Air-Fryer Quinoa Arancini

  Appetizers

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.

Air-Fryer Quinoa Arancini

Average Rating: 0

TOTAL TIME: Prep/Total Time: 25 min.
YIELD: 3 servings.

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

Instructions

  • 1. 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.
  • 2. Divide into 6 portions. Shape each portion around a cheese cube to cover completely, forming a ball.
  • 3. 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

2 arancini: 423 calories, 19g fat (6g saturated fat), 142mg cholesterol, 1283mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 21g protein.

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