Garden Risotto

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Flexibility: Utilize a variety of vegetables to suit the season, such as peas, asparagus, or bell peppers.
• Creamy Texture: The slow addition of broth to arborio rice results in a rich and creamy consistency without the need for heavy cream.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables, this risotto offers a good source of vitamins and minerals.
• Satisfying: The combination of rice and vegetables makes for a hearty and fulfilling meal.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1½ cups uncooked arborio rice
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Onion: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Toast the Rice: Stir in arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
3. Deglaze with Broth: Pour in vegetable broth, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed.
4. Add Broth Gradually: Begin adding chicken broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladleful. Continue this process until the rice is tender and creamy, about 18-20 minutes.
5. Incorporate Vegetables: Stir in thawed peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Finish the Risotto: Once the rice is cooked and the consistency is creamy, remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Spoon the risotto onto serving plates, garnish with additional Parmesan if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Choices: Incorporate other vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or spinach to suit your taste and seasonal availability.
• Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.
• Herb Enhancement: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme during the last few minutes of cooking for added aroma and flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth and substitute Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Risotto can be frozen for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to reach desired consistency. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use regular rice instead of arborio rice?

Arborio rice is preferred for its high starch content, which gives risotto its characteristic creamy texture. Using regular rice may result in a different consistency.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The risotto is ready when the rice is al dente—tender but still slightly firm to the bite—and the consistency is creamy.

Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best served immediately after cooking. However, if you need to make it ahead, undercook it slightly and reheat with additional broth to restore creaminess.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

Is risotto gluten-free?

Yes, when made with arborio rice and gluten-free broth, risotto is naturally gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to ensure suitability for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

Garden Risotto is a versatile and comforting dish that showcases the delightful combination of creamy rice and fresh vegetables. Its adaptability allows you to tailor the ingredients to your preferences and the seasons, making it a staple in any kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, this risotto is sure to satisfy and impress.

Garden Risotto

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• Author: Paula
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Garden Risotto is a delightful and versatile dish that combines creamy arborio rice with a medley of fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious and flavorful choice for any meal. This recipe allows for customization based on seasonal produce and personal preferences, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.

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Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1½ cups uncooked arborio rice
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Onion:

   • In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Toast the Rice:

   • Stir in the arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.

3. Deglaze with Broth:

   • Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed by the rice.

4. Add Broth Gradually:

   • Begin adding chicken broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladleful.
   • Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and creamy.

5. Incorporate Vegetables:

   • Stir in the thawed peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

6. Finish the Risotto:

   • Once the rice is cooked and the consistency is creamy, remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve:

   • Spoon the risotto onto serving plates, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

• Vegetable Choices: Incorporate other vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or spinach to suit your taste and seasonal availability.
• Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.
• Herb Enhancement: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme in the final few minutes of cooking for added aroma and flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth and substitute Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian