Savory Spinach & Mushroom Barley Risotto
Indulge in this warm and comforting Savory Spinach & Mushroom Barley Risotto, a heartening dish that combines the nutty richness of pearl barley with the earthy flavors of cremini mushrooms and fresh spinach. This recipe is easy to prepare, allowing for moments of relaxation while it simmers, making it a perfect choice for weeknight meals or special gatherings. For an extra twist, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Enjoy as a satisfying main dish for four or as a delightful side for six; this risotto is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pearl Barley
1 cup (uncooked)
Water
3 cups (for cooking barley)
Salt
1 pinch (to taste)
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
Onion
1 large (diced)
Garlic
3 large cloves (minced)
Sweet Basil Pesto
1 tablespoon (for added flavor)
Cremini Mushrooms
1/2 lb (thickly sliced)
Fresh Spinach
4 cups (torn into 1-inch pieces)
Salt & Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the uncooked pearl barley, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
2
While the barley is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large non-stick saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and beginning to brown around the edges.
3
Add the minced garlic and basil pesto to the pan, stirring well to combine. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4
Stir in the thickly sliced cremini mushrooms and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until they are tender and have released their moisture.
5
Once the barley is finished, add it to the mushroom mixture in the large pan. Toss in the torn spinach and stir everything together until well combined and the spinach starts to wilt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6
Remove from heat and serve hot, garnishing if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main flavors in the Savory Spinach & Mushroom Barley Risotto?
The dish features the nutty richness of pearl barley combined with earthy cremini mushrooms, fresh spinach, and aromatic sweet basil pesto.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as vegan and uses plant-based ingredients like olive oil, vegetables, and grains.
Is this barley risotto recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly dish made with pearl barley and fresh produce.
What type of barley should I use?
You should use 1 cup of uncooked pearl barley for the best texture and results.
How much water is required to cook the barley?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of water to cook 1 cup of pearl barley.
How long does the pearl barley need to simmer?
The barley should simmer for 45-50 minutes until it is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
What temperature should the barley be cooked at?
Bring the water and barley to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low heat to simmer.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings when served as a side or 4 servings as a main dish.
What type of mushrooms work best for this risotto?
Cremini mushrooms are recommended; use 1/2 lb and slice them thickly.
How should I prepare the spinach?
Use 4 cups of fresh spinach and tear it into 1-inch pieces before adding it to the pan.
What kind of onion is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 large diced onion.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the diced onions for about 3 minutes until they are translucent and starting to brown.
How much garlic is needed?
You will need 3 large cloves of garlic, minced.
When do I add the garlic and pesto?
Add the minced garlic and sweet basil pesto after the onions have sautéed for 3 minutes, then cook for one additional minute.
How long should the mushrooms be sautéed?
Sauté the sliced cremini mushrooms for about 4 minutes until they are tender.
What can I add for an extra burst of flavor?
Consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes into the dish for an extra flavor twist.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-pot meal, though it involves using a saucepan for the barley and a larger pan for the final assembly.
When do I add the spinach to the risotto?
Add the torn spinach at the very end when mixing the cooked barley with the mushroom mixture so it can wilt.
What oil is recommended for sautéing?
The recipe suggests using 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
How do I season this dish?
Season with salt and pepper to taste at the final stage of preparation.
Is pearl barley a healthy choice?
Yes, pearl barley is a nutritious whole grain, and the dish is tagged as both healthy and nutritious.
What is the final step before serving?
Stir everything together until well combined and the spinach is wilted, then garnish if desired and serve hot.
Should I cover the pan while cooking the barley?
Yes, cover the saucepan and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes while stirring occasionally.
What type of pan should I use for sautéing the vegetables?
A large non-stick saucepan or pan is recommended for sautéing the onions, garlic, and mushrooms.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a warm and comforting heartening dish.
Can this be served as a side dish?
Yes, it is versatile and works well as a side for six people.
What is the preparation method for the garlic?
The garlic should be minced before being added to the pan.
How much pesto is required?
Use 1 tablespoon of sweet basil pesto for added flavor.
Can I prepare this on a weeknight?
Yes, the recipe is described as easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals.
What is the consistency of the finished risotto?
It has a nutty richness from the barley and a tender texture from the sautéed mushrooms and wilted spinach.