Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion , finely chopped
7 ounces pearl barley
2 pints vegetable stock
5 ounces peas
3 1/2 ounces fat-free cream cheese with chives
1 bunch chives , snipped
Looking for a healthier take on the classic risotto recipe? Look no further than this Creamy Pea & Chive Pearl Barley Risotto. Made with fat-free cream cheese and loaded with nutrient-rich vegetables like peas and chives, this dish is a great way to enjoy comfort food without compromising your health goals. Pearl barley is the star of this dish, delivering a chewy texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese and the freshness of the peas and chives. Whether you're a fan of risotto or cooking with barley for the first time, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Instructions

1.Heat the oil in a large saucepan and cook the onion over medium heat for 5 minutes until softened.
2.Add the pearl barley and vegetable stock, bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 25-30 minutes, until the barley is tender.
3.Stir in the peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are cooked through.
4.Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fat-free cream cheese with chives and snipped chives until the cheese has melted and the risotto is creamy.
5.Serve hot, garnished with additional chives if desired.

PROS

This risotto is a healthier, reduced-fat twist on the classic dish, thanks to the use of fat-free cream cheese.
It is high in dietary fiber and loaded with healthy vegetables like peas and chives.

Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home.

CONS

The dish may require some patience as pearl barley takes longer to cook than rice used in traditional risottos.
It may also take some time to adjust to the slightly different taste and texture compared to regular risotto.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is high in dietary fiber which can help regulate digestion, prevent constipation, and lower cholesterol levels. The incorporation of vegetables like peas and chives adds important nutrients like vitamin K and vitamin C, which support immune function and help prevent disease.

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