Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup broccoli florets, finely diced
- ¼ cup frozen peas
- ¼ cup frozen corn
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Grains & Broth
- 1 ½ cups arborio rice
- ¼ cup vegetable broth (initial addition)
- 5 to 6 cups vegetable broth (for gradual cooking)
Seasonings & Cheese
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté vegetables: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it sizzles, approximately 2 minutes. Add the finely diced carrot, red onion, and broccoli florets. Sauté these vegetables until they become tender, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add remaining vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the frozen peas and corn along with the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Toast the rice: Add the arborio rice to the skillet and toast it by stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This process helps release the starches needed for a creamy risotto.
- Begin adding broth: Pour in ¼ cup of vegetable broth and stir continuously until almost all the liquid has been absorbed by the rice, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Continue gradual broth addition: Add 1 cup of vegetable broth at a time, stirring constantly to prevent the rice from sticking. Cook each addition until the liquid is almost fully absorbed before adding the next cup. Repeat this process until all 5 to 6 cups of broth have been incorporated, about 20 minutes total. Ensure the rice is cooked al dente and add extra broth as needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
- Finish with cheese and serve: Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the risotto reaches a creamy, thick porridge-like consistency. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use arborio rice specifically for the best creamy texture in risotto.
- Stirring constantly is crucial for releasing the rice’s starch and achieving a creamy finish.
- Vegetable broth temperature should be warm to help maintain cooking temperature.
- You can substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese substitute for a dairy-free version.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for extra flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on the saltiness of your broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
