This easy 12-minute risotto is the perfect healthy weeknight dinner (2024)

Compare that with white Arborio rice with about 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber and 240 calories. If you’re a carb counter the “net carbs” are lower than arborio rice because of the increased fiber. (Fiber is classified as a non-digestible carbohydrate, so subtracting that from the total carb amount leaves you with the digestible, or “net” carbohydrates.)

If you’re watching your salt intake, keep in mind that a serving has 340 mg of sodium — about 15% of your daily recommended amount. That’s still quite low compared with other packaged rice products, but it is more than unseasoned rice. But as a fully seasoned product, no additional sodium is needed, compared to what you’d add when you’re preparing risotto from scratch.

Risotto is a dish you can make your own by adding animal proteins like grilled chicken, fish, or seafood or plant proteins like tofu and seitan. Grilled or steamed vegetables along with your favorite seasonings create a unique tasty side or main dish. Another shortcut for built-in flavor is the four different varieties to choose from: creamy parmesan style, wild mushroom, basil pesto and creamy cracked pepper.

Ready in 12 minutes, it’s as easy as boiling water in a saucepan, adding the rice and stirring occasionally for 5 minutes over low heat. Remove it from the heat, and let it stand, covered, for about 7 minutes. That’s it! Stir, and serve immediately.

It’s a nutritional “win-win” to introduce more plant proteins into your diet, and treat yourself to a quick fancy dish at the same time.

Madelyn Fernstrom

Madelyn Fernstrom, Ph.D. is NBC News’ health and nutrition editor. Follow her on Twitter @drfernstrom.

This easy 12-minute risotto is the perfect healthy weeknight dinner (2024)

FAQs

Is risotto a healthy meal? ›

Risotto contains carbohydrates, which are necessary to fuel the body. But, some recipes are high in saturated fat because of the cheese and butter that is used to prepare the dish. Risotto can also be high in sodium. Adding vegetables and a lean protein helps give risotto a more balanced nutritional profile.

Is risotto good for dinner? ›

This simple creamy risotto recipe stands on its own. Yes, you can serve it as a side dish, but it's a main event, worthy of a dinner party even. If this is your first time making the Italian rice dish, know it's a bit like a clingy baby, explains former BA food director Carla Lalli Music.

What is a healthy alternative to risotto? ›

Cauliflower Risotto is very similar in texture to traditional risotto. Using cauliflower rice is a healthier option and keeps it low carb, while also adding additional nutrients like vitamin C. Fresh cauliflower also adds a very subtle sweetness that I believe makes it taste even better than traditional risotto.

What is healthier, risotto or pasta? ›

Which is the best for weight loss: rice or pasta or orzo or risotto? Pasta and orzo have the highest protein content and highest fiber content of the options. This means that after eating pasta or orzo, you will feel fuller for longer leading to less snacking.

Which is healthier, risotto or rice? ›

Arborio rice, harvested in Italy, is filled with goodness and nutrients. It may be somewhat starchier than other long-grain white rice. However, it isn't that high in carbs and is healthier than regular rice.

What do Italians eat risotto with? ›

In Italy, when it is not used as a complete meal, risotto is considered a main dish, and is usually served with small portions of meat or light vegetable side dishes. For example, it is very common to pair risotto with a couple of lemon escalopes, or with bresaola and arugula.

What is the etiquette for eating risotto? ›

Italians tend to eat risotto with a fork, that is what the etiquette says. The spoon should be only for babies and toddlers while they are learning how to eat properly.

Do Italians eat risotto with fork or spoon? ›

Most Italians eat risotto with a fork, but there are areas where you are given a spoon by default to eat it: it happens in Campania, for example, but not only there. It partly depends on convenience and habits.

What meat goes best with risotto? ›

Bavette Steak (Flank Steak)

Bavette Steak is a juicy beef cut that broils perfectly medium rare in just a few minutes. All you need to do is stuff the steak with garlic cloves, season, broil, and slice! Serve it with risotto for a complete and decadent meal!

What is the secret to a good risotto? ›

Top 10 Tips for a Great Risotto
  • Always use warm stock. ...
  • Use a wide pan. ...
  • Use Arborio rice. ...
  • Toast the rice. ...
  • Deglaze with wine. ...
  • Watch your time. ...
  • Stir, but not too much. ...
  • Add the stock in small increments.
Feb 19, 2021

What not to do with risotto? ›

Do not stir the risotto too much because the grains lose starch and stick together. Do not scrape the bottom of the pan if some rice has stuck to it. Use only the soft grains. The concept of mantecare, (the verb form of mantecatura) is an Italian cooking essential, one that's crucial to risotto.

Is risotto clean eating? ›

The short answer is yes, risotto can be a healthy grain. Risotto is made from cooked Arborio rice, which is a type of Italian white rice. When prepared properly, risotto is a healthy, low-calorie meal that is high in fiber and protein.

Is risotto a carb or protein? ›

RISOTTO RICE
NameAmountUnit
Energy356kcal
Protein8.89g
Total lipid (fat)2.22g
Carbohydrate, by difference75.6g
10 more rows

Is risotto considered a meal? ›

Risotto is a grain–based meal, and combined with greens and protein, you'll get a complete and satiating meal.

How many calories are in a risotto dish? ›

A real comfort classic, risotto is much easier to make than you might think. All you need is the right rice and a bit of patience! Per serving: 1,342kJ / 317 kcal.

Is risotto good for digestive system? ›

Risotto is a North Italian food and it is good for constipation because the Arborio is used for making Risotto. This rice helps the digestive system to function well and restores bowel function too.

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