Healthy Lemon Basil Risotto

Healthy Lemon Basil Risotto

4 servings
Healthy Lemon Basil Risotto is the perfect lighter, gluten free side dish. The combination of lemon zest and fresh basil gives it a rich, delicious flavor!

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    1 tbsp
  • onions

    finely chopped

    ½ c
  • garlic)

    minced (about 3 cloves

    ½ tbsp
  • arborio rice

    dry

    1 c
  • chicken stock

    low or no salt

    2 ½ c
  • grated parmesan cheese
    ½ c
  • lemon zest

    zest of 1-2 lemons

    1 tbsp
  • lemon juice

    juice of 1-2 lemons

    ¼ c
  • black pepper
    ½ tsp
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • fresh basil

    finely chopped

    ¼ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat olive oil in large sauté pan. Add in onions and garlic to olive oil. Sauté until translucent, about 5-8 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add in uncooked rice and chicken broth. Stir together, cover and bring to a boil.

  3. 3

    Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes over medium heat until the rice starts to absorb the liquid.

  4. 4

    After rice has simmered, stir in cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Stir until rice has absorbed all liquid and is creamy.

  5. 5

    Before serving stir in basil and enjoy!

Healthy Lemon Basil Risotto

Healthy Lemon Basil Risotto

4.6(15)40 min4 servings272 cal

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Based on 15 ratings

thecleaneatingcouple.com
4.6(15 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving a side dish that's both deeply satisfying and refreshingly light? This Healthy Lemon Basil Risotto delivers vibrant, authentic flavor without the usual richness, making it an ideal companion to almost any meal and perfectly guilt-free.The magic of this recipe lies in the thoughtful combination of bright lemon zest and aromatic fresh basil, which infuse every spoonful with a delicate, sophisticated essence. By carefully incorporating quality ingredients like Arborio rice and low-sodium chicken stock, you achieve a wonderfully creamy texture that feels indulgent, yet remains surprisingly light and balanced. It's a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create profound flavor, ensuring a healthy dish doesn't compromise on deliciousness.You'll be delighted by the comforting, velvety texture of this risotto, where each grain of rice remains distinct but is enveloped in a luscious, savory sauce. The initial burst of tangy lemon is beautifully mellowed by the herbaceous whisper of fresh basil, creating a harmonious and uplifting taste experience. This dish is designed to feel substantial and satisfying, yet it won't weigh you down. It’s naturally gluten-free and truly embodies a fresh approach to a classic comfort food, making it perfect for those seeking flavor without the heaviness.This healthy lemon basil risotto is naturally gluten-free, offering a versatile base. For a vegetarian option, simply swap the chicken stock for a good quality vegetable stock. Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon zest for more brightness or add extra fresh basil just before serving for an intensified herbal aroma, tailoring it perfectly to your palate.Serve this elegant and creamy risotto as a sophisticated side alongside grilled fish, roasted chicken, or a light vegetable entrée. Its vibrant flavors also make it a standout dish for special occasions, offering a touch of culinary charm to your dining table.

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