Sweet Corn Risotto

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that captures the essence of summer, then Sweet Corn Risotto is just what you need! This creamy, dreamy risotto celebrates the sweet, juicy corn that is at its peak during the warmer months. It’s not only delicious but also a dish that brings people together—perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Trust me; once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a favorite in my home.

The beauty of this Sweet Corn Risotto lies in its simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients. Using the entire corn cob enhances the flavor, making each spoonful burst with seasonal goodness. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish, this risotto is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a little time and patience, you can create a creamy risotto that feels gourmet.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish filled with sweet corn flavors.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or paired with your favorite protein for extra heartiness.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the risotto in advance and reheat when you’re ready to serve—great for busy nights!
• Naturally meatless: Enjoy it as is, or easily adapt it to suit vegetarian or vegan diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome—just what you need for a delicious meal! Gather up these fresh items and let’s get cooking!

• 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 (see Recipe Notes)
• 1/2 cup dry, unoaked white grape juice, such as 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

This Sweet Corn Risotto is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use grilled chicken or shrimp instead of turkey strips for a different flavor profile.
• Add greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Try different cheeses: If you’re looking for something unique, substitute parmesan with feta or goat cheese for added tanginess.
• Go vegan: Replace the butter with olive oil and omit the cheese to make it completely plant-based!

How to Make Sweet Corn Risotto

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by adding your vegetable stock along with the spent corn cobs and bay leaf to a large pot over high heat. We want this mixture to come to a gentle simmer before we lower the heat. This step is crucial because infusing all those flavors into the broth will make your risotto shine!

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In another pot or Dutch oven, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in your diced onion along with some kosher salt. Cooking until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes) allows those natural sugars in the onion to caramelize slightly, creating a lovely base flavor. Then stir in 2 cloves of garlic and cook until fragrant—this will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Next up is adding in the arborio rice! Stir it around for about 2-3 minutes until it’s lightly toasted. This step helps develop nutty flavors that elevate your risotto further.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Corn

Pour in that refreshing grape juice to deglaze your pot—scraping any bits stuck at the bottom adds more depth! Once that’s evaporated, toss in kernels from two ears of sweet corn along with diced bell pepper. It’s time to start adding our warm corn stock one cup at a time while stirring frequently. This process allows each bit of rice to absorb all those amazing flavors—a key part of achieving that perfect creamy texture.

Step 5: Sauté Topping

As your risotto simmers away, let’s prepare our topping! In a small skillet, melt half a tablespoon of reserved butter before adding turkey strips. Cook them until they begin rendering their juices before tossing in remaining sweet corn kernels and garlic. Sauté until everything is beautifully cooked—this will add delightful texture on top of your creamy risotto!

Step 6: Finish Your Risotto

Once your arborio rice reaches that perfect al dente stage (around 20-25 minutes), finish it off by stirring in the last tablespoon of butter along with grated parmesan cheese. Give it another taste—seasoning with salt and pepper as needed will ensure every bite is just right.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, serve up your Sweet Corn Risotto warm! Top it generously with that tasty turkey strips sweet corn mixture along with some fresh herbs if you like. Don’t forget extra parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper—it’s all about those finishing touches! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Corn Risotto

Making sweet corn risotto is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can take your dish to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and high-quality vegetable broth will enhance the flavor of your risotto. The sweetness of fresh corn shines through, making each bite a burst of summer.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring helps release the starches from the arborio rice, creating that creamy texture we all love in risotto. It also prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Checking for doneness throughout the cooking process allows you to achieve the perfect al dente texture. This way, you can adjust cooking time according to your preference.
• Add Stock Gradually: Incorporating the stock one ladleful at a time gives the rice ample opportunity to absorb flavors and moisture. This method is key to achieving that luxurious creaminess.
• Finish with Butter and Cheese: A final stir of butter and grated cheese brings everything together, enriching the flavors and making your risotto incredibly indulgent.

How to Serve Sweet Corn Risotto

Serving sweet corn risotto can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas that will elevate your presentation and make it even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the risotto.
• Extra Parmesan: A light dusting of freshly grated parmesan on top not only enhances flavor but also makes for an appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy risotto.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover risotto on your plate, adding a crunchy texture alongside your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring additional flavor and color to your table.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: For those looking for some protein, grilled chicken or fish pairs beautifully with sweet corn risotto while keeping with lighter fare.

Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions to create a lovely dining experience! Enjoy every creamy spoonful of your delicious sweet corn risotto!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Corn Risotto is perfect for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a delicious make-ahead dinner.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the risotto cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the risotto into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen risotto in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.
• Stir frequently until heated through, adjusting seasoning as needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Sweet Corn Risotto that might help you in your cooking journey!

Can Sweet Corn Risotto be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Sweet Corn Risotto in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage tips above to ensure it stays fresh!

What can I serve with Sweet Corn Risotto?

Sweet Corn Risotto pairs beautifully with sautéed vegetables, grilled chicken, or turkey strips. For a meatless option, consider serving it with a refreshing salad or roasted mushrooms!

How long does Sweet Corn Risotto last in the fridge?

When properly stored in an airtight container, your Sweet Corn Risotto will last about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Sweet Corn Risotto vegan?

Yes! To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese and use a plant-based butter alternative. The flavors will still be deliciously rich!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Sweet Corn Risotto as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to savor the end of summer with its fresh flavors and comforting creaminess. Whether you serve it on its own or topped with your favorite protein, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!