Recipe: Vegetarian Garden Risotto From Aruba

A comforting risotto crafted with Arborio rice, gently simmered in fragrant vegetable broth and folded with seasonal garden vegetables. Thoughtfully prepared as a light yet satisfying, shareable experience, this risotto reflects the fresh, wholesome flavors of Aruba’s pureocean Restaurant.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 cups vegetable stock (plus ½ cup for finishing)
  • ½ clove garlic, minced
  • 1 oz pumpkin, small diced
  • 1 oz asparagus tips
  • 1 oz zucchini, small diced
  • 1 oz white onion, minced
  • Fresh spinach, to taste
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 oz Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • Olive oil
  • Aged balsamic glaze
  • Microgreens

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Risotto Rice
    In a medium pot, combine the Arborio rice and 2 cups of vegetable stock. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the rice is al dente and the liquid is absorbed. Transfer to a shallow container and cool in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  2. Cook the Vegetables
    Heat a small amount of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic, pumpkin, asparagus, zucchini, and white onion. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and lightly glazed.
  3. Combine and Finish the Risotto
    Add the cooled risotto rice to the vegetables. Pour in the remaining ½ cup of vegetable stock and stir continuously until the risotto becomes creamy.
  4. Add Greens and Cheese
    Fold in the fresh spinach and shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the spinach is wilted. Gently stir in the cherry tomatoes.
  5. Plate and Garnish
    Spoon the risotto into a shallow bowl or plate. Drizzle with olive oil and aged balsamic glaze. Finish with additional Parmesan and garnish with microgreens.