Risotto alla Pugliese

Risotto alla Pugliese is a creamy and satisfying Italian rice dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of the Apulia region. With fresh vegetables and a hint of cheese, this healthy version is both comforting and nutritious.

Ingredients

• Arborio rice - 150 grams
• Vegetable broth - 500 ml
• Extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 1 clove, minced
• Cherry tomatoes - 200 grams, halved
• Zucchini - 1 small, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1 small, diced
• Fresh basil - 10 grams, chopped
• Parmesan cheese - 30 grams, grated
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Steps

1. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm over low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the rice is slightly translucent.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red bell pepper to the skillet, mixing well.
6. Pour in a ladle of warm broth, stirring frequently until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
7. Continue adding broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
8. Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to taste.
9. Let it sit for a minute before serving to enhance the flavors.

Nutrition

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables
• Good source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy

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