Seasonal Cooking: Spring Edition

Spring brings an abundance of fresh, vibrant ingredients that can transform your cooking. After the hearty meals of winter, spring offers lighter, more refreshing options.

Spring Vegetables to Look For

• Asparagus - At its peak in spring, with tender stalks and delicate flavor
• Artichokes - Complex in preparation but worth the effort for their unique flavor
• Peas - Sweet and versatile, fresh spring peas are nothing like their frozen counterparts
• Fava beans - Buttery and slightly sweet, they pair well with many spring dishes
• Ramps - These wild leeks have a short season but offer intense garlic-onion flavor

Simple Spring Recipe: Asparagus Risotto

This creamy risotto highlights the delicate flavor of spring asparagus.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch asparagus, woody ends removed, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, kept warm
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2 minutes, then shock in ice water to preserve color. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until grains are coated with oil and slightly translucent.
4. Pour in wine and stir until absorbed.
5. Begin adding warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and waiting for each addition to be absorbed before adding more.
6. After about 15 minutes, add the asparagus.
7. Continue adding broth until rice is creamy but still slightly firm to the bite, about 18-20 minutes total.
8. Remove from heat, stir in butter and Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.
9. Let stand for 2 minutes before serving.

Embrace the flavors of spring and let the season's bounty inspire your cooking!