1Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring water to a boil. Add asparagus, cover, and steam until tender, about 5 minutes. Cut asparagus into 1-inch pieces; set aside.
2Heat chicken broth in a saucepan over medium heat; keep at a simmer while preparing risotto.
3Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir onion and celery until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir in garlic and arborio rice; cook and stir until rice is lightly toasted, about 5 more minutes.
4Pour white wine into rice mixture, stirring constantly, until liquid is evaporated, about 5 minutes. Stir chicken broth into rice, one ladleful at a time, allowing liquid to absorb completely before adding more while stirring constantly, about 20 minutes. Add asparagus and stir.
5Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice and lemon zest. Serve immediately.
Footnotes
Cook's Note:
You can also roast asparagus by placing stalks, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, pinch of salt and pepper on a baking sheet and baking them in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for 15 minutes.
Tip
Aluminum foil helps keep food moist, ensures it cooks evenly, keeps leftovers fresh, and makes clean-up easy.