Creamy Risotto with Thyme-Scented Cremini

Creamy Risotto with Thyme-Scented CreminiCreamy Risotto with Thyme-Scented Cremini

A generous container of mushrooms from a Costco run, leftover from our fabulous Filet Mignon Stew, inspired this risotto — a way to turn extra cremini into something both comforting and refined.

Creamy Arborio rice embraces a full pound of thyme-scented cremini, enriched with a pat of butter and a touch of Parmesan, while fresh parsley adds a bright, finishing note. Familiar ingredients come together in a way that feels elevated, making this classic risotto special enough to share.

Creamy Risotto with Thyme-Scented Cremini Recipe

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Spinach Mushroom Risotto with Pecans

vegetarian risotto
Spinach Mushroom Risotto with Toasted Pecans
Chiffonade of Fresh Spinach Garnish

Combining two favorite risotto dishes – spinach risotto and mushroom risotto, into one – and adding toasted pecans plus an unexpected garnish of fresh spinach ribbons equals one bright and satisfying vegetarian meal. Crunchy toasted pecans contrast the creamy risotto, earthy caramelized mushrooms complement tender wilted baby spinach. A sprinkle of Parmesan and glass of wine were the only accompaniments.

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Shiitake Mushroom Risotto with Shrimp

I’m making no apologies for this dish. It comes from a box.
Cooking time approximately 20 minutes.
Active cooking time approximately 60 seconds!

Take raw peeled deveined shrimp from the freezer and run under cold water.
Active time 15 seconds.

Meanwhile add the contents of a box of shiitake mushroom risotto to a pot along with water and cook according to package directions (I substituted one cup of beef broth for a portion of the water), a generous tablespoon of butter, and a splash of tamari.
The beef broth and the tamari enhance the umami flavors.
Active time 30 seconds.
Stir occasionally, 10 seconds (5 seconds X 2).

Add shrimp to the pot about 5 minutes before the risotto is done.
Active time 5 seconds.


Gourmet, no.
Tasty, yes.

If I had some snipped chives, I might have added those…hmmm, and maybe a drizzle of truffle oil, 10 more seconds 🙂


This is Safeway brand risotto. Flavored with onion, garlic, herbs, and spices.

From the box side panel, “With Safeway Select you’ll feel like a culinary genius.”
Haha.

Your Culinary Genius, signing off…