Risotto Primavera

This satisfying recipe features a traditional “stand–and–stir” style risotto complemented by a delicious blend of crisp-tender sautéed vegetables. Here, a mix of onion, peas, carrots, asparagus, yellow squash, and zucchini add an appealing pop of colour, texture, and flavor to a delicious base of creamy risotto.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

2 T. extra virgin olive oil, divided
½ c. white onion, chopped small
½ c. frozen peas
½ c. carrots, chopped small
1/3 c. asparagus, chopped into 1” pieces
1/3 c. yellow squash, chopped small
1/3 c. zucchini, chopped small
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
1 c. arborio rice
½ c. dry white wine
4-5 c. warm chicken or vegetable, divided*
1 c. Parmesan cheese, grated + more for serving
2 t. fresh lemon zest
3 T. fresh parsley, chopped

*For creamier risotto, add additional broth, one-half cup at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Add one tablespoon olive oil to a large high-sided skillet set over medium-high heat. Add the onion, peas, carrots, asparagus, squash, and zucchini and season with salt and black pepper, to taste.

Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are crisp-tender and start to develop some colour, approximately 4-5 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and set aside.

Add the remaining olive oil and the Arborio rice to the skillet. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes while stirring continually.

Reduce heat to medium and pour in the white wine. Deglaze the skillet by gently scraping the bottom with a spatula or wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits.

When the wine is completely absorbed, add one-half cup warm broth to the skillet and cook, stirring continually, until absorbed, approximately 4-5 minutes. Repeat this process with the remaining broth, one-half cup at a time, until the rice is tender and creamy.

Stir in the sautéed vegetables, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or just until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Season with additional salt and black pepper, if desired, and serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese on the side. Enjoy!

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