Authentic Slow-Infused Tomato & Herb Risotto

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

This Italian risotto achieves true authenticity through the slow absorption of broth and perfect al dente rice, with garden-fresh tomatoes and herbs defining its genuine flavor. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 40 minutes pairs arborio rice, chicken stock, diced tomatoes for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.3 (8 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Serves 2 Italian cuisine 520 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Finely chop 1/4 cup onion and heat 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil in a heavy pot over medium heat until shimmering; add onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened but not browned.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 cup arborio rice to the pot, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until rice is coated and slightly translucent around the edges.
  3. Step 3: Pour in 1/4 cup white wine and cook, stirring, until fully absorbed and the rice smells nutty, about 2 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add 1/2 cup diced tomatoes and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, stirring to combine. Begin adding 4 cups chicken stock, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is absorbed before adding the next, for approximately 20 minutes total.
  5. Step 5: Test rice for tenderness after 15 minutes; it should be al dente with a slight bite. If needed, add a splash of stock to achieve perfect texture.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat, stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Let rest for 3 minutes, then serve immediately while hot.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Authentic Slow-Infused Tomato & Herb Risotto take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (15 min prep + 25 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Authentic Slow-Infused Tomato & Herb Risotto?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep arborio rice from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Authentic Slow-Infused Tomato & Herb Risotto?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Authentic Slow-Infused Tomato & Herb Risotto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Authentic Slow-Infused Tomato & Herb Risotto?

Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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