Plain Risotto
Creamy and comforting, this plain risotto features tender rice infused with onion, wine, and Parmesan, perfect for a versatile and satisfying meal suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Add Arborio rice and sauté until rice is coated with oil and butter.
- Pour in white wine or dry vermouth and stir until the liquid is absorbed.
- Gradually add hot chicken or vegetable broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring until each addition is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Add hot water if more liquid is needed during cooking.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier risotto, stir constantly and ensure each addition of broth is fully absorbed before adding the next. You can substitute Arborio rice with Carnaroli or Vialone Nano for different textures. If you don't have white wine, use additional broth or lemon juice for acidity. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can enhance flavor, and you can add peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve risotto warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Parmigiana Sandwiches or a light salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. This dish also makes a great base for adding seasonal vegetables or proteins.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. For best results, avoid microwaving as it can dry out the risotto.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Risotto contains roughly 1005 calories, with 81g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (397% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (281% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1195mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make risotto ahead of time?
While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Under-cook it slightly so it remains al dente, then reheat with additional broth before serving. This ensures it won’t become mushy and will retain its creamy texture.
What should I do if my risotto is too thick?
If your risotto thickens too much before it's fully cooked, simply add more hot broth or water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir continuously to ensure even cooking and creaminess.
Can I make this risotto vegan?
Yes, to make a vegan version, replace the butter with additional olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Ensure your vegetable broth is free of animal products. You can also add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).