Spring Asparagus Risotto Recipe

Spring is the season for fresh, crisp, and delicious asparagus. This spring asparagus risotto recipe brings out the very best flavors of the season. The dish is creamy, hearty, and full of bright asparagus flavor. It’s a perfect dish to serve at a spring dinner party or for a comforting weeknight meal.

Photos of Spring Asparagus Risotto Recipe

The key ingredients for this recipe are Arborio rice and thin asparagus spears. Arborio rice is an Italian short-grain rice. It is known for its ability to absorb flavors and for its creamy texture when cooked, which makes it perfect for Risotto. As for the asparagus, the thin spears are preferred for this recipe due to their tender texture and sweet flavor. You can easily find both these ingredients in the rice and produce sections respectively at your local supermarket.

Spring Asparagus Risotto Ingredients

Low-sodium chicken broth: The base of the risotto, adding depth and flavor to the rice.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the shallots and rice.

Shallots: Adds a mild, delicate flavor to the dish.

Arborio rice: This is the star ingredient that gives risotto its creamy texture.

Dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth to the dish.

Thin asparagus spears: The hero of this spring recipe, providing a fresh and crisp element.

Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and a hint of acidity.

Fresh parsley: Provides a fresh and herbaceous flavor.

Parmigiano-Reggiano: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and creamy texture.

Salt and fresh cracked pepper: For seasoning.

Lemon zest: Gives the dish a refreshing citrusy finish.

One reader, Jaquelin Ackley says:

This spring asparagus risotto recipe is a game-changer! The creamy texture and vibrant flavors of asparagus and lemon make it a delightful dish. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a restaurant-quality meal. I highly recommend it for a fresh and satisfying springtime dinner.

Jaquelin Ackley

Techniques Required for Spring Asparagus Risotto

How to prepare asparagus: Trim off the tough ends of the asparagus spears and cut them into 1-inch pieces.

How to sauté shallots: In a large heavy saucepan over medium heat, heat the oil and add the shallots; sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they are soft and translucent.

How to cook risotto: Add a ladleful of the simmering stock to the rice, stir, and wait until it is absorbed before adding another ladleful, stirring gently and almost constantly. Continue this process until the rice is creamy, tender to the bite but slightly firm in the center.

How to incorporate asparagus into risotto: Add the asparagus along with the last ladle of broth and continue cooking for 5 minutes, ensuring the asparagus is tender but still vibrant green.

How to finish risotto: When all the liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and parmigiano-reggiano.

How to serve risotto: Serve immediately and top with fresh cracked pepper, lemon zest, and extra grated cheese if desired.

How To Make Spring Asparagus Risotto

Have a zesty meal with this creamy spring asparagus risotto meal. Cooked with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and zest, and optional seafood toppings.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4½cupslow-sodium chicken,or vegetable broth
2tspolive oil
⅓cupshallots,chopped
1cuparborio rice
2ozdry white wine
¾lbthin asparagus spears,tough ends trimmed, cut 2-inch long
2tspfresh lemon juice
¼cupfresh parsley,chopped
¼cupParmigiano-Reggiano,freshly grated, plus more for serving
salt and fresh cracked pepper,to taste
1tsplemon zest,grated, for garnish

Instructions

In a large saucepan, heat broth over medium-high heat.
When it boils, reduce heat to a simmer and maintain over low heat, taste for salt, and adjust as needed.
In a large heavy saucepan over medium heat, heat the oil and add the shallots; sauté 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the rice; mix well so the rice is coated throughout and saute until the rice is slightly translucent for about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the wine and stir until it is absorbed.
Add a ladleful of the simmering stock; stir and wait until it is absorbed before adding another ladleful stirring gently and almost constantly.
Continue this process until the rice is creamy, tender to the bite but slightly firm in the center.
Add the asparagus along with the last ladle of broth and continue cooking for 5 minutes, total time should be about 25 to 30 minutes from the time you started.
When all the liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Serve immediately and top with fresh cracked pepper, lemon zest, and extra grated cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 616.87kcal
Fat: 28.82g
Saturated Fat: 8.75g
Trans Fat: 0.15g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.51g
Carbohydrates: 46.92g
Fiber: 4.05g
Sugar: 2.98g
Protein: 38.32g
Cholesterol: 124.45mg
Sodium: 789.29mg
Calcium: 166.34mg
Potassium: 608.44mg
Iron: 5.98mg
Vitamin A: 132.21µg
Vitamin C: 14.97mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Spring Asparagus Risotto

When preparing your asparagus, ensure to snap off the tough ends. Hold the asparagus spear on each end and bend until it snaps. It naturally breaks where the spear starts to get tough. This will ensure that your asparagus is tender and enjoyable in your risotto.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Spring Asparagus Risotto

Prep ahead: Chop the shallots, asparagus, and parsley in advance to save time during the cooking process.

