Creamy Spring Onion, Scapes, and Zucchini Risotto

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Elevate your dining experience with this elegant risotto featuring fresh spring onions, garlic scapes, and tender zucchini. This dish is not only creamy and comforting but also a vibrant celebration of spring flavors!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2-3 spring onions, sliced (both white and green parts)
  • 1 cup zucchini, diced into small cubes
  • 2-3 garlic scapes, chopped (or 2 cloves garlic)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) for garnish

Recipe:

  1. Prepare the Broth:
    • In a saucepan, gently heat the broth over low heat to keep it warm throughout the cooking process.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
    • Stir in the chopped spring onions and garlic scapes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Risotto:
    • Add the Arborio rice to the pan, stirring to coat the grains in the aromatic oil. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes until slightly translucent.
    • Gradually add the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more, which helps release the starches and create that signature creamy texture.
  4. Incorporate the Zucchini:
    • After about 15 minutes of cooking, when the rice is partially cooked, gently fold in the diced zucchini.
    • Continue to add broth and stir until the rice is al dente and creamy, approximately 20-25 minutes in total.
  5. Finish and Serve:
    • Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
    • Plate the risotto and garnish with fresh herbs and extra spring onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Enjoy!

This creamy spring onion, scapes, and zucchini risotto is perfect for an elegant dinner party or a cozy night in. It’s a delightful way to showcase seasonal produce and impress your guests with a sophisticated and comforting dish!