Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsItalXArancini Recipe

Arancini Recipe

Inspired by ItalX
Time1h
Serves4

ARBORIO, FONTINA, MARINARA BASIL-PISTACHIO PESTO

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Ingredients

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Arancini Balls

Method

Arancini Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Arborio Rice

    In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the Arborio rice, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Let it cool.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Mixture

    In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Mix the sautéed onion and garlic with the cooled Arborio rice, add the grated Fontina cheese, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Combine well.

  3. 3

    Form the Balls

    Take a small amount of the rice mixture, about the size of a golf ball, and form it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

  4. 4

    Coat the Balls

    Roll each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure they are fully covered.

  5. 5

    Fry the Arancini

    In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the arancini balls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 6

    Sauté the Base

    In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and aromatic.

  2. 7

    Add Tomatoes and Season

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well and let simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  3. 8

    Finish with Basil

    Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving for a fresh flavor.

Basil-Pistachio Pesto Preparation

  1. 9

    Blend the Ingredients

    In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, shelled pistachios, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.

  2. 10

    Add Olive Oil

    With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

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