Intro:
Who can resist the cozy warmth and comforting aroma of a delicious risotto? This Italian classic dish is a perfect canvas for creativity, allowing you to infuse it with your favorite flavors. Today, we’ll be exploring a delightful variation with the fresh and versatile zucchini as the star ingredient. Our Zucchini Risotto with Parmesan combines the earthy goodness of zucchini with the rich umami taste of Parmesan cheese, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable or chicken broth over low heat. Keep it warm but not boiling.
2. In a separate large pan or skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the grains to toast slightly and absorb the flavors of the onion and garlic.
4. Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until it is absorbed by the rice.
5. Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition of broth to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process until the rice is creamy yet al dente, which should take about 18-20 minutes.
6. In another pan, heat the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and sauté until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
7. Once the risotto reaches the desired consistency, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, sautéed zucchini, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
8. Remove the risotto from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Serve the Zucchini Risotto with Parmesan in individual bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra freshness. Grate some additional Parmesan on top if desired.
With its creamy texture, vibrant green zucchini, and nutty Parmesan cheese, this Zucchini Risotto with Parmesan is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining guests, this dish offers a delightful twist on a traditional Italian favorite. So roll up your sleeves, pour yourself a glass of wine, and let the aromas of this delicious risotto transport you to the sun-kissed hills of Italy. Enjoy!
