Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Risotto

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Risotto is a delightful dish that combines the rich, creamy texture of risotto with the fresh taste of broccoli. This recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. When you prepare it, you’ll enjoy a warm bowl of this dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal alone. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy vegetables into your diet!

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Risotto

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio Rice (The star of the risotto, known for its creamy texture.)
• 2 cups Broccoli Florets (Cut into bite-sized pieces.)
• 4 cups Vegetable Broth (Use low-sodium for better control of salt content.)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated for best flavor.)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin for best flavor.)
• 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped.)
• 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.)
• to taste Salt (For seasoning.)
• to taste Pepper (Freshly cracked for seasoning.)
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Added at the end for richness.)

Directions

1. Prepare your ingredients: chop the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the broccoli into small florets.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add Arborio rice to the pot and stir to coat in oil, toasting for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir occasionally.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add broccoli florets after 10 minutes and stir them into the rice.
8. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until creamy and rice is cooked to your liking.
9. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Risotto

Serve the risotto hot in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or some freshly cracked pepper for added flavor. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil on top for an extra touch. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or a piece of crusty bread.

How to Store Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Risotto

If you have leftovers, let the risotto cool down to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the risotto and heat it gently on the stove. Stir well to maintain its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Risotto

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Stir frequently to release the starch from the rice, making it creamy.
• Don’t rush the process; allow the rice to absorb the broth gradually.
• For a richer flavor, try using chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.

Variation

For a different twist, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp to the risotto. You might also experiment with adding different vegetables like peas, asparagus, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just add them in the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they are heated but not overcooked.

2. Can I substitute Arborio rice?
   Arborio rice is ideal for risotto due to its high starch content, but you can use other short-grain rice varieties like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano if needed.

3. Is it necessary to add wine to risotto?
   While many traditional risotto recipes include wine, this version doesn’t require it. The vegetable broth provides plenty of flavor!

Creamy Broccoli Parmesan Risotto

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A comforting dish combining creamy risotto with fresh broccoli, perfect for family dinners or cozy meals.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup Arborio Rice
• 2 cups Broccoli Florets
• 4 cups Vegetable Broth
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 medium Onion
• 2 cloves Garlic
• to taste Salt
• to taste Pepper
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: chop the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the broccoli into small florets.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add Arborio rice to the pot and stir to coat in oil, toasting for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir occasionally.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add broccoli florets after 10 minutes and stir them into the rice.
8. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until creamy and rice is cooked to your liking.
9. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Stir frequently to release the starch from the rice for creaminess.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 15mg