This Lentil & Leek Risotto is a hearty, plant-based twist on the classic Italian comfort food. By swapping Arborio rice for tender lentils, you get a protein-packed meal that cooks faster while maintaining that signature creamy texture. The sweetness of the slowly caramelized leeks balances perfectly with the earthy lentils. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner that feels luxurious without the fuss. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of herbs for a satisfying, wholesome main course that the whole family will love.
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Lentil & Leek Risotto [T]
Description
This Lentil & Leek Risotto is a hearty, plant-based twist on the classic Italian comfort food. By swapping Arborio rice for tender lentils, you get a protein-packed meal that cooks faster while maintaining that signature creamy texture. The sweetness of the slowly caramelized leeks balances perfectly with the earthy lentils. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal weeknight dinner that feels luxurious without the fuss. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of herbs for a satisfying, wholesome main course that the whole family will love.Ingredients
Directions
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Wash and trim the leeks, removing the tough green tops, then slice them thinly.
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Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and sauté the sliced leeks until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add rinsed lentils to the pan and stir to coat them in the oil and leek mixture.
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Pour in vegetable broth, ensuring the liquid covers the lentils by about an inch.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.
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Stir occasionally, adding more broth if needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
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Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 61.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 40.0mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 14.0g5%
- Dietary Fiber 1.8g8%
- Sugars 5.0g
- Protein 1.6g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a richer texture, stir in a splash of plant-based cream or nutritional yeast at the end.
Green lentils hold their shape best for this style of dish, but brown lentils also work well.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
If the leeks are particularly sandy, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes before chopping and draining well.
