Monday, May 24, 2010

Red Wine Risotto with Peas

Red Wine Risotto with Peas

It is very rare that I get a weekend completely to myself without having any chores or work things to worry about. This past weekend was one of those rare amazing times when I had two whole days to do whatever I wanted. I kicked off the weekend by cleaning out my very old recipe binder, followed by a beach picnic with a few of my favorite blogging pals, and rounded it out with a little Sunday afternoon fun with some of my best boys. The sun was shining, the weather was perfect and I could not have asked for a better time. While I was cleaning out my recipe folder, I found this particular risotto recipe that I had printed out nearly three years ago. At the time I remembered thinking how unusual it was to put red wine in risotto when you normally use white. The wine not only gives the risotto that beautiful color, but adds a nice deep flavor without additional ingredients that would make it feel heavy. Perhaps a little unconventional, I paired this risotto with shrimp because I love shrimp and risotto together. The green peas add a nice pop of color and their lovely sweetness which rounds out this dish. Now that I have been through my old recipe binder again, I have pulled out a bunch of recipes and can't wait to share some of them soon!

Red Wine Risotto with Peas and Shrimp

You wish you could live here:

Will Rogers Beach 5/22/10




Red Wine Risotto with Peas
(Adapted from Giada De Laurentiis)



Makes 2 servings

2 cups low sodium chicken stock
1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup arborio rice
1/4 cup dry red wine
3 tablespoons frozen peas, defrosted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
1-2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley leaves, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Bring the stock to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cover, and keep the stock warm over very low heat.

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and saute until translucent,but not browned, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the rice and cook for about 2 minutes until the rice is toasted. Add the wine and stir until it is absorbed, about 1-2 minutes. Add one ladle full of the hot chicken stock to the rice; simmer until the liquid is absorbed, stirring often. Repeat, one ladle full at a time until the rice is tender and creamy.

Stir in the peas, Parmesan and parsley. Season to taste. Spoon the risotto into bowls and serve.

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15 comments:

Pam said...

Yes, I wish I could live by that fabulous beach!!! Lucky you!!! Your risotto dish looks perfect any time; thanks!

La Bella Cooks said...

This is a great recipe for a dinner part as well. Glad you liked it too as we are fans around here.

MaryMoh said...

I always cook rice porridge but never a real risotto. This looks delicious. Must try one day.

Maria said...

I love the color of this risotto!

Joanne said...

I have been eying this Giada recipe for a while! I'm glad to know it got such rave reviews. Sounds like a wonderful weekend :P

Diana said...

You know how I feel about risotto, but I've actually never made it with red wine either! Might have to do that. And then might have to drink the rest of the bottle I open up. ;)

marla {family fresh cooking} said...

Esi, it was wonderful to spend time with you this weekend! Your risotto looks wonderful, I love the addition of large shrimp on the top. xo

Taylor said...

You're right, I wish I lived near that beach! I love risotto but have never made it with red wine....looks and sounds delicious!

Unknown said...

i wish i could live there, too! red wine is an interesting twist, i wonder why it's not used as often? :)

Kelly said...

That sounds like a fantastic twist on a classic recipe as well as an incredibly relaxing weekend. And yes, I do wish I could live there.

Juliana said...

Nice risotto...love the idea of using red wine...must taste to yummie!

vanillasugarblog said...

risotto is the perfect little sponge for absorbing all that red wine goodness.
nice beach shot...you know i love it.

Erica said...

Glad you had such a nice weekend :) Your beach looks beautiful! I haven't had a chance to lay on ours yet this year, I may have to make that happen this weekend. Great risotto. The color is gorgeous

Sippity Sup said...

The shrimp bring it home (to the beach) that's for sure! GREG

Alicia Foodycat said...

That is such a wonderful looking dish! And you are so lucky to live near the beach.