Spinach Rice Balls

Spinach Rice Balls Recipe - Delicious and Nutritious

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 12

Introduction

Spinach Rice Balls are a delicious and nutritious appetizer or side dish that are perfect for any occasion. These savory balls are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The exact origins of Spinach Rice Balls are unknown, but they are believed to have originated in Italy. These tasty treats are a popular dish in many Italian households and are often served at parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

1.5 cups cooked rice
1 x 10 oz (283 g) package of frozen chopped spinach, well drained*
0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
0.33 cup dry breadcrumbs
1 x 1.3 oz (37 g) envelope of golden onion soup mix
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 eggs, beaten
0.25 cup milk
1 tsp dijon-style mustard

How to prepare

In a large mixing bowl, combine rice, spinach, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, soup mix, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, and mustard.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a well-greased baking sheet.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Serve warm.

Variations

Add in cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique twist.
Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added color and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the frozen spinach well to remove excess moisture and prevent the rice balls from becoming too soggy.

- You can customize this recipe by adding in your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning.

- For a crispy exterior, you can also try frying the rice balls in a pan with a little bit of oil instead of baking them.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spinach Rice Balls as an appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping, or as a side dish alongside a main course.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen, just make sure to cook it down and drain it well before adding it to the mixture.

- If you don't have golden onion soup mix, you can use a combination of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and salt as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Spinach Rice Balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them. They can also be frozen and reheated later.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spinach Rice Balls on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spinach Rice Balls with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spinach Rice Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spinach Rice Balls contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spinach Rice Balls contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spinach Rice Balls contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Spinach Rice Balls contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach Rice Balls are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and eggs.

Summary

Spinach Rice Balls are a well-rounded dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Spinach Rice Balls are a tasty and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful interior, these savory balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her small village in Italy. Maria was a fantastic cook, and I always loved spending time in her kitchen, watching her create mouthwatering dishes with ease and grace.

On this particular day, Maria was preparing a feast for a family gathering, and I offered to help her in the kitchen. As we chopped vegetables and stirred pots, she suddenly pulled out a worn, stained piece of paper from her apron pocket.

"Have you ever tried making spinach rice balls, my dear?" Maria asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I shook my head, intrigued by the sound of the dish. Maria explained that it was a traditional recipe from her grandmother, passed down through generations in her family. She then proceeded to guide me through the process, showing me how to mix cooked rice with sautéed spinach, garlic, and cheese, shaping the mixture into small balls, and frying them until crispy and golden.

The smell that wafted from the pan as the rice balls sizzled was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result. When Maria placed a plate of the crispy, golden balls in front of me, I took a bite and was instantly transported to food heaven. The combination of the creamy rice and the earthy spinach was simply divine, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

Maria laughed at my enthusiasm and promised to write down the recipe for me before I left. As I packed my bags to head back home, she handed me the piece of paper with a smile, knowing that I would treasure it and share the recipe with my own loved ones.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in trying my hand at making spinach rice balls. As I followed Maria's instructions, memories of our time in her kitchen flooded back, and I felt a deep sense of connection to her and her family. The aroma of garlic and spinach filled my own kitchen, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made spinach rice balls countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. I have served them at family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties, always to rave reviews. Each time I make them, I am reminded of Maria and the special bond we share through our love of cooking and sharing food with others.

As I sit here now, penning this story and reminiscing about the day I learned to make spinach rice balls, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my love and creativity, and I am grateful for the recipes and techniques that have been passed down to me through the generations.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a delicious and unique dish to impress your friends and family, look no further than spinach rice balls. This recipe is not just about food; it is about tradition, love, and the joy of sharing a meal with those you hold dear. And who knows, maybe one day you will pass it on to someone special, just as Maria did for me. Bon appétit!