Now that I have a new little guy to take care of time and simplicity are of the essence! But whether you have 5 kids or cooking for yourself, your time is precious. Read on for my easy, balanced and dare I say fancy Asparagus and Sausage Risotto recipe that drums up a clean bowl from my 3 year old son as well as compliments from our foodie friends.
If you're wondering what I mean by "balanced" it's because it incorporates a vegetable, protein and starch all in one pot. And except for about 5 minutes while the vegetables are being chopped I can tend to a crying 5 week old or easily converse with friends. Plus I discovered that people tend to get excited when you're cooking risotto for them, which was an unintended bonus the first time I made this for our friends. I literally was doing it out of convenience, but they were totally impressed, which felt awesome!
In addition to being a quick dish, there are many health benefits. Asparagus contains the prebiotic called inulin, which is the food for probiotics to flourish. Asparagus also contains a host of antioxidants that reduce inflammation and contribute to a healthy metabolism and immune system since is an excellent source of B vitamins and vitamin C. I included chicken sausage to increase protein and flavor leading to a more fulfilling dish.
Please read my notes below to decrease prep time.
To your health,
Heather
Asparagus and Chicken Sausage Risotto
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups arborio rice
1/2 cup good white wine (optional)
6 cups chicken stock or broth, heated
4 links chicken sausage, sliced down the center and chopped (Try: Applegate Farms dinner sausage)
1 lb. asparagus, woody ends snapped off, chopped in bite size pieces (about 1")
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Extra Parmesan for serving
In a large pot, heat oil over medium high heat oil until it shimmers. Add onion, sauté for 3-4 minutes until onion softens.
Add rice and cook for 1 minute.
Pour wine in pot, stirring until evaporated.
Stir in sausage and add 1-2 cups of broth, stirring occasionally until broth is absorbed.
Continue to add broth 1-2 cups at a time for a total of 15-20 minutes.
Add asparagus when halfway through adding the stock.
Finally stir in Parmesan cheese. Serve hot. Top with Parmesan cheese as desired.
Notes:
-The wine is optional, but a great excuse to open a bottle. Although the alcohol in the wine largely evaporates, while I was pregnant I omitted it without sacrificing the overall taste.
-For best efficiency, only chop the onion in advance, you'll have plenty of time to chop the sausage and asparagus while making the risotto.
minutes of chopping I can old