Tomato Basil Risotto

Tomato Basil Risotto Recipe from Italy with Parmesan Cheese and White Wine

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomato Basil Risotto is a classic Italian dish that combines the creamy texture of risotto with the fresh flavors of tomatoes and basil. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with friends and family.

History

Risotto is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Northern Italy, where rice was a staple crop. The combination of rice, broth, and cheese creates a creamy and comforting dish that has become a favorite around the world.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of chopped onion
1 clove of minced garlic
2 tbsp of butter
1 cup of uncooked U.S. arborio or medium-grain rice
0.5 cup of dry white wine
3 cups of chicken broth
2 cups of water
2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 tbsp of minced fresh basil
0.33 cup of grated parmesan cheese
0.25 tsp of ground white pepper
0.5 cup of heavy cream

How to prepare

In a large skillet, cook the onion and garlic in butter over medium-high heat until they become soft.
Add the rice and stir for 2 to 3 minutes.
Pour in the wine and stir until it is absorbed. Then, add 1 cup of broth and cook uncovered, stirring constantly, until the broth is absorbed.
Continue stirring and gradually adding one cup of broth and water at a time. Allow each cup to be absorbed before adding another. Cook until the rice is tender and the mixture has a creamy consistency, which should take around 20 to 25 minutes.
Stir in the tomatoes, basil, cheese, pepper, and cream. Keep stirring until the mixture becomes creamy, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Stir in some sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use arborio or medium-grain rice for the best results.

- Stir the risotto constantly to ensure a creamy consistency.

- Use fresh tomatoes and basil for the most vibrant flavors.

- Add the cheese and cream at the end to prevent them from becoming too thick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tomato Basil Risotto as a main dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect risotto is to stir constantly and add the broth gradually. This helps to release the starch from the rice and create a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute fresh basil with dried basil if needed.

- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the risotto ahead of time and reheat it on the stove with a little extra broth or water. Just be sure to stir it well to maintain the creamy consistency.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the risotto with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomato Basil Risotto pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. It also goes well with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove with a little extra broth or water until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 14g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 9g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 150mg per serving

Iron: 2mg per serving

Vitamin C: 10mg per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese and cream)

Summary

Tomato Basil Risotto is a rich and creamy dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tomato Basil Risotto is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and fresh flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was during a trip to Italy many years ago, where I had the pleasure of taking a cooking class in a quaint little village nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany. The class was taught by a charming local chef named Giovanni, who had a passion for traditional Italian cuisine and a deep-rooted love for his country's food.

During the class, Giovanni shared with us the secrets of making the perfect risotto - a creamy and flavorful dish that is a staple in Italian cuisine. As he demonstrated the process of cooking the risotto, I was mesmerized by the way he effortlessly combined simple ingredients to create a dish that was bursting with flavor.

One of the recipes he shared with us that day was his Tomato Basil Risotto. The dish was a beautiful combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy Arborio rice, and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Giovanni explained that the key to making a great risotto is to use the freshest ingredients and to have patience while stirring the rice to achieve the perfect creamy texture.

As I watched Giovanni cook, I knew that I had to recreate this dish in my own kitchen. I made sure to take detailed notes and ask him questions about the process so that I could replicate it at home. Giovanni was more than happy to share his knowledge with me, and before I knew it, I had a recipe for Tomato Basil Risotto that I couldn't wait to try.

When I returned home from my trip, I immediately set to work in my kitchen, gathering all the ingredients I needed to make the risotto. I carefully chopped the tomatoes, minced the garlic, and chiffonaded the basil, savoring the aromas that filled the air as I cooked.

I followed Giovanni's instructions to the letter, starting by sautéing the garlic in olive oil until it was fragrant, then adding the Arborio rice and toasting it until it was slightly translucent. I slowly added the simmering vegetable broth to the rice, stirring constantly and allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.

As the risotto cooked, I could see it transforming into a creamy and luscious dish, just like the one Giovanni had made in Italy. The tomatoes and basil added a burst of freshness and flavor to the dish, while the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese melted into the rice, creating a rich and decadent finish.

When the risotto was finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste it. I scooped a generous portion onto a plate, garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and took my first bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, reminding me of the warm summer days in Tuscany and the joy of learning to make this dish from Giovanni.

Since that day, Tomato Basil Risotto has become a beloved recipe in my family. I have shared it with friends and loved ones, passing on the tradition of making this delicious dish with them. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that cooking class in Italy, where I learned the art of making risotto from a master chef and discovered the magic of combining simple ingredients to create a dish that is truly unforgettable.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Tomato Basil Risotto with my family, I am grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am thankful for the opportunities I have had to learn from talented chefs like Giovanni. The recipe for Tomato Basil Risotto will always hold a special place in my heart, as it is a reminder of the beauty and joy that can be found in the simple act of preparing a delicious meal for those you love.