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Easy Italian Lemon Risotto – The Perfect Spring Dinner Recipe

Introduction to Italian Lemon Risotto

Easy Italian Lemon Risotto – The Perfect Spring Dinner Recipe Spring is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing and creamy Italian Lemon Risotto. This delightful dish is ideal for busy women, whether you’re a mom or a professional, looking to elevate your spring dinner with minimal effort. The combination of arborio rice and zesty lemon creates a meal that’s both satisfying and invigorating.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Lemon Risotto

  • Quick preparation and minimal cleanup make it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Family-friendly flavors that everyone will enjoy.
  • A refreshing twist on traditional risotto, perfect for spring.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Arborio rice: The heart of any risotto, providing a creamy texture.
  • Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic.
  • Onion and garlic: Essential for building a flavorful base.
  • White wine: Enhances the depth of flavor.
  • Chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid that cooks the rice to perfection.
  • Lemon zest and juice: Infuses the dish with a bright, citrusy flavor.
  • Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami richness.
  • Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
  • Fresh parsley: A fresh garnish to finish the dish.

Printable measurements are provided at the article’s end.

How to Make Italian Lemon Risotto

Step 1 – Prep Ingredients

  • Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Zest and juice the lemon.
  • Grate the parmesan cheese.

Step 2 – Begin Cooking

  • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  • Sauté the onion and garlic until the onion is translucent.

Step 3 – Combine Ingredients

  • Stir in the arborio rice, coating it well with oil.
  • Pour in the white wine, allowing it to absorb.
  • Gradually add broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently.

Step 4 – Finish and Serve

  • Once the rice is creamy, stir in lemon zest, juice, and parmesan.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

  • Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust lemon juice to taste for desired citrus intensity.
  • Use warm broth to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.

Essential Equipment Needed

  • Large pan or skillet
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Zester for the lemon
  • Grater for the parmesan

Delicious Variations of Italian Lemon Risotto

Risotto Dinner Recipe
  • Keto-friendly: Substitute cauliflower rice for arborio rice.
  • Gluten-free: Ensure broth is gluten-free.
  • Add protein: Stir in cooked shrimp or chicken for added protein.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Serve with a chilled glass of white wine.
  • Complement with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.

FAQs About Italian Lemon Risotto

Can I make Italian Lemon Risotto ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What can I use instead of white wine?
Substitute with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts on Italian Lemon Risotto

Italian Lemon Risotto is a delightful way to bring a taste of spring to your dinner table. Its creamy texture and refreshing lemon flavor make it a standout dish that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this recipe, perfect for any busy woman looking to create a memorable meal.

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Risotto Dinner Recipe

Italian Lemon Risotto: Elevate Your Spring Dinner Tonight!


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Description

Italian Lemon Risotto is a creamy and refreshing dish perfect for a spring dinner, combining the richness of arborio rice with a zesty lemon flavor.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup arborio rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
  2. Add the arborio rice and stir for 2-3 minutes until the rice is well-coated with oil.
  3. Pour in the white wine and cook until it is mostly absorbed by the rice.
  4. Gradually add the broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each cup to be absorbed before adding the next.
  5. Once the rice is creamy and cooked through, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice to taste for more or less citrus flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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