This gorgeously green dish is light and refreshing, perfect for summer nights. It's rich in phytochemicals, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals which rejuvenate your body and help prevent diseases. The special ingredient is extra virgin olive oil which adds richness and takes the flavour to new heights, not to mention its is rich in monounsaturated fats which is linked to healthy heart function.
It's important to buy and use high quality ingredients in this dish so you can appreciate the natural flavours and get the best out of your ingredients. Olive oil is no exception. I recommend using olive oil that is as natural and pure as you can find. In this dish, I used oil which was pressed by a family friend. The spinach should be as fresh and possible to get that characteristic vibrant green colour.
I used frozen peas since I didn't have any fresh peas. If you’re using fresh peas, simply blanch them for 30-60 seconds instead if the given 3 minutes.
Serve the dish with flat grated Grana Padano. If you are vegan or vegetarian, you can substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast or grated dairy-free alternative.
Risotto Verde
Serves 1
Vegan and heart friendly
Ingredients
75g of Arborio rice
500ml of vegetable stock
50g of spinach, washed
75g of frozen peas (1/2 cup)
2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon of lemon juice
Black pepper and salt
Your choice of cheese or nutritional yeast
Method
Place the rice in a pan and add 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil. Mix and heat on a low temperature setting for 2 minutes
Add 3/4 of the stock. Cover with the lid and simmer for 15 minutes
Blanch the peas by placing them in boiling water for 3 minutes, 30-60 seconds if you are using fresh peas.
Take the peas out of the water and let them cool in ice until they reach room temperature.
In a blender add the spinach, the rest of the olive oil, the lemon juice and a few grinds of pepper & salt and 2 tablespoons of stock.
Blitz until a smooth puree. If it is too thick for your liking, add more stock.
Drain the rice and mix with the green sauce.
Plate up and serve with flakes of cheese of your choice, or nutritional yeast.
I hope you like this, if you tried making this tell us what you think!
Noor xo
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