Risoni Recipe
Risoni, also known as orzo, is a culinary gem that gracefully marries the world of rice and pasta. Resembling tiny grains of rice, these delicate, rice-shaped pasta pearls capture the imagination and palate with their versatility and charm.
In Mediterranean and Italian cuisines, risoni often stars in creamy risottos, embracing the creamy texture while maintaining its unique bite. Its diminutive form allows it to cradle sauces and adhere to flavors, ensuring that each forkful delivers a harmonious blend of taste and texture.
Risoni Recipe
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan:
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Zester or grater
- Juicer
- Mixing bowls
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 1 cup risoni orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup baby spinach roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Risoni:Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Cook the risoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics:In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Spinach:Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Combine Risoni and Vegetables:Add the cooked risoni to the skillet, mixing well with the vegetables. Allow the flavors to meld for a few minutes
- Add Lemon Zest and Juice:Incorporate the lemon zest and lemon juice, stirring to distribute the citrusy flavors evenly throughout the dish.
- Fold in Feta and Fresh Herbs:Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs of your choice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:Spoon the creamy lemon and herb risoni into serving bowls. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.
- Enjoy:Serve this delightful dish as a light main course or a flavorful side dish, savoring the vibrant combination of citrus, herbs, and creamy textures.
Notes
This Creamy Lemon and Herb Risoni Pasta is a quick and delightful option for a refreshing meal, showcasing the versatility of risoni in a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
