Lemon Sole Risotto

Lemon Sole Risotto Recipe from Italy - Delicious Seafood Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lemon Sole Risotto is a delicious and creamy dish that combines the delicate flavor of sole with the richness of risotto. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

History

Risotto is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically made with arborio rice, which is known for its creamy texture when cooked. Lemon Sole Risotto adds a unique twist to this classic dish by incorporating fresh lemon juice and tender sole fillets.

Ingredients

0.75 lb (340 g) fresh or frozen sole fillets
2 tbsp butter or margarine, divided
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, divided
salt and ground black pepper
0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
0.5 cup chopped onion
1 cup uncooked U.S. arborio or medium-grain rice
0.06 tsp saffron
0.33 cup dry white wine
2 cup fish stock, divided
3 cup water
1 medium tomato, diced
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Place the fillets in a lightly buttered shallow baking dish.
Melt 1 tbsp of butter and mix it with 1 tbsp of lemon juice; brush the mixture over the fillets.
Sprinkle the fillets with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Broil the fillets at 350°F (177°C) for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Cut the fillets into chunks and set them aside.
Cook the onion in the remaining 1 tbsp of butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until it becomes soft.
Add the rice and saffron, and stir for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the wine and the remaining 1 tbsp of lemon juice. Stir until absorbed.
Increase the heat to medium-high and stir in 1 cup of stock.
Cook, uncovered, stirring frequently, until the stock is absorbed.
Continue stirring and adding the remaining 1 cup of stock and water, allowing each cup to be absorbed before adding another, until the rice is tender and the mixture has a creamy consistency. This will take approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
Stir in the tomato, cheese, and the reserved fillets. Serve immediately.

Variations

Substitute shrimp or scallops for the sole fillets.
Add diced asparagus or peas for extra color and flavor.
Use vegetable broth instead of fish stock for a vegetarian version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

- Stir the risotto frequently to ensure a creamy consistency.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

- Serve the risotto immediately to enjoy it at its best.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lemon Sole Risotto with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a perfect dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Broil the sole fillets for a quick and easy cooking method.

- Stir the risotto constantly to release the starches in the rice and create a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken broth instead of fish stock for a different flavor profile.

- Replace arborio rice with short-grain rice for a similar texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the risotto ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water to maintain its creamy consistency.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the risotto with fresh parsley or lemon zest for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it in individual bowls for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Lemon Sole Risotto with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the citrus flavors in the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the risotto gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to revive the creamy texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 320

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 38g

Fats

Total Fat: 9g

Saturated Fat: 3g

Proteins

Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

Vitamin C: 20%

Calcium: 15%

Iron: 8%

Alergens

Contains: Fish, Dairy

Summary

Lemon Sole Risotto is a balanced dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Lemon Sole Risotto is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the delicate taste of sole with the creamy richness of risotto. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy this dish with your loved ones for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold dear to my heart. It was a sunny afternoon in the summer of 1965, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in the charming coastal town of Amalfi, Italy. Maria was an incredible cook, and she had invited me over for lunch to sample her famous Lemon Sole Risotto.

As soon as I walked into Maria's cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. Maria was bustling around the stove, stirring a pot of creamy risotto with a wooden spoon. She had a twinkle in her eye as she explained the secret to making the perfect Lemon Sole Risotto.

"First, you need to start with the freshest ingredients," Maria said, her hands moving with precision as she added a splash of white wine to the risotto. "The key to a delicious risotto is to slowly add the broth, stirring constantly until it's absorbed by the rice."

I watched in awe as Maria expertly folded in the delicate fillets of Lemon Sole, their flesh turning a beautiful pearly white as they cooked in the creamy risotto. The dish was finished off with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice, adding a burst of brightness to the rich, savory flavors.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal on Maria's sun-drenched terrace overlooking the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean, I took my first bite of the Lemon Sole Risotto. The flavors danced on my taste buds, the tangy lemon perfectly complementing the delicate fish and creamy rice. It was a culinary masterpiece, a symphony of flavors that transported me to a place of pure bliss.

From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making Lemon Sole Risotto. I spent countless hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different techniques and ingredients until I finally found the perfect balance of flavors. Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, each time adding my own twist to make it uniquely my own.

I have collected recipes from all corners of the world, but none hold a special place in my heart quite like Maria's Lemon Sole Risotto. It is a dish that embodies the essence of summer, a celebration of the sea and sunshine that fills me with joy every time I make it.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that sunny afternoon in Amalfi, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of friendship and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. The memory of Maria's Lemon Sole Risotto will forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and magic that can be found in a simple dish made with love.