Create a moment of pure comfort with this creamy and elegant Asparagus Risotto, a dish that feels special yet is beautifully simple to make. This recipe brings together tender spring asparagus and creamy rice in a warm, nourishing meal that will bring smiles to your family’s faces. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal ingredients and shared time at the table.

🕒 TIME

Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total: 40 min

👨👩👧👦 Servings: 4

🛒 INGREDIENTS

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm in a separate pot
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
• Zest of ½ lemon (optional, for a burst of freshness)

👩🍳 PREPARATION

1. Prepare the asparagus: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus pieces for 2–3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately drain and set them aside.
2. Sauté the base: In a large, wide pan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Toast the rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes. You’ll notice the grains become slightly translucent around the edges. This step helps the rice cook evenly.
4. Gradually add broth: Add one ladle of the warm vegetable broth to the rice, stirring gently and constantly. Wait until the liquid is almost fully absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this patient, stirring process for about 18–20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente (tender with a slight bite).
5. Finish and serve: In the last couple of minutes of cooking, gently stir in the blanched asparagus pieces and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. For a bright, fresh finish, add the optional lemon zest. Serve immediately.

💡 Vitalicious Tip:
Save the tough bottom ends of the asparagus that you trimmed off. You can add them to your vegetable broth as it simmers to infuse it with extra asparagus flavor. Just remember to remove them before you start making the risotto.

💚 NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

• A Source of Folate: Asparagus is a wonderful natural source of folate, an important B vitamin that supports cell growth and overall family wellness.
• Sustained Energy: The Arborio rice provides slow-releasing carbohydrates, offering steady, comforting energy without a crash.
• Gentle on Digestion: This warm, creamy dish is easy to digest, making it a soothing and satisfying meal for all ages.

🌸 VARIATION / OPTION

For a dairy-free and vegan version, simply use a plant-based butter (or extra olive oil) and swap the Parmesan cheese for a high-quality vegan Parmesan or a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

🌞 SERVING SUGGESTION

Ladle the creamy risotto into warm, shallow bowls. Top with a few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese, a final drizzle of good olive oil, and a crack of black pepper. It’s a simple, elegant presentation that makes any meal feel special—your perfect Mama Vitalicious moment of cozy indulgence. 💚

Discover more healthy and family-friendly ideas in our Vita-Meals section!

Frequently Asked Questions