Asparagus and Shrimp Risotto

Risotto making is a process that requires patience. But it’s a gentle, easy, fun kind of patience. Some people might not enjoy stirring a pot of rice almost constantly for nearly 25 minutes. I do, even thinking of myself as a person who is not very patient. 

For me, risotto is a dish that brings people together around the stove. The wooden spoon can be passed through different hands, while everyone sips on wine and watch the grains of Arborio swell. The scents coming from the pan intensify as wine and broth are added. It’s such fun to share with loved ones.

Risotto is one of my favorite Italian dishes and, being a stubborn Brazilian with an appetite for twists, I could not help but add some not so traditional moves to the dish. For example, if risotto is made the proper way, Italians do not add any butter or cream at the end. Well, I still do. Just because I love it.

Risotto is quite a versatile recipe too. It can be turned into a very rich course, like a four-cheese risotto. Or it can be made into an earthy dish, like a mushroom risotto. Or it can be a perfect recipe for spring, like this Asparagus and Shrimp Risotto – which also gets a touch of lemon juice and lemon zest. This risotto is light, yet satisfying. I make this recipe at least once a year, sometimes more. It’s a family affair for us – it was my sweet sister who taught me this one and we love to cook risotto together!

Enjoy with a crispy white. Happy Spring!

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Banana-Caramel Meringue Pie

Dulce de Leche, bananas and meringue are a delicious and rich combination, but the lime zest adds a citrous bite and makes it irresistible! This pie is super easy and super delicious!!! Serve with vanilla ice cream on the side, if you wish. 

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Hummus Duo – Coconut Milk-Ginger, and Cilantro

Hummus is a very nutritious and easy to make appetizer. It is great for large parties.

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Coconut Flan

It takes only 5 ingredients to make this delcious South American delight. Simply delicious!

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Chocolate Cheesecake with Passion Fruit Sauce

Passion fruit and chocolate is a classic combination in Brazilian cuisine, but this chocolate cheesecake has also an unexpected twist: vanilla balsamic! The passion fruit sauce adds a tropical touch to this decadent dessert.

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Quinoa with Sausage, Pine Nuts and Spinach

Quinoa is a very healthy grain and it can be used as a more nutritional alternative to rice or pasta. 

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Fish Roulade with Hearts-of-Palm and Mascarpone, over Olive-Apricot Tapenade

I used cod in this roulade, but it can be made with sole or tilapia too. The process is very simple (the only fancy thing about it is its name!) but the presentation is very pretty. My version of tapenade has dried apricots for a sweeter touch and it can also be served as a dip for crackers or bread. Enjoy with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris.

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Figs, Hearts-of-Palm and Arugula Salad

This salad has just enough sweetness to break the bitterness of the arugula. Perfect for spring!

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Shrimp in Red Sauce, Cream Cheese and Roasted Rosemary Potatoes

The cream cheese adds richness to this shrimp dish. I used Catupiry (the Brazilian style cream cheese) and I made this recipe while spending time with my family in the beach town of Camboriú, Brazil.

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Fig and Prosciutto Risotto

The sweetness of the fruit balances the prosciutto and cheese in this delicious dish. 

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