Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Italy with our delightful Lemon Risotto with Fresh Herbs and Garlic! This creamy, zesty dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat that will make your dinner table shine. Imagine the rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with the fresh brightness of lemon and herbs, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or an elegant dinner party, this risotto is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, zesting and juicing the lemon, and chopping the fresh herbs.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it simmering on low heat. This ensures the broth is warm when adding to the risotto.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Add Arborio rice to the pan and toast the grains for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to coat each grain with oil and prevent sticking.
- Begin adding warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Allow each ladle of broth to be absorbed before adding the next.
- Continue adding broth and stirring for about 18-20 minutes, until rice is creamy and al dente with a slight resistance when biting.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes to achieve a creamy consistency. If needed, add a little more broth to reach desired creaminess.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh herbs and a light drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onion, mince the garlic, zest and juice the lemon, and chop the fresh herbs before you start cooking. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Keep the Broth Warm: Always keep your vegetable broth simmering on low heat. Adding cold broth to the rice can slow down the cooking process and affect the creamy texture of the risotto.
- Stir Constantly: Risotto requires your attention! Stirring continuously while adding the broth helps release the starch from the rice, resulting in that signature creamy consistency.
- Taste for Doneness: After about 18-20 minutes of cooking, taste the rice. It should be creamy and al dente, with just a slight bite. If it’s too firm, continue adding broth and cooking until it reaches your desired texture.
- Finish with Freshness: For the best flavor, add the lemon zest, juice, and fresh herbs at the end of cooking. This will ensure their vibrant flavors shine through in the final dish.
- Serve Immediately: Risotto is best enjoyed fresh! Serve it right away for the creamiest texture, and consider garnishing with extra fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
