Is tomato risotto vegetarian?

Arborio rice is the most accessible choice because of its high starch content, which creates the signature creamy texture. If you cannot find Arborio, Carnaroli or Vialone Nano are excellent substitutes. Long-grain rice, jasmine rice, and basmati rice are not recommended because they won't produce authentic tomato risotto.

Can I prepare tomato risotto ahead of time?

Tomato risotto is best served immediately after cooking. However, you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently with a splash of vegetable broth or water while stirring to restore its creamy consistency.

Is tomato risotto vegetarian?

Yes, this tomato risotto is naturally vegetarian when prepared with vegetable broth and Parmesan cheese made with vegetarian-friendly rennet. For a vegan version, simply replace the Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast.

Best Tomato Risotto Recipe

Name: Tomato risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 white onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups Arborio rice; 8 cups vegetable broth, kept warm; 24 ounces tomato puree (passata); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 15 fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for finishing; Optional: Charred cherry tomatoes; Optional: Burrata cheese

Description

This creamy Tomato Risotto is made with Arborio rice, tomato puree, vegetable broth, Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, garlic, and onion to create a rich and comforting Italian classic. Slowly cooked until perfectly creamy, this risotto is ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or special occasions. Serve it with charred cherry tomatoes, burrata, or extra Parmesan for an elegant finish.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 white onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups Arborio rice
8 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
24 ounces tomato puree (passata)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
15 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for finishing
Optional: Charred cherry tomatoes
Optional: Burrata cheese

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Instructions

Bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer and keep it warm while preparing the risotto.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion for about 3 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add the Arborio rice and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the edges of the grains become slightly translucent.
Pour in the tomato puree along with the oregano, salt, pepper, and one ladle of hot vegetable broth. Stir well.
Cook over medium-low heat, adding one ladle of warm broth at a time as each addition is absorbed, stirring frequently.
Continue cooking for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender with a slight bite.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and extra virgin olive oil until smooth and creamy.
If needed, add another splash of warm broth to loosen the risotto before serving.
Serve immediately garnished with charred cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, additional Parmesan, or burrata if desired.

Notes

Do not rinse the Arborio rice before cooking, as the starch creates the creamy texture.
Keep the broth hot throughout the cooking process.
Add the broth gradually instead of all at once.
Stir frequently to encourage the rice to release its starch.
Cook the rice until just al dente for authentic Italian texture.
Leftover risotto can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Use leftovers to make crispy risotto cakes or Italian rice balls.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 61g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 7mg