Organize ingredients: Measure out all the ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Multi-task: While the risotto is cooking, prepare a simple side salad or appetizer to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Efficient stirring: Stir the risotto gently and consistently to ensure even cooking and creaminess without spending excessive time at the stove.

Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize post-cooking cleanup, making the overall process more efficient and enjoyable.

Substitute Ingredients For Spring Asparagus Risotto Recipe

low-sodium chicken - Substitute with low-sodium vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar depth of flavor and richness to the risotto without the use of chicken broth.
arborio rice - Substitute with carnaroli rice: Carnaroli rice has a similar creamy texture and ability to absorb liquid, making it a suitable substitute for arborio rice in risotto recipes.
dry white wine - Substitute with dry vermouth: Dry vermouth can be used as a substitute for dry white wine in cooking, providing a similar depth of flavor and acidity to the dish.
thin asparagus spears - Substitute with green beans: Green beans can be used as a substitute for asparagus, providing a similar crunch and vibrant color to the risotto.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh chives: Fresh chives can add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the risotto, similar to the role of fresh parsley.
parmigiano-reggiano - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for parmigiano-reggiano, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor to the risotto.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can add a citrusy aroma and flavor to the risotto, similar to the role of lemon zest.

Best Way to Present Spring Asparagus Risotto

Elevate the asparagus: Gently blanch the asparagus to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Arrange the asparagus spears in a delicate and artistic manner on top of the risotto, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with lemon zest: Finely grate fresh lemon zest over the finished dish to add a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma, enhancing the overall sensory experience for the diners.
Create a Parmigiano-Reggiano tuile: Craft a delicate and crispy Parmigiano-Reggiano tuile to adorn the risotto. The tuile adds a sophisticated touch and a delightful crunch, elevating the texture of the dish.
Drizzle with olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a high-quality olive oil over the risotto. The glistening sheen and rich flavor of the olive oil will enhance the overall taste and visual appeal of the dish.
Use microgreens as a finishing touch: Sprinkle a few vibrant microgreens over the risotto to add a fresh and delicate herbal note, creating a visually stunning and elegant finishing touch.

Essential Tools for Making Asparagus Risotto

Large saucepan: A large, heavy-bottomed pot used for cooking risotto and other dishes that require simmering and stirring.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for stirring and serving risotto.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving the simmering broth and stirring the risotto.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate the parmigiano-reggiano cheese and lemon zest for garnishing the risotto.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for chopping the shallots, parsley, and trimming the asparagus spears.
Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients such as asparagus and shallots.
Wooden spoon: A cooking utensil used for stirring the risotto while it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Citrus juicer: A tool used to extract fresh lemon juice for adding a bright, citrusy flavor to the risotto.
Zester: A kitchen tool used to create fine shreds of lemon zest for adding a burst of citrus aroma and flavor to the dish.

How To Store and Freeze Asparagus Risotto

Let the risotto cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the risotto and reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
To freeze, portion the cooled risotto into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. Label and date the containers before placing them in the freezer.
Frozen risotto can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the risotto overnight in the refrigerator.
Place the thawed risotto in a saucepan and reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Note: The texture of the risotto may change slightly after freezing and reheating, as the rice tends to absorb more liquid. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or water as needed.

How To Reheat Leftover Asparagus Risotto

Reheat the risotto in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking and burning. If the risotto seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it up and restore its creamy texture.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover risotto in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the risotto is heated through and steaming.
To add a crispy texture to your leftover risotto, try forming it into small patties and pan-frying them in a bit of olive oil or butter until golden brown and crispy on both sides. This method works particularly well if your risotto has dried out slightly in the refrigerator.
If you have a bit more time, you can also reheat your risotto in the oven. Transfer the risotto to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to crisp up slightly.
For a fresh twist on leftover risotto, try stirring in some additional vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, peas, or roasted bell peppers. This will not only add new flavors and textures to the dish but also help to bulk it up and make it more satisfying.

Random Fact About Spring Asparagus Risotto

Asparagus is a member of the lily family and is related to onions, leeks, and garlic. It is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads to risottos.

