Bitter Greens and Anchovy Risotto with Toasted Walnuts
This risotto offers a sophisticated balance of bitter and savory notes, featuring tender Arborio rice simmered with a medley of peppery greens and the briny intensity of anchovies. Toasted walnuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty counterpoint, making for a deeply satisfying and complex Italian dinner.

Prep Time
45 min
Difficulty
Medium
Servings
4
Calories
450 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Warm the vegetable broth in a large pot over low heat. Keep it simmering.
- 2
Finely chop the shallot and mince the garlic. Roughly chop the bitter greens.
~5 min - 3
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
~4 min - 4
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
~1 min - 5
Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir it constantly for 2 minutes, toasting the grains until the edges are slightly translucent.
~2 min - 6
Pour in the white wine and stir until it is completely absorbed by the rice.
~3 min - 7
Add the anchovy fillets to the rice and stir to break them down and distribute them evenly.
~2 min - 8
Begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently until each addition is almost fully absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is al dente – tender but with a slight bite.
~20 min - 9
While the risotto is cooking, toast the chopped walnuts in a dry frying pan over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Set aside.
~5 min - 10
Once the risotto has reached the desired consistency, stir in the chopped bitter greens and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
~3 min - 11
Remove the risotto from the heat. Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
~2 min - 12
Serve the risotto immediately, garnished with the toasted walnuts.
Tips
- For an even richer flavor, you can use fish broth instead of vegetable broth if you don't mind a stronger seafood profile.
- Ensure you stir the risotto frequently throughout the cooking process. This releases the starch from the rice, creating the creamy texture characteristic of risotto.
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