Vegan Jack o’ Lantern Butternut Squash Arancini

Delicious vegan risotto arancini balls with adorable Jack-o-lantern faces for Halloween. The ideal dish to serve at a spooktacular Halloween party!

Ingredients

For the butternut squash filling

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup vegan creamer or coconut milk
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional for a cheesy flavor)

For the Arancini

• 2 cups cooked Arborio rice (cooled)
• 1/2 cup vegan mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use vegan breadcrumbs if desired)
• 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal mixed with 4 tablespoons water (as a binder)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil for frying

Instructions

Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Spread the seasoned squash on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. Transfer the roasted squash to a blender or food processor, add the vegan creamer or coconut milk, and nutritional yeast (if using). Blend until smooth. Adjust seasonings if necessary.

Make the Arancini

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked Arborio rice, vegan mozzarella cheese, vegan parmesan cheese, and the flaxseed meal mixture. Mix well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Arancini

1. Take a small handful of the rice mixture and flatten it in your palm.
2. Add a spoonful of the butternut squash puree in the center.
3. Carefully encase the squash with the rice mixture and shape it into a ball. Repeat this step until all the arancini are formed.

Coat and Fry

1. Roll each arancini ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the arancini and fry until they are golden brown on all sides. It should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the arancini from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
4. Serve the Jack o’ Lantern Butternut Squash Vegan Arancini while they’re still warm, with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 170
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 3g