Best Easy Risotto agli Asparagi Recipe

Spring asparagus risotto with its bright green hue celebrates the season's finest produce. This vegetarian mediterranean dish is fresh, healthy, and a light family dinner packed with vitamins.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 355 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • arborio rice 1.5 cups
  • asparagus 1 lb
  • yellow onion 1 small
  • vegetable broth 5 cups
  • Parmesan cheese 0.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 3 tbsp
  • unsalted butter 2 tbsp
  • sea salt 1 tsp
  • freshly ground black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 52 g 58%
Protein 9 g 10%
Fat 11 g 32%
Serving size 270g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Trim the woody ends off the asparagus, then cut the stalks into 1-inch pieces; set aside the tender tips separately.

  2. 2

    In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer and keep it warm over low heat; do not boil.

  3. 3

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large, straight-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent without browning.

  4. 4

    Stir in the arborio rice and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat each grain with oil and develop a nutty aroma.

  5. 5

    Add the asparagus stems (not tips) and cook for 2 more minutes, then add 1/2 cup of hot broth, stirring gently. Allow the rice to absorb nearly all the liquid before adding the next ladle of broth.

  6. 6

    Continue adding broth in small additions, stirring regularly and maintaining a gentle simmer; after 12 minutes, add the asparagus tips and keep cooking.

  7. 7

    After about 18–20 minutes, when the rice is creamy but still al dente and the asparagus is tender, remove from heat.

  8. 8

    Stir in the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cover and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this risotto recipe?
The essential ingredient is arborio rice, prized for its ability to release starch and create the signature creamy texture of risotto. Asparagus is also vital, adding freshness and a distinctly spring-like flavor.
Q. Why should I keep the broth hot while making risotto?
Keeping the vegetable broth hot ensures each addition absorbs quickly without lowering the temperature, allowing the rice to cook evenly and develop a creamy consistency.
Q. How can I prevent the risotto from becoming mushy?
Stirring consistently, adding broth gradually, and cooking the rice until just al dente are all important steps. Remove from heat while the rice still has a slight bite, as it will continue to soften off the stovetop.
Q. How many calories and how much protein are in a serving?
Each 270g serving contains approximately 355 kcal, with 9g of protein, 52g of carbohydrates, and 11g of fat. This makes it a light vegetarian dish, moderate in calories and protein.
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