Lemon Zest Asparagus and Leek Risotto
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Lemon Zest Asparagus and Leek Risotto, a delightful dish that combines the tender flavors of asparagus and leeks with the richness of arborio rice. Perfectly cooked to a luxurious consistency, this risotto is enhanced with fresh lemon juice and zest, giving it a bright, refreshing twist. It's not only a beautiful addition to your dinner table but also a comforting meal that's great for sharing with family and friends. This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables while providing a source of comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
4
Servings
160
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Asparagus
3/4 lb (Trimmed)
Extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Leeks
1 1/2 cups (sliced (white and light green parts only))
Arborio rice
1 cup
Chicken broth
3 cups
Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (freshly grated)
Fresh parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon
Coarse black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Lemon
1 (sliced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2
Prepare the asparagus by arranging it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush the asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until crisp-tender. Once done, allow to cool slightly, then cut two-thirds of the asparagus into 2-inch pieces, setting them aside for later.
3
While the asparagus is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook until tender, approximately 5 minutes.
4
Stir in the uncooked arborio rice into the leeks, cooking and stirring for another 5 minutes until the rice begins to turn a golden color.
5
In a separate saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
6
Carefully add 1 cup of the hot broth to the rice mixture, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed. Continue adding the broth 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently, waiting for the broth to absorb each time before adding more. This process should take around 22 minutes in total.
7
When the rice is creamy and tender, stir in any remaining broth. Add the reserved asparagus pieces, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, and freshly ground pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors.
8
To serve, plate the risotto and top with the reserved whole asparagus spears and a few slices of fresh lemon.
Nutrition Information
6.25g
Fat
21.25g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Zest Asparagus and Leek Risotto?
It is a creamy Italian rice dish featuring tender asparagus, sautéed leeks, arborio rice, and a refreshing burst of lemon zest and juice.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What type of rice is recommended for this risotto?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of arborio rice, which is essential for achieving the characteristic creamy texture.
How do I prepare the asparagus for this dish?
Trim 3/4 lb of asparagus, roast it at 450°F for 10 minutes, and then cut two-thirds of it into 2-inch pieces while keeping the rest whole for garnish.
What parts of the leeks should be used?
You should use 1 1/2 cups of sliced leeks, specifically the white and light green parts only.
How long does it take to roast the asparagus?
The asparagus should be roasted in a preheated oven at 450°F for approximately 10 minutes until it is crisp-tender.
What is the first step in cooking the rice?
After cooking the leeks in olive oil, stir in the arborio rice and cook for about 5 minutes until it begins to turn a golden color.
How much chicken broth is needed for the recipe?
A total of 3 cups of chicken broth is required for this risotto.
What is the correct way to add broth to the risotto?
Add the hot broth gradually, starting with 1 cup and then 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently until each portion is absorbed before adding more.
How long does the total broth absorption process take?
The process of adding broth and stirring should take approximately 22 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
While the recipe lists chicken broth, you can easily substitute it with vegetable broth to make it a vegetarian-friendly meal.
What are the nutritional values per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 160 calories, 6.25g of fat, 21.25g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein.
How much Parmesan cheese is added to the dish?
The recipe includes 1/3 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
What role does lemon play in this risotto?
Lemon is used in three ways: 1/2 teaspoon of zest and 1 tablespoon of juice are stirred in at the end, and lemon slices are used for garnish.
How should I garnish the Lemon Zest Asparagus and Leek Risotto?
Serve the risotto topped with the reserved whole roasted asparagus spears and a few fresh lemon slices.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 450°F (230°C) for roasting the asparagus.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 ingredients in total, including vegetables, rice, liquids, and seasonings.
What herbs are used for flavoring?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.
Should the chicken broth be cold or hot when added to the rice?
The chicken broth should be brought to a boil and then kept at a simmer so it is hot when added to the rice mixture.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 6.25 grams of fat in each serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a single serving?
Each serving contains 21.25 grams of carbohydrates.
What type of oil is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifies using 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Does this risotto contain black pepper?
Yes, it uses both freshly ground pepper for roasting the asparagus and 1/4 teaspoon of coarse black pepper added at the end.
Is there a specific preparation for the leeks?
Yes, the leeks should be sliced, using only the white and light green parts.
How long do the leeks need to cook?
The sliced leeks should be sautéed in olive oil for approximately 5 minutes until they become tender.
When should the Parmesan cheese be added?
The Parmesan cheese should be stirred in at the very end once the rice is creamy and tender.
What should the rice look like before adding the broth?
The arborio rice should be stirred with the leeks for about 5 minutes until it begins to turn a golden color.
How do I know when the risotto is finished?
The risotto is ready when the rice is creamy and tender and all the broth has been absorbed.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor and zest, bottled juice can be used if fresh lemons are unavailable.
Is this dish considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a comforting and satisfying meal that is great for sharing with family and friends.