Lemon Zest Risotto with Peas and Crispy Prosciutto
Experience a delightful twist on traditional risotto with this creamy Lemon Zest Risotto, featuring sweet green peas and crispy prosciutto. The combination of perfectly cooked arborio rice infused with rich chicken broth and a splash of dry white wine creates a luscious texture that's simply irresistible. Each bite is enhanced by fresh lemon zest, which brightens the dish, while the delicate crunch of prosciutto adds depth and savory richness. Ideal for an elegant dinner or a cozy family gathering, this risotto is sure to impress and satisfy. Serve it as a standout main course or a sumptuous side dish, and relish in the compliments that follow.
6
Servings
200
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken broth
5 cups (warmed)
onion
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
unsalted butter
1/4 cup (divided (2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons))
arborio rice
1 1/2 cups (12 ounces)
dry white wine
1/2 cup
frozen peas
1 cup (thawed)
prosciutto
2 ounces (julienned)
lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon (grated)
Parmesan cheese
1 cup (grated, divided)
parsley
3 tablespoons (finely chopped)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low to keep it warm throughout the cooking process.
2
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over moderate heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3
Stir in the arborio rice and toast it for 1 minute, stirring continuously to coat the grains with butter.
4
Pour in the dry white wine, stirring well, and allow it to simmer until completely absorbed by the rice.
5
Start adding the warmed chicken broth to the rice, one cup at a time, stirring constantly. Allow each addition to be fully absorbed before adding the next. This process should take about 18 to 20 minutes, resulting in a creamy consistency where the rice is al dente.
6
Once the rice is cooked to your desired level of tenderness, fold in the thawed peas, julienned prosciutto, lemon zest, 2/3 cup of grated Parmesan, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7
If the risotto appears too thick, thin it out with additional warm chicken broth as needed.
8
Serve the risotto immediately, garnished with the remaining 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
Nutrition Information
8g
Fat
26g
Carbs
6g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Zest Risotto with Peas and Crispy Prosciutto?
It is a creamy Italian-style rice dish made with arborio rice, chicken broth, sweet peas, salty julienned prosciutto, and fresh lemon zest.
How many servings does this risotto recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What are the main ingredients required?
The main ingredients include chicken broth, onion, unsalted butter, arborio rice, dry white wine, frozen peas, prosciutto, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
No, this version uses chicken broth and prosciutto. To make it vegetarian, substitute with vegetable broth and omit the prosciutto.
How long does the arborio rice take to cook?
The process of adding broth and stirring typically takes between 18 and 20 minutes.
Why should the chicken broth be warmed before adding to the rice?
Warming the broth ensures the temperature of the rice stays consistent, allowing the starches to release properly for a creamy texture.
Can I use a different type of rice?
Arborio is best for its starch content, but Carnaroli or Vialone Nano are also excellent substitutes for risotto.
Do I need to toast the rice before adding liquid?
Yes, toasting the rice for about 1 minute in butter helps coat the grains and enhances the final flavor and texture.
What kind of wine is recommended?
A dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is ideal.
How do I know when the risotto is finished?
The risotto is done when the rice is al dente (tender with a slight bite) and the consistency is creamy.
What should I do if the risotto becomes too thick?
Simply stir in a little more warm chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I substitute the chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What can I use instead of frozen peas?
Fresh peas can be used, though they may require a few extra minutes of cooking or blanching beforehand.
How do I julienne the prosciutto?
Stack the thin slices of prosciutto and cut them into very thin, long strips.
What is the purpose of the lemon zest?
The lemon zest provides a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
Can I use a different cheese than Parmesan?
Yes, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are suitable alternatives for this dish.
What is a good substitute for white wine?
You can use a tablespoon of lemon juice mixed with extra broth if you prefer not to use alcohol.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but you should adjust the amount of additional salt added at the end to avoid over-salting.
How should this dish be garnished?
Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley.
Can I make this risotto ahead of time?
Risotto is best served immediately for the best texture, though you can prep the ingredients in advance.
How do I reheat leftover risotto?
Reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth or water, stirring constantly to bring back the creamy texture.
What side dishes pair well with this risotto?
A light arugula salad or roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with the flavors of lemon and pea.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as the rice texture can become grainy and mushy upon thawing.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 6 grams of protein in each serving.
What is the fat content of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
This recipe contains dairy (butter and cheese) and meat (prosciutto and chicken broth).
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 26 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What makes the risotto creamy without adding cream?
The creaminess comes from the starch released by the arborio rice as it is stirred while slowly absorbing the broth.
How much lemon zest should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of grated lemon zest.