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Risotto, a staple of Italian cuisine, is celebrated for its creamy texture and remarkable versatility. This classic dish is often associated with comfort, warmth, and the ability to showcase a variety of flavors through the careful selection of ingredients. Among the myriad of risotto variations, the Sweet Corn Risotto Bowl stands out as a delightful option that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This dish is not only comforting but also highlights the sweetness of fresh, seasonal corn, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.

Sweet Corn Risotto Bowls

Discover the comforting delight of Sweet Corn Risotto Bowls, a must-try dish that brings the essence of summer to your table. This creamy Italian classic features Arborio rice, fresh sweet corn, and aromatic herbs, making for a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this risotto is versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies or cheeses. Enjoy the rich flavors and irresistible texture of this gourmet meal!

Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups Arborio rice

5 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup dry white wine (optional, can be replaced with additional broth)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

Prepare the Broth: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Keep it warm but ensure it does not boil, as this will be added to the rice later.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and allow it to cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden.

      Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir the mixture well to coat the rice with the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes until the edges appear slightly translucent.

        Add Wine: If you choose to use wine, pour it into the skillet now. Stir continuously until the liquid is mostly absorbed by the rice, which should take about 2 minutes.

          Gradually Add Broth: Begin adding the warm vegetable broth to the rice mixture, one ladle at a time. Stir frequently, ensuring that each ladleful is fully absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for approximately 18-20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and cooked to an al dente texture.

            Incorporate Corn: When the rice is almost cooked to perfection, stir in the sweet corn kernels. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the corn is heated through and incorporates its sweetness into the risotto.

              Finish the Risotto: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, the grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option), lemon zest, and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well until the risotto achieves a creamy consistency.

                Serve: Ladle the risotto into individual bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle a little olive oil over the risotto before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                    Presentation Tips: Serve the risotto with a wedge of lemon on the side for a splash of color and added zest. Place a few whole basil leaves atop the dish for an elegant finish.