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Spring Barley Risotto

High in iron, vitamins, and fiber, barley risotto is a nutritious (and quicker-cooking) alternative to a traditional risotto made with rice. This vegetarian dish also includes frozen peas, which are always available, easy to use, and contain nearly as many nutrients as fresh-picked. As a good source of chromium, peas also help control blood sugar levels.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 4

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup pearl barley
2 leeks, white and pale green parts only, thinly sliced, washed well and drained
1/2 cup dry white wine (or water)
2 cups water
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
2 cups homemade or low-sodium store-bought vegetable broth
1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), tough ends trimmed, cut on the diagonal into 2-inch lengths
1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup packed thinly sliced fresh mint leaves, plus whole small leaves for garnish

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium. Add barley and leeks; cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, 5 to 7 minutes. Add wine; cook, stirring, until evaporated, about 5 minutes. Add the water and bring to a boil; add 1/2 teaspoon salt and season with pepper to taste. Reduce heat; simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid has been absorbed, about 10 minutes.

    Step 2

    Add broth and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until barley is tender and liquid is creamy, about 10 minutes. Add asparagus; cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in peas and cook just until heated through. Remove from heat. Stir in parmesan and mint; season with pepper. Garnish with mint leaves, and serve.

  2. Nutrition Information

    Step 3

    (Per Serving)

    Step 4

    Calories: 426

    Step 5

    Saturated Fat: 2.9g

    Step 6

    Unsaturated Fat: 7.6g

    Step 7

    Cholesterol: 8.8mg

    Step 8

    Carbohydrates: 62.4g

    Step 9

    Protein: 15.7g

    Step 10

    Sodium: 465mg

    Step 11

    Fiber: 15.5g

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