Creamy Vegan Risotto with Quinoa, Asparagus, and Cauliflower

Step 1

Place a rack in the upper and lower thirds of your oven and preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Coat two large rimmed baking sheets with nonstick spray.

Step 2

Place 3 cups cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 teaspoons olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and a pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon) black pepper. Toss to coat, then spread in a single layer on one baking sheet. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, until tender and caramelized, tossing once halfway through.

Step 3

Meanwhile, spread the artichokes in a single layer on top of several paper towels. Place a few additional sheets of paper towels on top, then press gently to remove excess water. Transfer the artichokes to a large mixing bowl. Trim the asparagus and cut into 1 1/2-inch diagonal slices, then add to the bowl with the artichokes. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss to coat, then spread into a single layer on the second baking sheet. Place in the oven and roast for 15 to 18 minutes, until the veggies are caramelized and tender, tossing once halfway through.

Step 4

While the veggies roast, place the remaining cauliflower florets in a food processor. Pulse a few times until the cauliflower resembles grains of rice, then add the beans, garlic, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and 1/3 cup almondmilk. Puree just until smooth.

Step 5

Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons olive oil in a Dutch oven or medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the shallot and cook until it's beginning to turn translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the quinoa, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Stir to coat the quinoa in the oil and shallots, then add the remaining 2 cups almondmilk. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer until the quinoa has absorbed most of the liquid, about 12 to 15 minutes.

Step 6

Add the cauliflower bean puree to the quinoa and fold to combine, adding a few extra tablespoons almondmilk as needed so that you have a nice, creamy consistency. Stir in the chives. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as desired.

Step 7

Divide the quinoa into serving bowls. Top with a generous serving of roasted vegetables and sprinkle with additional chives. Enjoy immediately.