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Fresh Tomato Risotto

Fresh Tomato Risotto recipe image
This Fresh Tomato Risotto is a vibrant, comforting classic that showcases the bright, sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes against the creamy richness of Arborio rice. The dish relies on slow cooking and constant stirring to release the rice's natural starches, creating a luxurious texture without heavy cream. Aromatics like garlic and onion form a savory base, while fresh basil and parsley add a burst of herbal freshness at the end. Topped with grated Parmesan cheese, it offers a perfect balance of umami and brightness. Ideal for a romantic weeknight dinner or a light summer lunch, this vegetarian main is both elegant and deeply satisfying. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up every last bite of the creamy sauce.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Calories: 52.1
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian
Description
This Fresh Tomato Risotto is a vibrant, comforting classic that showcases the bright, sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes against the creamy richness of Arborio rice. The dish relies on slow cooking and constant stirring to release the rice's natural starches, creating a luxurious texture without heavy cream. Aromatics like garlic and onion form a savory base, while fresh basil and parsley add a burst of herbal freshness at the end. Topped with grated Parmesan cheese, it offers a perfect balance of umami and brightness. Ideal for a romantic weeknight dinner or a light summer lunch, this vegetarian main is both elegant and deeply satisfying. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up every last bite of the creamy sauce.
Ingredients
  • 1 md Onion; chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Butter
  • 6 c Vegetable broth
  • 2 c Fresh tomato sauce OR 2 lb ripe tomatoes
  • 2-3 clove Garlic, chopped
  • 2 c Arborio rice
  • 3/4 c Dry white wine
  • 1 tb Parsley, fresh; chopped
  • 1 tb Basil, fresh; chopped
  • 1/2 c Parmesan cheese; grated
  • to taste Salt
Directions
  1. 1
    Heat the vegetable broth in a separate saucepan and keep it simmering over low heat.
  2. 2
    In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
  3. 3
    Add the chopped onion and garlic, saut&# 195;©ing until soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. 4
    Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the grains are coated in oil and slightly translucent at the edges.
  5. 5
    Pour in the dry white wine and stir until it is fully absorbed by the rice.
  6. 6
    Begin adding the hot vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and waiting until each addition is mostly absorbed before adding more.
  7. 7
    Halfway through the cooking process, stir in the fresh tomato sauce or pureed ripe tomatoes.
  8. 8
    Continue adding broth and stirring for another 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente) and the mixture is creamy.
  9. 9
    Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped basil.
  10. 10
    Season with salt to taste and let the risotto rest for 1 minute before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 52.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4.8g8%
Saturated Fat 1.2g6%
Cholesterol 2.7mg1%
Sodium 9.0mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 2.3g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
Sugars 1.1g
Protein 0.3g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Keep the broth hot throughout the cooking process. Adding cold broth slows down the cooking and can affect the texture of the rice.

For the best texture, stir the risotto frequently but do not overwork it. The goal is to release starch, not mash the grains.

If using fresh tomatoes, blend them until smooth or crush them finely to ensure an even consistency in the risotto.

Adjust the amount of butter and olive oil in the initial sauté based on the richness you prefer, though the original ingredient list suggests modest amounts.

Risotto is best served immediately as it continues to thicken as it cools. Add a splash of warm broth or water when serving if it has become too thick.

Keywords: arborio, basil, cheese, comfort food, cream, garlic, italian, main course, parmesan, parsley, rice, risotto, savory, summer, tomato, vegetarian, wine
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/fresh-tomato-risotto/