High Protein Classic Italian Arancini Balls

Elevate your appetizer game with these High Protein Classic Italian Arancini Balls—an irresistible twist on the traditional Sicilian favorite. Packed with fluffy, protein-rich quinoa instead of the usual rice, these golden-brown delights boast a melty mozzarella center, a crispy breadcrumb coating, and the savory flavors of Parmesan, garlic, and fresh parsley. Perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, these bite-sized treasures are ideal for entertaining or indulging in a satisfying snack. With a prep time of just 40 minutes and a healthful protein boost, these arancini balls are as nutritious as they are delicious. Serve them warm and crispy for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:40 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Quinoa
• 2 cups Water
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 large Eggs
• 150 grams Fresh mozzarella, cut into cubes
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 500 ml Extra virgin olive oil (for frying)

Directions

Step 1

Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water and then combine it with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium high heat, then reduce to a simmer, and cook, covered, for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.

Step 2

Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3

In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley.

Step 4

Take about 2 tablespoons of the quinoa mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then fold the quinoa mixture around it, rolling it into a ball. Repeat until all the quinoa mixture is used.

Step 5

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, another with 2 beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs.

Step 6

Roll each quinoa ball lightly in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, ensuring each ball is thoroughly covered.

Step 7

In a deep saucepan or skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).

Step 8

Carefully fry the arancini balls in batches, turning occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes each or until they are golden brown on all sides.

Step 9

Once cooked, remove the arancini balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 10

Serve warm as an appetizer or snack, garnished with additional chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1888.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	7396.8

Total Fat 632.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 121.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 559.1mg	0%
Sodium 9525.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 356.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.5g	0%
Total Sugars 21.2g
Protein 143.6g	0%

Vitamin D 82IU	0%
Calcium 1942.0mg	0%
Iron 24.1mg	0%
Potassium 610.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 74.0%

Protein: 7.5%

Carbs: 18.5%