Spinach and Mushroom Risotto is the perfect comfort dish that combines creamy rice, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach. It’s a delightful way to elevate a weeknight dinner without too much fuss. Let's dive into making this satisfying and savory classic!
Olive oil provides a flavorful base for sautéing the aromatics. Arborio rice is crucial as its high starch content gives risotto its signature creaminess. Use chicken or vegetable broth to gradually cook the rice, adding depth of flavor. A splash of white wine adds a touch of acidity and enhances the dish’s complexity. Mushrooms, with their umami richness, pair beautifully with the fresh, vibrant notes of spinach. Onion and garlic form the aromatic foundation, while Parmesan cheese and butter are stirred in at the end for that luscious finish. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
This risotto pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and a glass of the same white wine you used in the recipe. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted chicken or pork tenderloin.
Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Stir them occasionally until they become tender and release their juices, which should take another 5 minutes. Once the mushrooms are ready, it's time for the rice.
Add the cup of Arborio rice to the pan. Stir it frequently for about 2 minutes. You want the grains to be lightly toasted but not browned, which helps to release the starches that will make the risotto creamy.
Pour in the half-cup of white wine. Keep stirring as the rice absorbs the wine; this adds a layer of flavor that’s worth the effort. Once the wine is mostly absorbed, begin adding the broth.
Gradually add the broth, one ladle at a time, stirring regularly. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding more. This process usually takes about 15 minutes. It’s important to stir consistently to encourage the rice to release its starch.
After about 15 minutes, add the fresh spinach to the pan. Continue cooking, incorporating the spinach into the risotto until the rice is tender and creamy. This should take around 20 minutes in total.
Finally, stir in two tablespoons of butter and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and well-combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
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