Imagine diving into a creamy, decadent risotto that's not only incredibly delicious but also guilt-free and packed with flavor! This Cheesy Low Carb Cauliflower Risotto in Creamy Pesto Sauce is about to revolutionize your healthy eating game, proving that low-carb doesn't mean low-taste. Perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake or simply looking for a nutritious twist on a classic Italian favorite, this recipe transforms humble cauliflower into a restaurant-worthy dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, grated
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower by washing it thoroughly and using a box grater or food processor to rice the entire head into small, grain-like pieces resembling traditional risotto rice.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the grated cauliflower and vegetable broth, stirring to combine and ensure the cauliflower is evenly coated.
- Cook the cauliflower rice for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The texture should be similar to al dente rice.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, creating a smooth and creamy base for the risotto.
- Add the pesto sauce and mix thoroughly, ensuring the cauliflower is evenly coated with the vibrant green sauce.
- Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to help the cheese melt and create a rich, creamy texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Grate the cauliflower as uniformly as possible to ensure even cooking and the most authentic risotto-like texture.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent burning and promote even heat distribution.
- For extra flavor, consider using homemade pesto or toasting the parmesan cheese slightly before adding.
- If the risotto seems too thick, add a little extra vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.
- Fresh basil as a garnish can elevate the presentation and add a burst of fresh flavor.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
