Romantic Beetroot Risotto

Name: Romantic Beetroot Risotto
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 medium beetroots, roasted and diced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Planning

I absolutely love the way this Romantic Beetroot Risotto brightens up my dinner table. The vibrant pink color and earthy flavors come together to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. We often enjoy this dish on special occasions. It's surprisingly simple to make, yet it feels luxurious and indulgent. The creamy Arborio rice combined with the sweetness of beetroot transforms a regular weeknight dinner into a romantic feast that warms both the heart and the palate.

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:09:34.584Z

When I first tried making beetroot risotto, I was amazed by how the earthy sweetness of the beetroot elevated the dish. I used fresh, roasted beetroot to infuse the rice with a beautiful pink hue. The first time I served it to friends, they were taken aback by the stunning color and unique flavor, making it an ideal choice for romantic dinners.

One tip I discovered is to add a splash of white wine before the broth; it enhances the flavor while the acidity balances the sweetness of the beets. Each spoonful is a comforting experience—rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Stunning color that adds excitement to your dinner table
Creamy texture balanced with earthy flavors
Easy to make yet impressive for special occasions

      

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice is essential for achieving the luxurious creaminess of risotto. This short-grain rice has a high starch content, which is released during cooking, creating that signature risotto texture. If you're unable to find Arborio, Carnaroli is an excellent alternative that offers a similar result, while Vialone Nano can also be used for a creamy dish. Avoid long-grain rice which won't produce the same creaminess or flavor.

Toasting the rice for a couple of minutes before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and helps the grains absorb the broth better. You'll know it's ready when the edges become slightly translucent, and a gentle stirring helps maintain this texture.

Perfecting the Risotto Technique

The key to a perfect risotto lies in the broth-adding technique. Always add the broth gradually and wait for the rice to absorb it fully before adding the next ladle. This process not only helps in developing that desired creaminess, but it also allows the rice to cook evenly, reducing the risk of overcooking. Aim for a texture that is slightly al dente; it should have a slight bite when you taste it.

When mixing in the roasted beetroot, ensure they are warmed through but not cooked further to maintain their vibrant color and health benefits. Stir gently to avoid mashing the beets; you want to see their lovely color swirl through the risotto without losing their shape.

Serving and Storing Tips

For serving, keep the risotto warm, as it tends to thicken as it cools. If you find your risotto has set too much, simply stir in a splash of warm broth or water to bring it back to a creamy consistency. Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also balances the earthy sweetness of the beets with a refreshing note.

If you're making this dish ahead of time, prepare the risotto up to the point of adding the beets. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a bit of broth to rehydrate the rice and regain the original creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful beetroot risotto:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 medium beetroots, roasted and diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your romantic beetroot risotto:

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm on low heat.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.

Add the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast slightly in the pan for about 2 minutes.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and let it cook down until mostly evaporated.

Incorporate the Broth

Begin adding warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, allowing the rice to absorb it fully before adding more.

Mix in the Beetroots

After about 15 minutes, stir in the roasted diced beetroot and continue adding broth until the rice is cooked al dente.

Finish with Cheese

Once the risotto is creamy and the rice is cooked, stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious romantic beetroot risotto!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the flavor profile.

Exploring Beetroot Variations

While this risotto shines with roasted beetroots, consider experimenting with variations such as using pickled beets for a tangy twist or adding sautéed greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition. You could even mix in crumbled goat cheese for a creamy, tangy layer that complements the sweetness of the beets beautifully.

Additionally, if you want to incorporate different flavors, try adding citrus zest from an orange or lemon during the cooking process to brighten up the dish. This counterbalances the richness of the cheese and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Wine Selection Tips

Choosing the right dry white wine can elevate your risotto significantly. Look for a crisp, acidic wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Pinot Grigio, which will complement the earthy tones of the beetroot without overpowering it. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the intended flavor balance.

If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the wine with an equal amount of vegetable broth mixed with a splash of vinegar for acidity, or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to replicate that bright flavor.

Cooking Equipment Essentials

A heavy-bottomed pan or a Dutch oven is ideal for making risotto, as it distributes heat evenly and prevents hotspots that can scorch the rice. Make sure you have a wooden spoon for stirring; it gently incorporates the ingredients without breaking the grains.

Additionally, a ladle is a must-have tool for adding the broth gradually, ensuring that you control the absorption process effectively. Don't forget an instant-read thermometer if you want to check the internal temperature—aim for the risotto to be around 170°F to ensure it's ready to serve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make beetroot risotto ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the beetroots and stock ahead of time to save on cooking time during your event.

→ What can I serve with this risotto?

This dish pairs beautifully with a green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can I use frozen beetroots?

Yes, frozen beetroots can be used; just ensure they’re thawed and diced before adding them to the risotto.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftover risotto can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently, adding a splash of broth to loosen it.