Italian Recipes

Creamy Nettle Risotto with Parmigiano Reggiano

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Nettle Risotto – A Green Delight with Rich Flavors
Category: First Courses | Servings: 4

Experience the fresh, earthy taste of Nettle Risotto, a delightful dish made with tender nettles, rich in nutrients and flavor. The combination of creamy rice, the herbal zing of nettles, and the richness of Parmigiano Reggiano makes for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for those looking to try something a little different, this risotto is as nutritious as it is delicious. Ready to dive into a vibrant and wholesome dish? Follow the recipe below to create your own Nettle Risotto.


Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Arborio Rice 320g
Fresh Nettles (washed) 400g
Extra Virgin Olive Oil 30g
White Wine 50g
Leeks 100g
Vegetable Broth 1 liter
Butter 40g
Parmigiano Reggiano DOP to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Nettles

Start by preparing the nettles—remember to wear gloves to protect your hands from their stinging sensation. Carefully remove the leaves from the stems to yield around 200g of cleaned nettles. Once done, heat 10g of olive oil in a saucepan and add the nettles. Cover with a lid and let them cook for about 10 minutes. After cooking, turn off the heat and transfer the nettles to a tall glass, where you’ll blend them into a smooth, velvety cream.

Step 2: Cooking the Risotto

While the nettles cook, wash and chop the leek, discarding the ends. In a separate saucepan, heat the remaining olive oil and add the leeks. Let them soften over medium heat for 4-5 minutes. Once the leeks are tender, stir in the rice and let it toast for a minute. Add the white wine and let it evaporate completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Adding Broth & Nettles

Once the wine has evaporated, add two ladles of hot vegetable broth to the rice. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. When the rice is partially cooked, add the prepared nettle cream to the saucepan, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and well-incorporated.

Step 4: Finishing the Risotto

Continue to cook the risotto, adding more broth as necessary, until the rice is fully cooked and creamy. When the risotto is at your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Stir in the butter for extra richness and creaminess.

Step 5: Serving

Plate your beautiful, vibrant Nettle Risotto, and finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Serve hot and enjoy the wholesome goodness of this green, nutrient-packed dish.


Tips & Variations

  • Substitutes for Nettles: If you can’t find fresh nettles, you can substitute with spinach or other leafy greens. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.
  • Adding Protein: To make the dish heartier, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta for extra depth.
  • Creamy Texture: If you prefer an even creamier risotto, you can stir in a bit of cream along with the butter for a richer texture.

This Nettle Risotto is a perfect dish for springtime, celebrating the fresh greens and vibrant flavors of the season. Serve it as a main course or pair it with a light salad for a wholesome meal. Enjoy!


Nutritional Information

(Per serving, approximate values)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 450
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 65g
Fat 18g
Fiber 3g
Sodium 800mg
Cholesterol 25mg

This Nettle Risotto is a healthy and flavorful option, packed with nutrients, including fiber, protein, and healthy fats. The addition of fresh nettles offers a powerful boost of vitamins and minerals, making this dish both delicious and nourishing!

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