Ah, spring! The season of renewal, blossoming flowers, and, of course, fresh asparagus. There's just something so invigorating about the vibrant green spears popping up at the farmers' market. They practically scream, 'Eat me!' And what better way to showcase this seasonal gem than in a luxuriously creamy risotto? This Spring Asparagus and Mascarpone Risotto is a celebration of spring flavors, combining the delicate sweetness of asparagus with the rich, velvety texture of mascarpone cheese. It's a dish that's both elegant and comforting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. One time, I completely burnt the garlic during the sautéeing process. Let me tell you, that was NOT a pleasant surprise! Don't be like me, keep a close eye on it!
This risotto isn't just about the ingredients; it's about the process. The slow, methodical stirring, the gentle simmering, the gradual release of starch from the Arborio rice – it's a mindful and meditative experience. Trust me, you will LOVE this dish and it will be an instant favorite! Each spoonful is a symphony of flavors and textures, from the subtle bite of the rice to the creamy smoothness of the mascarpone and the tender-crisp asparagus. It's a dish that's sure to impress your friends and family, but more importantly, it's a dish that will bring you joy. I often think back to that time in Italy when I tried this dish for the first time.
Required Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
Spring Asparagus and Mascarpone Risotto: Frequently Asked Questions
Spring Asparagus and Mascarpone Risotto
Indulge in the season with this Spring Asparagus and Mascarpone Risotto, a creamy and flavorful dish that perfectly combines fresh asparagus with the richness of mascarpone cheese. This risotto is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of spring.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Trim the asparagus: Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. Cut the remaining stalks into 1-inch pieces, reserving the tips separately. This is importannt, so don't skip it!
- Prepare the broth: In a large pot, heat the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) over medium heat. Keep it simmering gently throughout the cooking process. This makes a BIG difference.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Toast the rice: Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. The rice should become translucent around the edges. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the risotto.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine (if using) and stir until it is absorbed completely. This adds acidity and complexity to the dish. Let it simmer for a minute or so.
- Add broth gradually: Add about 1 cup of the warm broth to the rice, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed. Continue adding broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. This process takes about 20-25 minutes. I once forgot the broth – disaster!
- Incorporate asparagus: After about 15 minutes, when the rice is almost tender but still has a slight bite (al dente), add the asparagus pieces (excluding the tips). Continue adding broth as needed and stirring until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Cook asparagus tips: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the reserved asparagus tips. They cook quickly, so adding them later prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Stir in mascarpone and cheese: Remove the risotto from the heat. Stir in the mascarpone cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the risotto is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is crucial; don't skip!
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the risotto with fresh parsley and serve immediately. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan is always welcome!
📝 Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Adjust the amount of broth depending on the consistency you prefer.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Calcium: 150mg
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