Tomato & Mascarpone Risotto is a delightful fusion of creamy textures and vibrant flavors, embodying the essence of Italian comfort food. Risotto, a beloved staple of Northern Italian cuisine, is renowned for its rich and creamy consistency. This particular version combines the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the luxurious creaminess of mascarpone cheese, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.
The origins of risotto date back to the Renaissance in Milan, where it was initially a dish for the wealthy. Over time, it evolved into a versatile and accessible meal enjoyed by all. Risotto’s fundamental technique involves slowly cooking rice in broth until it reaches a creamy consistency. The key to perfect risotto lies in the type of rice used, with Arborio and Carnaroli being the most popular due to their high starch content, which is crucial for achieving the desired creaminess.
In this Tomato & Mascarpone Risotto recipe, we elevate the classic risotto by incorporating ripe tomatoes, which impart a subtle sweetness and acidity, balancing the dish beautifully. The addition of mascarpone cheese at the end adds a silky texture and a rich, buttery flavor, making each bite a luxurious experience. Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese complete the dish, adding aromatic freshness and umami depth.
This risotto is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant dinner party. Its beautiful color and exquisite taste will impress your guests and leave them craving more. Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is straightforward and approachable, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks.
Tomato & Mascarpone Risotto
Description
This Tomato & Mascarpone Risotto is a celebration of Italian flavors, combining the comfort of creamy rice with the freshness of ripe tomatoes and the richness of mascarpone cheese. It’s a versatile dish that can be dressed up for a dinner party or enjoyed as a simple, satisfying family meal.
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
Dice the tomatoes and finely chop the onion and garlic.
Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep it warm over low heat.
Sauté the Aromatics (5 minutes):
In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the Rice (5 minutes):
Add the Arborio rice to the pan, stirring to coat the rice with the oil and aromatics.
Toast the rice for about 2 minutes until it becomes slightly translucent around the edges.
Deglaze with Wine (2 minutes):
Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until the wine has evaporated, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the Tomatoes (5 minutes):
Add the diced tomatoes to the pan, stirring to combine. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
Simmer with Broth (15-20 minutes):
Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each ladleful of broth to be absorbed before adding the next.
Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes. You may not need to use all the broth.
Finish with Mascarpone and Parmesan (5 minutes):
Stir in the mascarpone cheese until fully incorporated, creating a creamy texture.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 10g20%
- Vitamin A 1500 IU
- Vitamin C 20 mg
- Calcium 200 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For a vegan version, substitute the mascarpone with a plant-based cream cheese and use vegetable broth.
- If fresh tomatoes are not in season, use high-quality canned tomatoes.
- Ensure the broth is warm when adding it to the rice; cold broth can slow down the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the risotto as a main course with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
- For a heartier meal, top the risotto with grilled shrimp or roasted chicken.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the dish’s flavors.