Risotto with Salmon
Category: Main Courses
Serves: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carnaroli Rice | 350g |
| Salmon Steaks | 250g |
| Leek | 1 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As needed |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| White Wine | ½ glass |
| Grana Padano DOP (Grated) | 20g |
| Salt | As needed |
| Black Pepper | As needed |
| Fish Broth | 500ml |
| Butter | 80g |
| Marjoram (Fresh) | 1 sprig |
| Dill (Fresh) | 1 sprig |
| Thyme (Fresh) | 1 sprig |
| Lemon Zest | ½ lemon |
| Salt | As needed |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Butter
Begin by preparing the flavored butter. Take the fresh herbs (marjoram, dill, and thyme) and finely chop them. Grate the zest of half a lemon, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. In a small bowl, combine the herbs and lemon zest, then add the butter and mix until well incorporated. Set aside to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Next, take the salmon fillets and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. Heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a whole garlic clove and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, just until fragrant. Add the salmon pieces to the pan, season with salt, and cook for a few minutes until lightly browned on all sides. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet, discard the garlic, and set the salmon aside, keeping it warm.
Step 3: Start the Risotto
In the same skillet, heat two more tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Finely slice the leek and add it to the pan. Cook the leek gently until it softens and turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Once the leek has softened, add the Carnaroli rice to the pan, stirring it to coat the rice with the oil and leek mixture.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine and Begin Cooking
Pour in the white wine, allowing it to evaporate and infuse the rice with a subtle flavor. Once the wine has mostly absorbed, begin adding the fish broth, one ladleful at a time. Stir continuously to allow the rice to absorb the liquid slowly. Continue to add the broth, stirring often, until the rice is tender but still slightly al dente, which should take around 18-20 minutes.
Step 5: Finish the Risotto
Once the rice is cooked to your liking, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the aromatic herb butter and, if desired, a couple of tablespoons of grated Grana Padano. This will give the risotto a rich, creamy texture and a burst of flavor. Gently fold in the cooked salmon pieces, being careful not to break them up too much. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the risotto hot, garnishing with a few fresh sprigs of dill or thyme if desired. For an extra touch of freshness, you can also sprinkle a little more grated lemon zest over the top just before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Risotto
- Rice Choice: Carnaroli rice is ideal for risotto because of its ability to absorb liquid without losing its shape, providing that perfect creamy consistency.
- Broth: Using fish broth rather than vegetable broth enhances the seafood flavor of this dish, but you can substitute with vegetable broth if preferred.
- Stirring: Constant stirring is key to making risotto creamy. Be patient and allow the rice to absorb the broth gradually.
- Flavor Variations: If you love herbs, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add even more layers of flavor.
- Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Grana Padano, you can substitute it with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a slightly different taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
This Risotto with Salmon recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests at a special gathering, combines the delicate flavors of fresh salmon with the creamy richness of a perfectly prepared risotto. By infusing the butter with fresh herbs and lemon zest, you bring an aromatic depth to the dish that perfectly complements the fish. Simple yet elegant, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
