An Easy Leek, Asparagus + Kale Risotto

Short brown rice makes a creamy risotto that gets a boost of color from a bounty of spring vegetables.

Brown rice is a great source of fiber and really makes a wonderful, creamy risotto. Arborio rice is the classic choice, yet I love the nutty flavor of the short-grain brown variety—and couldn't we all use some extra fiber in our diet?

And there's no need to stir for 45 minutes; with my technique, you do most of the stirring at the beginning. Once the rice will have started to absorb the broth, it lets off some of its starch, then you can add the remaining broth, cover, and simmer over low heat until creamy.

My favorite trick: Sauté the green veggies first, then add them to the almost finished risotto in the last step. They will retain their color and vitamins—a beautiful bright-tasting and -looking risotto is the result.

Serves 6 to 8

Preparation

1. Place the leeks in a bowl with plenty of cold water; swish around to remove dirt; strain and dry. Cut off the asparagus tips; slice the asparagus spears ⅓-inch thick—reserve all.

2. For the veggies: In a heavy, nonreactive 6-quart pot, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, and place over medium heat.

3. Add the asparagus, kale, leeks, jalapeño, and tarragon. Sauté for 3 minutes until the colors pop, and vegetables are crisp-tender. Add the peas (fresh or frozen), stir to combine—no need to cook them. Remove the vegetables to a bowl; wipe the pan clean.

4. For the risotto: Place vegetable broth in a pot to hold, bring to a bare simmer while you start the risotto.

5. Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil to the 6-quart pot. Add the scallions, garlic, and rice; cook for 2 minutes over medium heat. Add the wine; stir until it has evaporated.

6. Add 1 cup of hot broth to the pan; stir until it's all been absorbed, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining 5 cups of broth; bring to a boil; stir once, then cover and lower the heat to a simmer.

7. In 25 minutes, the broth should be somewhat absorbed. Uncover, and stir up until creamy and a bit brothy. To finish: Add the sautéed vegetables and 1 tablespoon cold butter.

8. Give a big stir, and warm through over low heat until creamy—just 1 minute. Do not overcook at this step; you will lose the bright color. The vegetables should be tender-crisp, and the risotto a bright green color. Remove from the heat, stir in Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and taste for seasonings.