Lemon and Herb Risotto Cake

This unusual Italian rice dish can be served as a low fat main course with salad or as a satisfying side dish. It is also good served cold, and packs well for picnics.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 55 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
• Calories: 177 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1 ½ teaspoons grated lemon zest
• salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 sprigs fresh parsley, for garnish
• 1 lemon - cut into wedges, for garnish
• 1 cup uncooked short-grain white rice
• 1 leek, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 2 ½ cups chicken stock, divided

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Place the leek and 3 tablespoons of the chicken stock in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, and cook for about 5 minutes, until leek is tender. Add the rice, and the remaining chicken stock, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 2

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9 inch springform pan.

Step 3

When the rice is tender, remove the pan from the heat, and stir in the lemon zest, chives, parsley and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon into the springform pan, and spread evenly. Cover the top of the pan with aluminum foil.

Step 4

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until firm and lightly browned. Run a thin spatula or knife around the outer edge of the pan, and invert the cake onto a serving plate. Serve hot or cold, sliced into wedges. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.