Risotto with Asiago cheese and shrimp

Shrimp and Asiago Cheese Risotto

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the creamy and flavorful world of risotto! This shrimp and Asiago cheese risotto recipe is a perfect choice for an elegant dinner or to impress your guests. The dish has deep roots in culinary tradition and is appreciated for its velvety texture and rich flavors. Each spoonful will take you on a gastronomic journey, where succulent shrimp harmoniously blend with fine cheese and creamy butter. Let's get started!

Ingredients

- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 1 1/2 cups of Arborio rice (ideal for risotto)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of dry white wine (choose a wine you would drink for a pleasant taste)
- 4 1/2 cups of hot vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 400 grams of large shrimp, peeled
- 100 grams of grated Asiago cheese (can be replaced with Parmesan if preferred)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

A Bit of History

Risotto is an iconic dish of Italian cuisine, known for its creamy texture achieved through a special cooking technique for rice. Arborio rice, with its short and starchy grains, is the perfect ingredient to achieve the desired consistency. Over time, risotto has evolved, being adapted to various local ingredients, and the combination with shrimp and Asiago cheese adds a special touch, perfect for seafood lovers.

Step by Step

1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure you have hot vegetable broth ready, as its temperature is essential for even cooking of the risotto. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can opt for fish broth.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a heavy-bottomed pot (a cast-iron pot is ideal), add the 4 tablespoons of butter and heat over medium heat. When the butter has melted, add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and the flavors combine, being careful not to burn them.

3. Add the Rice
Now, add the Arborio rice and sauté for 1 minute. It is important to stir constantly to infuse it with the flavor of the butter and onion, allowing the rice to become slightly translucent.

4. Incorporate the Wine
Add the 2 tablespoons of dry white wine and mix well. Let the mixture cook for 30 seconds for the alcohol to evaporate, leaving only the aroma of the wine.

5. Add the Broth
Start adding the vegetable broth, one ladle at a time. Stir frequently and wait for the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladle. This process will take about 20 minutes. The risotto is ready when the rice is creamy and slightly al dente.

6. Incorporate the Shrimp
When you have added the last portion of broth, it is time to add the peeled shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, stirring constantly.

7. Finalize the Dish
Once the shrimp are ready, add the remaining butter and grated Asiago cheese. Stir vigorously to achieve a creamy texture. Remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the risotto rest for 10 minutes. This step is essential to allow the flavors to develop.

8. Serving
Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness. The risotto can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to other meals.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Rice: Always use Arborio or Carnaroli rice, as they have a high starch content, essential for creaminess.
- The Wine: Choose a quality dry white wine, as it will significantly influence the final taste of the risotto.
- Shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are fresh. If using frozen shrimp, let them thaw completely before use.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like peas or spinach for a touch of freshness. You can also replace Asiago cheese with another aged cheese, like Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Serving: This risotto pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a seafood cocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long can risotto be stored?
Risotto is best served freshly cooked, but if leftovers remain, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.

- How can I make the risotto healthier?
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of butter and cheese and add more vegetables.

- Can I use regular rice instead of Arborio?
The risotto will not have the same creamy texture, but you can experiment with long-grain rice, although the result will be different.

Nutritional Values (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 550 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g

This shrimp and Asiago cheese risotto is not only a delicious recipe, but also an opportunity to enjoy cooking and share special moments with loved ones. Whether you choose to prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, each step will bring you closer to a perfect result. Enjoy your meal!