Creamy risotto (one of Italy's comfort foods) is embellished with pieces of cooked, fresh asparagus, parsley and Romano cheese. Properly cooked risotto requires constant attention and stirring...it is a dish made with much care and patience.

Asparagus Risotto

1 pound fresh asparagus
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup uncooked U.S. arborio or medium grain rice
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/3 cup grated Romano cheese
Salt to taste (optional)

1. Wash asparagus and cut off tough stalk ends. Boil in large saucepan in salted water 12 minutes. Drain, reserving cooking liquid; cut off asparagus tips. Set aside.
2. Cook onion and garlic in oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add rice; stir 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in 1 cup reserved asparagus liquid. Cook, uncovered, stirring frequently, until liquid is absorbed. Continue stirring and adding remaining asparagus liquid and enough water to bring total amount of liquid added to 5 cups, allowing each to be absorbed before adding another. Rice should be tender and mixture should have a creamy consistency. It will take approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
3. Stir in asparagus, parsley, cheese and salt, if desired.

Makes 6 servings.

Recipe provided courtesy of USA Rice Federation.