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Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto

creamy lemon Parmesan risotto - featured image
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A comforting and bright risotto recipe combining creamy Parmesan, fresh lemon, and thyme for a quick and easy homemade comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) Arborio rice
  • 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or vegetable stock, kept warm
  • 3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • 2 medium shallots, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine (optional)
  • ¾ cup (75g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1 large lemon, zest and juice
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Warm the stock in a saucepan over low heat and keep at a gentle simmer (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to burn.
  4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with butter and oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes until edges are slightly translucent but center remains opaque.
  5. Pour in dry white wine and stir constantly until mostly evaporated. If skipping wine, proceed to next step.
  6. Add warm stock gradually, about ½ cup at a time, stirring gently and continuously. Allow rice to absorb liquid before adding more. Continue for about 20 minutes until risotto is creamy and rice is tender but slightly firm.
  7. Turn off heat and stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and chopped thyme. Gradually add lemon juice, tasting to balance brightness without overpowering.
  8. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir once more and serve immediately.

Notes

Keep the stock warm throughout cooking to maintain temperature and ensure even cooking. Stir gently but consistently to release starch and achieve creamy texture. Taste often to avoid overcooking. Fresh lemon zest and thyme are key for brightness. Stir in butter and cheese off heat to prevent grainy texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: risotto, lemon risotto, Parmesan risotto, creamy risotto, easy dinner, comfort food, thyme, quick risotto

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-lemon-parmesan-risotto-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/