Asparagus & pea barley risotto

Approved by an Accredited Practising Dietitian

Why this recipe is good for you

This recipe is especially rich in Gut health, Fibre and Folate.

  • Gut health — A healthy gut supports digestion, immunity and even mood. Fibre-rich and fermented foods — like yoghurt, oats and legumes — feed the good bacteria that live there.
  • Fibre — Fibre supports healthy digestion, helps steady your blood sugar, and feeds the good bacteria in your gut.
  • Folate — Folate supports healthy cell growth and development, and is especially important in the months before and during pregnancy.

A creamy barley risotto with prebiotic asparagus and peas, using barley's fibre instead of arborio rice.

Lunch / Dinner · Serves 4 · Ready in 45 min · Rich in Gut health, Fibre, Folate

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups pearl barley
  • 1 bunch asparagus, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1L vegetable stock, warmed
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Method

  1. Heat the oil and soften the onion for a few minutes.
  2. Add the barley and stir for a minute to coat.
  3. Add the warm stock a ladle at a time, stirring and letting it absorb before adding more, about 30 minutes total.
  4. Stir through the asparagus and peas for the final 5 minutes of cooking.
  5. Finish with the parmesan and serve.

Tip: Barley contains gluten, unlike rice — not suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Roughly per serve

  • Protein: 9 g
  • Folate: 60 µg
  • Fibre: 8 g

Everyday recipes with approximate per-serve nutrient values estimated from AUSNUT and USDA food-composition data. A general guide, not individual advice.

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