Strawberry Risotto
Here is a very unusual main course, which you should certainly try at least once in your life. It is risotto with strawberries, fresh, fragrant and colourful: a risotto that smells of spring and puts you in a good mood ... and it’s a very good idea for a romantic dinner. What do you think? Today we will learn how to make it together, what ingredients to buy and the exact method for cooking it. After all, we are in the middle of strawberry season and maybe you have some growing in your back garden at home. Isn’t it nice to use them straight from the garden to bring some merriment to your dinner table? With its delicate bouquet and fruity taste, a good risotto should never be underestimated. It's also a fact that risotto is open to many interpretations, and you could use just about any ingredient you care to try to get your preferred colour or flavour. So arm yourself with some good will and follow our recipe step-by-step - we guarantee an excellent result!
Ingredients
* approximate values per serving
Preparation
Wash and clean the strawberries, removing them from their stalks, then cut them into slices. Fry the rice in a heavy casserole dish for half a minute with a little oil. Cover the rice with ‘Fragolino’ wine and evaporate. Then add salt and water and cook as for a normal risotto until done. When cooked, add the strawberries to the risotto and turn off the heat. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Serve the risotto with a mint leaf and a fresh strawberry sliced and fanned out.
Step by step
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Wash the strawberries and remove their stalks, then slice them
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Fry the rice in some hot oil in a casserole for half a minute
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Cover the rice with the Fragolino wine and reduce. Then add salt and more water as needed until done
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When cooked, add the strawberries to the risotto and remove from the heat
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Whisk in some butter and grated parmesan
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Serve the risotto with a fresh mint leaf and a fresh strawberry sliced and fanned out
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Additional information
Strawberry Risotto with added Fragolino wine
One of the tastiest variations of Strawberry Risotto is the one that includes Fragolino wine. This sweet and aromatic wine enhances the flavor of the strawberries, making the dish even more special. The preparation remains essentially the same, but the addition of this wine gives the risotto a fruity note and a enveloping aroma that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries. To prepare this version, simply follow the classic recipe, replacing regular wine with Fragolino during the toasting phase of the rice. The result will be a risotto with an appealing color and a rich flavor, perfect for a summer dinner or a special occasion. Don't forget to garnish the dish with fresh strawberries and a mint leaf for an extra touch of freshness.
Lombard Strawberry Risotto
The Lombard Strawberry Risotto is a preparation that reflects the rich gastronomic tradition of Lombardy. This variation stands out for the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients typical of the region. The original recipe calls for vialone rice, a type of rice ideal for risottos, which absorbs flavors perfectly. In the Lombard version, in addition to strawberries, it is possible to add a bit of vegetable broth to make the risotto even creamier. The slow and careful cooking allows the rice to release its starch, creating a velvety consistency. Serving the risotto hot, perhaps accompanied by a good Lombard red wine, is a perfect way to appreciate this delight of regional cuisine.
Light Strawberry Risotto without butter
For those who desire a lighter version of Strawberry Risotto, it can be prepared without butter. This light variation maintains the fresh and fruity flavor of the strawberries while reducing calories and fat content. Instead of butter, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can be used during the creaming phase. Additionally, it is advisable to opt for a reduced amount of parmesan or substitute it with a low-fat cheese. The preparation remains the same: the rice is toasted, the strawberries and wine are added, and finally, everything is creamed together. This version is perfect for those following a balanced diet but who do not want to give up a tasty and flavorful dish.
Nutritional benefits of strawberries in Strawberry Risotto
Strawberries are a key ingredient in Strawberry Risotto and provide numerous nutritional benefits. These fruits are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. Additionally, strawberries contain fiber, which promotes digestion and can help keep cholesterol levels in check. A plate of Strawberry Risotto, prepared with about 80 grams of rice and 100 grams of strawberries, provides approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This makes it a nutritious and tasty option, ideal for a light lunch or a dinner among friends.
Can Strawberry Risotto be frozen?
Freezing Strawberry Risotto is not recommended, as the texture of the rice may change during the freezing and thawing process. Strawberries, in fact, tend to lose their freshness and become mushy. If you wish to prepare the risotto in advance, it is better to cook the rice separately and add fresh strawberries at the time of serving. This way, the dish will maintain its freshness and original flavor. If you really want to store a portion, you can try freezing only the risotto without the strawberries, but it is always advisable to consume it fresh to fully appreciate its taste.