March’s Feature: Spring’s First Taste
Fresh & Vibrant Spring Pea and Asparagus Risotto 🌿
A celebration of early spring flavors in Jasper Pickens County, GA!
Spring is finally here, and what better way to embrace the season than with a dish that highlights fresh, local produce? This Spring Pea and Asparagus Risotto is light, creamy, and bursting with the bright flavors of spring. Whether cooking for family or showcasing a dish at a community gathering, this risotto is the perfect way to welcome the new season!
What Makes This Dish Special? 🌱
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Showcases the best of spring produce—sweet peas, crisp asparagus, and zesty lemon
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Light yet rich and creamy, making it comforting but not too heavy
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Perfect as a standalone dish or served alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a simple salad
🌸 Recipe: Spring Pea and Asparagus Risotto
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1 ½ cups Arborio rice
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4 cups vegetable broth (kept warm)
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1 cup dry white wine (or additional broth)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
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1 cup fresh or frozen peas
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½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
1️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
2️⃣ Toast the Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges of the grains turn slightly translucent.
3️⃣ Add Wine: Pour in the white wine and stir until absorbed.
4️⃣ Cook the Risotto: Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. Continue for about 18-20 minutes.
5️⃣ Add Spring Vegetables: Stir in the asparagus and peas. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
6️⃣ Finish with Flavor: Remove from heat and mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt and pepper.
7️⃣ Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh parsley and enjoy!
🍽️ Want to Share Your Favorite Recipe?
Do you have a favorite spring or summer dish that deserves the spotlight? Plates of Pickens is always looking for local flavors and homegrown recipes from our Jasper Pickens County community. Whether it’s a cherished family tradition, a creative twist on a classic dish, or a seasonal favorite, we want to feature YOU!
📩 Submit Your Recipe! Reach out to us through our contact page and be part of next month’s feature.
📌 Stay tuned for next month’s fresh and seasonal creation from Dana’s Kitchen!
Let’s Bring Your Culinary Story to Life!
Have a recipe that deserves the spotlight? Don’t wait—let’s make it happen! Call us today at 706-253-2818 or schedule a consultation directly at www.speakwithbethcompton.com. We can’t wait to share your story and your flavors with Pickens County!
Let’s celebrate the flavors of Pickens together! 🍴💛
#PlatesOfPickens #TasteOfPickens #LocalFlavors
