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Caprese Risotto

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Caprese Risotto is a creamy Italian-inspired dish that combines tender Arborio rice with juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and Parmesan cheese. It brings the classic flavors of a Caprese salad into a rich and comforting risotto perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 5 cups warm vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Warm the vegetable broth in a saucepan and keep it over low heat.
  2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Cook the onion until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the Arborio rice and stir for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
  5. Pour in the white wine, if using, and cook until mostly absorbed.
  6. Add the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to absorb before adding more.
  7. Continue cooking for 20 to 25 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender with a slight bite.
  8. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
  9. Fold in the cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil.
  10. Season with salt and black pepper to taste and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  • Stir in baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added greens.
  • Use roasted tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
  • Mix in a spoonful of basil pesto for extra herb flavor.
  • Top with toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of vegetable broth, milk, or water to restore the creamy consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/caprese-risotto/