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

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.

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.