Risotto can be a daunting meal to prepare – this Italian dish is known for being quite difficult to make properly. The most thing to remember when making a risotto is constant attention. The cook basically needs to stay over the pan, constantly stirring the rice, while occasionally adding additional stock to the grains in order to achieve that perfect risotto consistency. Once you’ve got the hang of that, below are some ways to jazz up the dish!

–        Mushrooms are known for being a fabulous complement to risotto. Their earthiness infiltrates the rice, adding interest and dimension to the dish. Try using porcini, baby bella, or chanterelle mushrooms, all work well. Top with freshly grated Parmesan.

–        Lemon is also a wonderful addition to risottos. Add fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and steamed asparagus to the dish for a light, refreshing meal that will truly impress.

–        In the fall, draw inspiration from seasonal produce. Try adding some roasted butternut squash for a subtle, comforting flavor.

–        Seafood risotto is also a very popular option. Incorporate cooked clams, mussels, scallops, and shrimp to add a variety of flavors and textures to the dish, and season with saffron and fresh lemon.

–        For a truly outstanding breakfast, prepare a traditional risotto and stir in cooked, crispy, crumbled bacon and some sharp cheese, like Swiss or Gruyere. Top with a poached egg and enjoy!