Risotto with Asparagus and Speck Recipe: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
If you’re craving a flavorful and comforting dish, this Risotto with Asparagus and Speck is a perfect choice. Combining tender asparagus, crispy speck, and creamy risotto, this dish brings the best of Italian cuisine to your table. It’s simple, elegant, and packed with savory flavors that will impress everyone at the dinner table.
Recipe Category: Main Dishes (Primi Piatti)
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Asparagus | 280g |
| Carnaroli Rice | 320g |
| Vegetable Broth | 1 liter |
| Yellow Onion | 1 |
| Speck (Italian cured meat) | 50g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | q.b. (to taste) |
| Butter | 40g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (grated) | 40g |
| Salt (fine) | q.b. (to taste) |
| Black Pepper | q.b. (to taste) |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus
Start by trimming the asparagus stalks. Cut off the tough ends and discard them. Then, cut the remaining asparagus into small rounds, keeping the tips aside for later use. Cut the asparagus tips in half lengthwise to give them a nice presentation in the final dish.
Step 2: Chop the Onion
Peel and finely chop the yellow onion. This will be the base of your flavor, so make sure to chop it evenly.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3–5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and slightly soft.
Step 4: Cook the Asparagus Rounds
Once the onion is ready, add the chopped asparagus (the rounds, not the tips) to the pan. Sauté them for about 4–5 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain some texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Speck
In a separate pan, heat a splash of olive oil and add the speck. Sauté it over medium-high heat until it crisps up nicely, about 4–5 minutes. Once crispy, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
Step 6: Sauté the Asparagus Tips
In the same pan used for the speck, add the asparagus tips and sauté them with a little olive oil for about 2–3 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and tender. Once done, set these aside as well.
Step 7: Cook the Risotto
Now, it’s time to focus on the risotto. In the same large skillet or pan, add the Carnaroli rice to the sautéed onions and asparagus rounds. Stir the rice for 1–2 minutes to allow it to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.
Gradually add the vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Stir frequently to help the rice cook evenly. Continue this process until the rice is cooked al dente, which should take around 18–20 minutes.
Step 8: Finish the Risotto
When the rice is almost done, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the butter and grated Parmigiano Reggiano, allowing the butter to melt and the cheese to melt into the rice. This will give the risotto a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Step 9: Add the Speck and Seasoning
Add a portion of the crispy speck to the risotto and mix it in gently. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
Step 10: Serve and Garnish
To serve, spoon the risotto onto plates and garnish with the reserved asparagus tips and additional crispy speck strips. This step adds a delightful contrast of textures and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Use the Right Rice: Carnaroli rice is ideal for risotto as it absorbs liquid well and maintains a creamy texture.
- Don’t Rush the Broth: Gradually adding the broth to the rice helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency without making it mushy.
- Adjust the Broth: Depending on how creamy or firm you like your risotto, feel free to adjust the amount of broth you use. Keep the heat low while stirring to control the rice’s texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
Conclusion:
This Risotto with Asparagus and Speck combines the delicate flavors of asparagus with the savory richness of speck, all enveloped in a creamy risotto. It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The balance of textures—from the tender rice to the crispy speck and tender asparagus—makes each bite a delightful experience.
Serve this risotto as a main dish for a satisfying meal or pair it with a light salad and a glass of white wine for a more elevated dining experience. With its fresh ingredients and savory flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!
