| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 10g | 1.5g | 55g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 3g | 7g | 0.75g |
Every time I make Vegan Lemon Balm Risotto, it reminds me of the simpler days in Nebraska where nature’s bounty was our greatest treasure. The delicate lemon balm brings a vibrant freshness, while the trio of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of flavor that’s both unexpected and delightful.
Why Vegan Lemon Balm Risotto is Special
Growing up in Nebraska, our family meals were often rooted in tradition, but I also love exploring new flavors and ingredients. This Vegan Lemon Balm Risotto not only combines the hearty comfort of traditional risotto but also elevates it with fresh, fruity notes. The lemon balm, with its subtle citrusy touch, pairs brilliantly with the berries, making this dish unique yet comforting.
One of the major health benefits of this recipe is its vegan nature. With a base of Arborio rice, it provides a good source of carbohydrates, while the nutritional yeast contributes an ample amount of vitamin B12—something often lacking in vegan diets. The berries bring a wealth of antioxidants, which are crucial for combating oxidative stress and maintaining overall health.
Versatility on the Plate
This Vegan Lemon Balm Risotto shares similarities with traditional Italian risottos, yet its flavor profile makes it stand out. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed either warm or cold, and it pairs wonderfully with a simple leafy salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For those with a sweet tooth, serving it alongside a lightly sweetened yogurt can be a delectable treat.
One might think of this dish as a cross between a savory risotto and a dessert-like fruit salad. The vibrant colors from the strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries make it visually stunning and perfect for a summertime meal. If you’re a fan of recipes like [Lemon Asparagus Risotto](https://minimalistbaker.com/lemon-asparagus-risotto/), this dish offers a fresh twist that will surely delight your taste buds.
So next time you’re looking for a dish that marries heartland comfort with innovative flavors, give Vegan Lemon Balm Risotto a try. It’s a wholesome, delicious meal that brings together the best of tradition and creativity.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups Arborio rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup fresh lemon balm leaves, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup strawberries, diced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Heat the vegetable broth in a medium saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.
Step Two
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step Three
Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir to coat the rice with the oil, onion, and garlic mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice starts to become translucent at the edges.
Step Four
Pour in the cup of dry white wine and stir constantly until the wine has been absorbed by the rice.
Step Five
Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb most of the broth before adding another ladleful. Continue this process until the rice is cooked al dente and has a creamy consistency. This should take about 18-20 minutes.
Step Six
Stir in the fresh lemon balm leaves, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step Seven
Gently fold in the diced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the berries.
Step Eight
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the nutritional yeast. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step Nine
Serve the Vegan Lemon Balm Risotto immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest and a few fresh lemon balm leaves if desired.
