Ingredients

4½cupslow-sodium chicken,or vegetable broth

2tspolive oil

⅓cupshallots,chopped

1cuparborio rice

2ozdry white wine

¾lbthin asparagus spears,tough ends trimmed, cut 2-inch long

2tspfresh lemon juice

¼cupfresh parsley,chopped

¼cupParmigiano-Reggiano,freshly grated, plus more for serving

salt and fresh cracked pepper,to taste

1tsplemon zest,grated, for garnish

Preparation

In a large saucepan, heat broth over medium-high heat.

When it boils, reduce heat to a simmer and maintain over low heat, taste for salt, and adjust as needed.

In a large heavy saucepan over medium heat, heat the oil and add the shallots; sauté 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the rice; mix well so the rice is coated throughout and saute until the rice is slightly translucent for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the wine and stir until it is absorbed.

Add a ladleful of the simmering stock; stir and wait until it is absorbed before adding another ladleful stirring gently and almost constantly.

Continue this process until the rice is creamy, tender to the bite but slightly firm in the center.

Add the asparagus along with the last ladle of broth and continue cooking for 5 minutes, total time should be about 25 to 30 minutes from the time you started.

When all the liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Serve immediately and top with fresh cracked pepper, lemon zest, and extra grated cheese if desired.