Hors d'œuvres

facing fears.creamy lemon risotto w. peas, asparagus & parmesan

by Caroline Stegner

Jump To Recipe
Jump to Recipe
IMG_3433
nom,
nom,
nom

Up until now, I’ve been too scared to make risotto (silly, I know). I assumed my attempt would result in a mushy disaster, even though I’ve watched my mom cook the rice over a dozen times.

But good news, it turned out just right! The risotto was al dente, creamy and full of flavor, with a slight tang from the lemon zest. I made enough to feed me for an entire week, so whoever wants to come over for dinner, please do!

IMG_3399

IMG_3422

And then Theo decided to photo bomb…

from Caroline’s kitchen

creamy lemon risotto w. peas, asparagus & parmesan

ingredients

  • 6 cups canned low-salt chicken broth
  • 3½ tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1½ tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 large shallots, finely chopped
  • 2 cups arborio rice
  • ¼ cup dry white wine
  • ½ - ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of two medium lemons
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 10-15 stalks asparagus, steamed and chopped into 1-inch pieces

directions

  1. Bring chicken broth to simmer in large pot over medium heat. Reduce heat to low; cover to keep warm.
  2. Melt 1½ tbsp. butter with olive oil in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots and sauté until tender, about 6 minutes. Add rice; stir 1 minute. Add wine and stir until evaporated, about 30 seconds. Add 1½ cups hot broth; simmer until absorbed, stirring frequently. Add remaining broth ½ cup at a time, allowing broth to be absorbed before adding more and stirring frequently until rice is creamy and tender, about 35-45 minutes.
  3. Stir in cheese and remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Then add parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, peas and asparagus.
  4. Season risotto with salt and pepper. Transfer to bowl and serve hot or warm.