Tangy Lemon Risotto
This is a simple risotto made using fridge and pantry leftovers that I really needed to get rid of: tomato paste, half a lemon, risotto, and chicken broth. They came together beautifully! It's slightly rich because let's be honest - risotto always is, but it's also lightened up because I didn't add any heavy cream or butter. It's simply olive oil, onions, garlic, tomato paste, lemon, broth and risotto with some simple pantry spices that everyone usually has on hand! You're going to love it on a rainy, chilly, winter day. ⏱️ Total Time: 45 minutes
Chef's Notes
- You can use vegetable broth or water, but adjust salt levels accordingly.
- Feel free to add parmesan or goat cheese for a luxurious mac n' cheesy feel.
- Instead of parmesan, you can garnish with panko or toasted breadcrumbs.
- If you don't have tomato paste, use a little tomato sauce and adjust lemon juice.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 Sliced Yellow Onion
- 4 Cloves Chopped Garlic
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 Tbsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 Tbsp Red Chili Flakes
- Salt
- 2 Tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 C Risotto Dry
- 4-6 C Chicken Broth
- 1/4 C Milk of Choice
- 1/2 Lemon + Zest
- Optional Parmesan for Garnish
Instructions
- 1
Heat the olive oil on medium heat in a pan. Add in onions and sautee for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- 2
Add in the garlic, bay leaf, black pepper, chili flakes, and salt. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Add in the tomato paste and mix until it's well incorporated with the aromatics.
- 4
Add in your risotto and stir for 1 minute to toast the rice slightly.
- 5
Start adding the broth 1 cup at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until most of the liquid is absorbed before adding the next cup. This process should take about 20-25 minutes.
- 6
Once the risotto is creamy and the rice is tender but still has a slight bite, add in the milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well.
- 7
Remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with parmesan if desired. Enjoy!
Pairs Perfectly
Dost
This fruit forward sauce has elements of sweet from the pineapple and mango, but packs in a punch with the red chili flakes and roasted Serrano peppers. 🌟 Key Features: Heat Level: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Medium) Primary Ingredients: Mango, Pineapple, Serrano Chili, White Vinegar, Flavor Profile: Sweet n Spicy Perfect With: Paani Puri, Greek yogurt, dips 👨🍳 Chef's Favorite: This is ideal on your charcuterie board!