A Historical Overview
Risotto, a beloved Italian dish, traces its origins back to Northern Italy in the 14th century, where rice cultivation thrived in the fertile Po Valley. Traditionally made with arborio rice and slow-cooked in broth, risotto became a symbol of comfort and refinement. Over time, it spread globally, adapting to local ingredients. Today, risotto is not only a staple of Italian cuisine but also a versatile dish gracing holiday tables around the world. By incorporating seasonal vegetables, risotto becomes a festive and creamy side dish perfect for Thanksgiving feasts.
Creamy Thanksgiving Vegetable Risotto – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Thanksgiving Vegetable Risotto is rich, velvety, and bursting with seasonal flavors. Featuring tender arborio rice, sweet peas, and colorful vegetables, it makes a hearty yet elegant side dish. Perfect for Thanksgiving, this risotto pairs beautifully with turkey, roasted chicken, or vegetarian mains. Its creamy texture and vibrant colors bring comfort and sophistication to your holiday menu, making it a dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Ingredients
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1 ½ cups arborio rice
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4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 cup diced carrots
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1 cup fresh or frozen peas
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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3 tbsp butter
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½ cup dry white wine (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onions and carrots until softened.
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Add arborio rice and stir until lightly toasted.
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Pour in wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
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Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently, allowing each addition to absorb before adding more.
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Continue until rice is creamy and al dente (about 20 minutes).
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Stir in peas, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Swap peas for asparagus or mushrooms for variety
For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
FAQs
1. Can I make risotto ahead of time?
Risotto is best served fresh, but you can partially cook it, refrigerate, and finish cooking with broth just before serving to save time.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Replace butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a creamy vegan risotto.
3. Can I use long-grain rice instead of arborio?
It’s not recommended. Arborio rice has high starch content that creates risotto’s signature creaminess. Long-grain rice won’t achieve the same texture.
