Sweet Corn Risotto

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of summer, look no further than this Sweet Corn Risotto! This creamy and comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It celebrates the last of the sweet corn season, making it a delightful way to enjoy those golden kernels before they’re gone. The best part? You’ll use every bit of the corn, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

This Sweet Corn Risotto is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it as a main course or as a side dish. Plus, it’s naturally meatless but can easily be adjusted to fit your dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in less than an hour.
• Incredible flavor: The use of fresh sweet corn and homemade veggie broth infuses the risotto with vibrant seasonal taste.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and sweet pops of corn.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prepare it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Customizable: This recipe allows for various toppings and mix-ins, so feel free to get creative!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that highlight the fresh flavors of summer. Here’s what you’ll need for this Sweet Corn Risotto:

For the Risotto

• 7 cups vegetable stock or broth
• 1 dried bay leaf
• optional: 1 parmesan rind
• 3 ears sweet corn, kernels sliced off of cob & divided
• 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 sweet onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated & divided
• 1 1/4 cups arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry, unoaked white grape juice (like Pinot Grigio)
• 1 orange bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup grated parmesan (approx. 2 ounces)
• 4 ounces diced turkey strips
• kosher salt & ground black pepper, to season

Variations

One of the best things about this Sweet Corn Risotto is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you might want to try:

• Swap the protein: Instead of turkey strips, try sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken for a heartier option.
• Add greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale at the end for a nutrient boost and extra color.
• Try different cheeses: If you’re looking for a twist on flavor, substitute parmesan with feta or goat cheese.
• Make it vegan: Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.

How to Make Sweet Corn Risotto

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetable Broth

Start by adding the vegetable stock, spent corn cobs, bay leaf, and parmesan rind (if you’re using it) into a large pot over high heat. Bring everything to a simmer before reducing it to low heat. This step is crucial because infusing your broth with corn cobs enhances the overall flavor of your risotto!

Step 2: Cook the Onions

In another large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add in your diced onion along with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir occasionally until they become softened and translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. The sweetness from the onions brings depth to your risotto!

Step 3: Toast the Arborio Rice

Now it’s time to stir in your arborio rice! Cook it for about 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally until it’s lightly toasted. This step helps develop that wonderful nutty flavor that makes risotto so special.

Step 4: Deglaze & Add Veggies

Pour in your dry grape juice and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of your pot—this adds even more flavor! Once evaporated, reduce heat to medium-low and stir in kernels from two ears of corn and diced bell pepper.

Step 5: Incorporate Stock Gradually

Begin adding your warm corn stock one cup at a time into your risotto mixture. Stir frequently until all of each addition is absorbed before adding more stock. Taste after about 15 minutes; you want that perfect al dente texture!

Step 6: Prepare Your Topping

While your risotto simmers away, let’s prepare that quick turkey topping! Melt ½ tablespoon reserved butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add turkey strips and cook until they start rendering down; then toss in remaining sweet corn kernels and garlic until everything is crispy and golden.

Step 7: Finish Your Risotto

Once your arborio rice reaches that creamy perfection (about 20-25 minutes), stir in another tablespoon of unsalted butter along with grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Now you’re ready to plate up! Serve immediately topped with your turkey mixture, fresh herbs if you like, extra parmesan, and lots of freshly cracked black pepper. Enjoy every luscious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Corn Risotto

Making risotto can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll create a dish that’s creamy and bursting with flavor!

• Use fresh corn: Freshly cut sweet corn offers the best taste and texture compared to frozen or canned options, ensuring your risotto is as vibrant as possible.
• Stir frequently: Consistent stirring not only helps release the starches from the arborio rice but also prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot, resulting in a creamy consistency.
• Taste as you go: Regularly tasting your risotto allows you to achieve the perfect al dente texture. It also gives you control over seasoning, ensuring each spoonful is just right!
• Keep stock warm: Adding cold stock can shock the cooking process. Keeping your broth warm ensures that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs flavors more effectively.
• Finish with butter and cheese: Stirring in a bit of butter and grated cheese at the end adds richness and depth to your risotto, creating that luscious creaminess we all love.

How to Serve Sweet Corn Risotto

When it comes to serving sweet corn risotto, presentation can truly enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds color and freshness, complementing the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
• Lemon zest: A little grated lemon zest brightens up the dish with a zesty kick that balances out the creaminess.
• Extra parmesan: Offering additional grated parmesan on the side lets guests customize their servings for an extra cheesy delight.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich risotto.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add both color and texture while enhancing the meal’s overall healthiness.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for those who love dipping; it pairs well with creamy dishes like risotto.
• Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned grilled shrimp skewers add protein without overpowering the sweet corn flavors in the risotto.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only prepare an exquisite sweet corn risotto but also create an inviting dining experience for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Sweet Corn Risotto is a wonderful recipe for meal prep! Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious comfort food ready to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the risotto to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the risotto cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen risotto overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.
• Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sweet Corn Risotto:

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn for Sweet Corn Risotto?

Yes, you can use canned corn if fresh isn’t available. Drain and rinse it thoroughly before adding it to your risotto. However, fresh corn provides a sweeter flavor and better texture.

How do I make Sweet Corn Risotto vegan?

To make Sweet Corn Risotto vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. Use plant-based butter instead of unsalted butter for a fully vegan dish!

What makes this Sweet Corn Risotto special?

This Sweet Corn Risotto stands out because it utilizes both fresh corn kernels and spent cobs in the broth, creating a rich depth of flavor that truly captures the essence of summer corn.

Can I prepare Sweet Corn Risotto ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Sweet Corn Risotto ahead of time and store leftovers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just follow the storage guidelines above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to try making this delightful Sweet Corn Risotto! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of summer flavors and comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, each creamy bite is sure to bring warmth and joy. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients!