Spinach Rice Balls
Delightful spinach rice balls combine tender cooked rice, savory spinach, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan, baked to golden perfection—perfect for a nutritious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Arrange the balls on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try using brown rice instead of white rice. You can also substitute the Mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free alternative if you're looking for vegan options. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid soggy rice balls. If you want a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spinach rice balls as a delightful appetizer or snack; they pair beautifully with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh Apple-Nut Toss Salad or a simple green salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Rice Balls contains roughly 92 calories, with 5g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach, but you'll need to cook it down and drain it well to achieve the same consistency as frozen. About 1 cup of fresh spinach should be sufficient.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
How can I make these gluten-free?
To make gluten-free spinach rice balls, use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of regular ones. Ensure all other ingredients, like the cheese and mustard, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).