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Perfect Vegetable Risotto

Creamy Perfect Vegetable Risotto to Cozy Up Your Dinner

A creamy dream of Perfect Vegetable Risotto packed with wholesome ingredients, designed for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Risotto
  • 6 cups Vegetable Broth substitute with homemade or store-bought broth
  • 2 cups Arborio Rice can be replaced with carnaroli rice
  • 1 cup Dry White Wine omit for a non-alcoholic version
  • 0.25 cup Olive Oil substitute with butter for a richer flavor
Fresh Vegetables
  • 1 cup Onion, finely chopped can use shallots as an alternative
  • 0.75 cup Red Bell Pepper, finely chopped yellow or orange peppers work as substitutes
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced substitute with garlic powder if needed
  • 1 tsp Fresh Thyme Leaves, chopped dried thyme may be used in a pinch
  • 1 medium Yellow Squash, chopped small zucchini can be substituted
  • 1 medium Zucchini, chopped small
  • 1.25 cups Cherry Tomatoes can replace with chopped regular tomatoes
Finishing Touches
  • 3 tbsp Salted Butter substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option
  • Fresh Herbs a handful, chopped basil, chives, green onion, for garnish and flavor
  • Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese consider using a dairy-free alternative if needed

Equipment

  • heavy-bottomed pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Vegetable Risotto
  1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ¼ cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 cup of finely chopped onion, ¾ cup of finely chopped red bell pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves, and sauté for about 3 minutes, until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
  2. Stir in 2 cups of Arborio rice and 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme into the pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice grains start to turn translucent at the edges. Next, pour in 1 cup of dry white wine, stirring until it's mostly absorbed.
  3. Gradually pour in 3 ½ cups of vegetable broth, stirring constantly while bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, and continue to add the remaining broth in increments over the next 15 minutes, stirring regularly until the rice is al dente and creamy.
  4. If wishing to make the risotto ahead of time, spread the cooked mixture onto a baking sheet to cool quickly. Once cooled, place it in the refrigerator where it can be stored for up to 4 days.
  5. When ready to serve, reheat the risotto on low, adding 1 medium chopped yellow squash and 1 medium chopped zucchini. Gradually stir in any remaining broth until the mixture reaches your desired creamy consistency.
  6. Once cooked, stir in salt to taste and fold in 1 ¼ cups of halved cherry tomatoes. Add 3 tablespoons of salted butter and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Finish with a handful of chopped fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 9gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Risotto is best served fresh, but leftover can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

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