Welcome to a bright and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion — Lemon Basil Risotto. This dish takes the creamy richness of classic risotto and elevates it with a fresh citrusy zing and herbaceous notes, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
The base of our risotto is Arborio rice, known for its high starch content that creates that signature creamy texture. Chicken broth adds depth and richness, while dry white wine introduces a subtle acidity to balance the creaminess. We’ll start with a base of onion and garlic for aromatic depth, and finish with Parmesan cheese for a savory, cheesy bite. The olive oil helps toast the rice, while lemon zest and juice bring a bright, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh basil, adding an aromatic, slightly sweet note. Finally, a touch of salt and pepper rounds everything out.
This Lemon Basil Risotto pairs wonderfully with a simple grilled chicken or fish, making it a complete meal. A crisp green salad on the side can add a refreshing contrast, and a chilled glass of the same white wine used in cooking complements the dish beautifully.
Start by bringing your chicken broth to a gentle simmer in a separate saucepan. You want it warm and ready when it’s time to add it to the rice. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it cook until it turns translucent; this should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic for just a minute to release its fragrance.
Next, add your Arborio rice to the skillet. Stir it around for 2-3 minutes until the rice looks lightly toasted. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect risotto texture. Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until it’s fully absorbed by the rice. This not only adds flavor but also preps the rice for absorbing the broth.
Now comes the fun part — gradually adding the chicken broth. Add about a cup at a time, stirring frequently. Let each addition of broth absorb completely before adding more. This process should take around 20 minutes and is key for building up that creamy texture.
Once your rice is tender and creamy, stir in the lemon zest, juice, and Parmesan cheese. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined, and let it cook for another 5 minutes to reach that perfect creamy consistency. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’re ready to serve.
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