Asparagus Risotto

Asparagus Risotto is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the freshness of spring. Combining tender asparagus with creamy Arborio rice, this risotto offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Asparagus Risotto is not only delicious but also versatile and satisfying. The creamy texture of Arborio rice pairs perfectly with the crispness of fresh asparagus, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. It’s an excellent way to showcase seasonal produce and can be served as a main course or a side dish.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste​Delish KnowledgeGreenPanGlamourWhat’s Gaby Cooking+1Love and Lemons+1Love and Lemons

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.​
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.​Delish Knowledge+1GreenPan+1
3. Stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring each grain is well-coated with the oil. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the rice lightly.​
4. Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until the liquid is fully absorbed.​
5. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 20-25 minutes.​
6. With the final addition of broth, stir in the asparagus pieces. Cook until the asparagus is tender and bright green, approximately 3-5 minutes.​She Loves Biscotti
7. Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.​
8. Serve the risotto immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes​Feasting At Home+11Closet Cooking+11The Guardian+11Love and Lemons+3What’s Gaby Cooking+3The Mediterranean Dish+3Garlic Matters+6The Mediterranean Dish+6Love and Lemons+6

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives for an aromatic touch.
• Cheese Alternatives: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative.
• Protein Addition: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or scallops to make the dish more hearty.
• Mushroom Blend: Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor profile.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the risotto to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore the creamy consistency. Stir continuously until heated through.​

FAQs

How can I make this risotto vegan?

To make the risotto vegan, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. Ensure that the vegetable broth used is also vegan-friendly.​

Can I use a different type of rice?

Arborio rice is preferred for its high starch content, which gives risotto its creamy texture. However, you can use other short-grain rice varieties like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano as alternatives.​La Cucina Italiana

Is it necessary to use white wine?

White wine adds acidity and depth to the risotto. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vegetable broth mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice.​

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The risotto is ready when the rice grains are al dente—tender with a slight bite—and the overall texture is creamy. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes of cooking and stirring.​

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Risotto is best served immediately after cooking. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, cook it until it’s slightly underdone, then cool it quickly. Reheat gently with additional broth before serving.​

What can I serve with asparagus risotto?

Asparagus risotto pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or grilled proteins like chicken or fish.​

How can I add more flavor to the risotto?

Enhance the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a drizzle of truffle oil before serving.​

Can I freeze leftover risotto?

Freezing risotto is not recommended, as it can alter the texture. It’s best to consume leftovers within a few days when stored in the refrigerator.​

How do I prevent the risotto from becoming too thick?

If the risotto thickens too much, add a small amount of warm broth or water while stirring to achieve the desired consistency.​

Is it possible to make this risotto gluten-free?

Yes, this risotto is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that all ingredients used, including the broth and cheese, are certified gluten-free.​

Conclusion

Asparagus Risotto is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of spring. Its creamy texture, combined with the fresh taste of asparagus, makes it a versatile meal suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this risotto is sure to impress.​

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