Spring Farro Risotto: A Nutritious Twist on a Classic Dish

As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, it's the perfect time to embrace the vibrant flavors of spring in your cooking. And what better way to celebrate the season than with a wholesome and delicious dish like Spring Farro Risotto? This hearty recipe puts a nutritious twist on the classic Italian dish, using farro—a nutty, chewy whole grain—as the star ingredient. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, farro adds a satisfying depth of flavor and texture to this comforting risotto.

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Ingredients:

  • 1 cup farro
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
  • 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and keep the broth warm.

  2. In a separate large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Add the farro to the saucepan with the onion and garlic, stirring to coat the grains in the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.

  4. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth to the farro, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the farro is tender and creamy, about 25-30 minutes.

  5. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the peas and asparagus to the risotto, stirring gently to incorporate. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

  6. Once the risotto is cooked to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. If desired, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and creaminess.

  8. Serve the Spring Farro Risotto hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

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This Spring Farro Risotto is not only delicious and satisfying but also incredibly nutritious, making it the perfect dish for enjoying the flavors of the season while nourishing your body. So next time you're looking for a wholesome meal that celebrates the arrival of spring, give this recipe a try!