Saffron Baked Risotto Recipe

This Saffron Baked Risotto is the perfect combination of rich, savory flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it's also kiddo-approved, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will love it.

Spiked with a hearty dose of mood-boosting saffron and packed with wholesome vegetables, this dish is both nourishing and indulgent. It's a fantastic way to sneak in a daily dose of saffron for the whole family, all while keeping things simple and stress-free.

Whether you're looking for a quick dinner or a special dish to impress guests, this saffron risotto is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 Kinder Thoughts® saffron capsules (open the contents & discard the capsule shells)

• 3½ cups organic vegetable broth or chicken broth

• 1¼ cups arborio rice

• 3 tablespoons grass-fed cultured butter

• 2 medium organic shallots or 1 small white onion, minced

• 1 medium organic carrot, diced

• 1 organic celery stalk, diced

• 1 organic garlic clove, minced

• 1 pound organic zucchini (or another vegetable of choice), cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2½ cups finely grated organic Parmesan cheese

• Drizzle of high-quality, cold-pressed, organic olive oil

• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt (adjust to taste)

Assembly: 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Heat the broth in a saucepan over medium-low heat.

3. In a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallots, carrots, celery, and a pinch of salt. Cook until softened (about 4-5 minutes), stirring occasionally.

4. Add minced garlic and arborio rice, stirring for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Stir in 3 cups of the broth, then cover and transfer to the oven.

6. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven.

7. Open the Kinder Thoughts® saffron capsules and mix in the contents. Add the zucchini (or your chosen vegetable) 2 cups of Parmesan cheese, and the remaining broth. Stir to combine.

8. Cover and return to the oven for another 45 minutes.

9. Remove from the oven and stir in remaining Parmesan until combined.

10. Let sit for a minute or two, then drizzle with olive oil and serve.

*Serves 4