Revamp your leftover rice with our mouthwatering Spinach and Cheese Rice Balls! Bursting with savory flavors and wholesome ingredients, these appetizers or midday snacks offer a nutritious twist to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're vegetarian or vegan, we've crafted versatile options to cater to your dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 rice balls
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (or vegan shredded cheese)
- 2 large eggs (or 2 flax eggs: 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed meal + 5 tablespoons water)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray or oil mist for coating (avocado oil for a healthier option)
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced green onions until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes more. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed spinach mixture, mozzarella cheese (or vegan shredded cheese), eggs (or flax eggs), breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast (if using), salt, pepper, fresh parsley, dried oregano, and paprika. Mix well until evenly combined.
- Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes to allow breadcrumbs to absorb moisture and bind the mixture together.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Lightly spray or mist rice balls with cooking spray or oil.
- Place rice balls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry rice balls at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or our homemade tomato sauce.
Kids adore the crispy Spinach and Cheese Rice Balls, perfect for any occasion. Impress your guests or indulge in a wholesome snack with these delightful treats. Even the pickiest eaters will love the savory flavors and crispy texture. Pair them with our main courses for a complete, nutritious meal. Experience the satisfaction of comforting, nourishing dishes made with wholesome ingredients!
Crunchy Mama Tip:
Enhance your experience with our healthy beverages or add a liquid supplement to your dipping sauce for extra nutrients. Pair the Spinach and Cheese Rice Balls with another healthy meal or snack for a wholesome feast.
