked risotto rice with sautéed mushrooms and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Shape the mixture into small balls or cylinders.
5. Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining rice mixture.
7. Bake the arancini in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve hot with a side of truffle mayo for dipping.
These oven-baked arancini recipes are incredibly versatile and can be customized according to your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as meat, veggies, or even cheese combinations. No matter the occasion, these appetizers are certain to be a hit and leave everyone asking for more of these delicious Italian treats!