Riceless Sicilian Rice Balls and More Healthy Italian Food Favorites

Arancini (Sicilian rice balls) were a typical meal at my house before weight loss surgery. They are a mixture of meat, sauce, onions, peas and mozzarella sandwiched in a ball of rice, covered in egg and breadcrumbs and deep fried, they look like oranges hence the name arancini (the Italian word for orange is arancia.) I don't do deep-fried or rice (by choice) now. Here's a healthier version of this pre-op favorite with all the flavor but way less fat and simple white carbs...

Shelly's Deconstructed Cauliflower Riceless Sicilian "Rice Balls"

1 small head of Cauliflower
1 Yellow Onion, diced
1/2 Pound Ground Beef
1/4 cup Cooked Peas
1/2 cup Marinara Sauce (I use jarred Rao's, my fav)
dash of Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper
sprinkle of Parmesan and Shredded Mozzarella

Break up the cauliflower into small florets. Pulse the florets in a food processor until reduced to the size of rice grains (about 2 cups worth after whizzing.) Place in a saute pan with a drizzle of olive oil and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, the cauliflower will become slightly golden when it's done.

Saute onion till golden. Set aside. Brown ground beef, drain and discard any fat. Add cooked onions back to pan, peas, sauce and black pepper. Cook till warmed through. Spoon on top of cauliflower "rice" and top with cheese. Soooo good.

Cauliflower not your thing (what's wrong with you?!! just kidding) try this similar dish with zucchini.

Oh and the leftovers heat up great. My bento box lunch with the leftovers...

Pink Box (top left): Shelly's Deconstructed Cauliflower Riceless Sicilian "Rice Balls"
Green Box (top right): Shelly's No Sugar Added Peach and Cherry Crumb
Blue Box (bottom left): Sliced Cucumbers
Orange Box (bottom right): Salt, Pepper and (in the little blue container) Parmesan Cheese

More Bento Box Lunch Ideas, FAQ's and an Online Source

Check out My Healthy Italian Pinterest Page for more Favorite Healthy Italian Recipes.