Arroz con Espárragos

Arroz con Espárragos is a vibrant vegetarian Spanish rice dish that features tender asparagus and aromatic spices, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This comforting meal is perfect for a light dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

• Arborio rice - 150 grams
• Fresh asparagus - 200 grams, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• Vegetable broth - 500 ml
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Shallot - 1 small, finely chopped
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Saffron threads - a pinch
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Lemon - 1, zested and juiced
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Steps

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat to keep it warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast for about 2 minutes, until slightly translucent.
4. Add the paprika and saffron threads, stirring well to combine.
5. Pour in 125 ml of the warm vegetable broth and stir gently. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the liquid is mostly absorbed, add another 125 ml of broth, stirring again. Repeat this process until the rice is creamy and cooked through, about 18-20 minutes total.
7. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus pieces, stirring them into the rice to cook until tender but still vibrant green.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and season with salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir in the chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 62 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K from asparagus, which support immune function and bone health.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health and maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

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