Asparagus and Lemon Risotto
Asparagus and Lemon Risotto is a creamy Italian rice dish where Arborio rice is slowly cooked in broth with tender asparagus spears and bright lemon zest. It typically features Parmesan cheese, white wine, and a rich, velvety texture achieved through gradual stirring and broth addition.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is moderately high in carbohydrates from the rice, with a good amount of protein from the cheese and some healthy fats from olive oil and butter. It provides key nutrients like vitamin C from the lemon, vitamin K from the asparagus, and a rough calorie ballpark is around 400-500 per serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Calcium | 110 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg |
| Vitamin K | 45 mcg |
| Folate | 120 mcg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Risotto is a classic example of Italian 'cucina povera' (peasant cooking) turned gourmet, where simple, inexpensive ingredients are transformed into a luxurious meal through technique. Nutritionally, the combination of asparagus and lemon not only adds vibrant flavor but also enhances iron absorption due to the vitamin C in the lemon.
