Spring Vegetable Risotto is everything you love about risotto: creamy, rich, and comforting. This version is made with a with fresh herbs and asparagus. It's vibrant flavors of spring in every bite is hearty enough to stand alone as a meal, or pairs well with a protein main dish.
Ingredients
1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup fresh peas, shelled
3 spring onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
2 tbsps butter
2 tbsps extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Vegetables:
In a pot of boiling salted water, blanch the asparagus and peas for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
Prepare the Risotto:
In a separate pot, heat the vegetable broth over low heat and keep it warm.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced spring onions and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the grains with the oil and butter mixture. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Cook the Risotto:
Pour in the white wine, stirring continuously, until it has been absorbed by the rice.
Begin adding the warm vegetable broth to the skillet, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and tender, about 18-20 minutes.
Add the Vegetables:
During the last few minutes of cooking, gently fold in the blanched asparagus and peas, allowing them to heat through in the risotto.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season the risotto with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Remove the risotto from heat and let it rest for a minute or two. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Divide the risotto among plates or bowls and serve immediately, enjoying the vibrant flavors of spring in every bite.