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+ servings
White bowl filled with spinach risotto and cubed pancetta.
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5 from 2 votes

Spinach Risotto with Pancetta

Savory pancetta and creamy spinach risotto is the perfect 30-minute meal for any day of the week.
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 2 Portions
Calories: 603kcal
Author: Elle John

Ingredients

  • 150 g Risotto Rice
  • 2 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • ½ White Onion finely chopped
  • 600 ml Vegetable or Chicken Broth
  • 125 g Spinach Leaves
  • 65 g Cubed Pancetta Unsmoked
  • 12-16 Fresh Basil Leaves
  • 3 tablespoon Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • Salt and Pepper to Taste

Instructions

  • Wash the basil and spinach leaves. Place them in a pan and cover with a lid.
  • Place the pan on low heat, and cook until the leaves are wilted, approximately 5 minutes.
  • Transfer the spinach and basil to a blender and blend until smooth. Add a couple of tablespoons of broth if necessary to help with the process. Set the spinach paste aside.
  • Prepare the chicken or vegetable stock and bring it to a light simmer. Keep it warm throughout the cooking process to ensure even results.
  • Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the thinly chopped onion and cubed pancetta and sauté until the onion turns translucent.
  • Next, increase the heat to high and add the rice.
  • Mix well, ensuring every grain is coated with the oil. Toast the rice until its edges start turning translucent, and it changes color, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low and begin adding the warm broth, one ladle or cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue like this until the rice is fully cooked. This process will take about 16-18 minutes.
  • Once the spinach risotto is 2 minutes from being ready, add the spinach puree and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan and mix well. Taste for seasoning.
  • Continue cooking until the risotto reaches your desired consistency.
  • Remove from the heat and allow to rest for a couple before serving.
  • Enjoy your pancetta and spinach risotto!

Notes

  • Storing and Reheating: Spinach risotto with pancetta is best enjoyed freshly made, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for a month. To reheat, thaw the risotto in the fridge if frozen, then gently warm it on the stove with a splash of broth or water, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture consistent. Here's our detailed guide on how to store and reheat rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 603kcal | Carbohydrates: 67g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 1504mg | Potassium: 585mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 6071IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 155mg | Iron: 5mg