She Strengthens

Risotto Reinvented: A Canvas of Endless Flavor

When it comes to risotto, the possibilities are endless. This basic vegetable risotto recipe serves as a foundation, waiting for you to add your personal touch. Whether you’re in the mood for wine-infused, herb-scented, or cheesy goodness, this dish is the perfect starting point.

The Essentials

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

• 1 quart low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup Arborio or Carnaroli rice
• 2 medium zucchini, small dice
• 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Laying the Groundwork

To begin, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium heat. Keep it warm and ready to go. In a large, wide saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, about 5 minutes.

Introducing the Star of the Show: Arborio Rice

Next, add the Arborio rice to the saucepan, stirring occasionally until the kernels start to crackle, about 1-2 minutes. Now it’s time to start adding the warm broth, one ladleful at a time. Let the rice simmer, stirring constantly, until it absorbs the liquid and the bottom of the pot is nearly dry. Repeat this process, seasoning occasionally, until the rice is nearly al dente, about 20 minutes.

Adding a Pop of Color and Flavor

Once the rice is cooked, add the diced zucchini and continue cooking until it’s tender on the outside but still retains some crunch, about 5 minutes more. You might not use all of the broth, so don’t worry if you have some left over. Finally, stir in the Parmesan cheese, taste, and season as desired. Serve with additional Parmesan and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

This basic recipe serves as a canvas, waiting for your creative touch. Consider adding a splash of wine, some sautéed vegetables, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to give your risotto a unique flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!