Is Making Asparagus Risotto at Home Economical?

The spring asparagus risotto recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as asparagus and arborio rice, are reasonably priced and can be found in most grocery stores. The addition of parmigiano-reggiano and dry white wine may increase the overall cost, but these ingredients can be used in various other dishes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 8/10. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a worthwhile investment for a satisfying meal.

Is This Spring Risotto Healthy or Unhealthy?

This spring asparagus risotto recipe is a relatively healthy dish with several nutritious ingredients. The asparagus provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the parmesan cheese adds protein and calcium. The use of low-sodium chicken broth helps control the dish's salt content. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe relies on white arborio rice, which is less nutritious than whole grain alternatives like brown rice or quinoa. These options would increase the fiber content and provide more vitamins and minerals.
The dish contains a significant amount of parmesan cheese, which is high in saturated fat and sodium. Reducing the cheese or using a low-fat alternative could help make the risotto healthier.
While the recipe uses olive oil, which is a healthy fat, the quantity could be reduced to lower the overall calorie count.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this risotto, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate additional vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use a whole grain alternative to arborio rice, such as brown rice, quinoa, or farro, to boost the fiber and complex carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of parmesan cheese or opt for a low-fat alternative to decrease the saturated fat and sodium content
Experiment with using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the dish vegetarian-friendly and potentially lower in sodium
Add lean proteins like shrimp, chicken, or tofu to increase the protein content and make the risotto more satiating

Editor's Thoughts on This Asparagus Risotto Recipe

The spring asparagus risotto recipe is a delightful combination of creamy arborio rice, tender asparagus, and bright flavors. The cooking process is well-explained, ensuring the rice is perfectly cooked and the flavors are well-balanced. The addition of lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing touch, while the parmigiano-reggiano brings a rich, savory note. This dish is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of spring and would make a delightful addition to any meal.

Enhance Your Spring Asparagus Risotto Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then roast until crispy and golden brown.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sauté carrots in a honey and thyme glaze until tender and caramelized, then sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate chicken in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then grill until juicy and charred for a perfect pairing with the creamy risotto.

Berry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: Toss fresh berries and baby spinach with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, then sprinkle with toasted nuts for a refreshing and vibrant side salad.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: Simmer coconut milk and rice with sweet mango chunks until thick and creamy, then chill for a tropical and indulgent dessert to end the meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Spring Asparagus Risotto

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots, it's a comforting meal that will warm you up.

Zesty Lemon Chicken: This zesty lemon chicken recipe is bursting with flavor. The tangy lemon marinade infuses the chicken with a bright, citrusy taste that pairs perfectly with fresh herbs and roasted vegetables.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy mushroom risotto, made with Arborio rice and a medley of flavorful mushrooms. It's a rich and satisfying dish that's perfect for a special dinner at home.

Fresh Berry Tart: Treat yourself to a delightful fresh berry tart, featuring a buttery crust and a luscious pastry cream filling. Topped with a colorful array of fresh berries, it's a beautiful and delicious dessert for any occasion.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for an Asparagus Risotto Meal

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Indulge in these crispy zucchini fritters, served with a creamy dipping sauce for a delightful start to your meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying parfait that's perfect for a light and healthy dessert option.

Why trust this Spring Asparagus Risotto Recipe:

This #food# recipe is a testament to #fresh# and #seasonal# ingredients. The #asparagus# is a vibrant and #nutrient-rich# addition, while the #arborio rice# creates a creamy and luxurious texture. The use of #dry white wine# adds depth of flavor, and the #fresh lemon juice# and #zest# provide a bright and zesty finish. With the #parmigiano-reggiano# and #fresh parsley#, this #risotto# is a harmonious blend of #flavors# and #textures#. Trust in the #quality# and #balance# of these ingredients to deliver a truly delightful #culinary# experience.

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FAQ:

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth in this recipe. It will still provide a delicious base for the risotto.

Can I use a different type of rice for this risotto?

While arborio rice is the traditional choice for risotto due to its creamy texture, you can also use other short-grain rice varieties such as carnaroli or vialone nano.

How can I tell when the risotto is ready?

The risotto is ready when it is creamy, tender to the bite, but still slightly firm in the center. It should have a smooth, velvety texture.

Can I prepare the asparagus in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the asparagus in advance by trimming and cutting it into pieces, then storing it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it in the recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While risotto is best served immediately for optimal texture, you can prepare the components in advance and then reheat and assemble the dish just before serving. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different when reheated.