Romantic Beetroot Risotto

Name: Romantic Beetroot Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 medium beetroots, peeled and diced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or chives)

Highlighted under: Fresh Inspiration

When I think of the perfect romantic dinner, beetroot risotto always comes to mind. There's something incredibly special about its vibrant color and creamy texture that feels indulgent yet sophisticated. I love how each bite bursts with flavor, especially when paired with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a splash of lemon. This dish has become my go-to whenever I want to impress on a date night or celebrate a special occasion. I can't wait for you to try it and see just how enchanting a bowl of risotto can be!

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:37:34.578Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the idea of combining beetroot with traditional risotto ingredients. The result was a stunning dish that not only looks beautiful but also tastes divine. Cooking the beetroot with the rice allows its earthy sweetness to infuse throughout the dish, creating a harmonious balance.

The secret to a creamy risotto lies in the gradual addition of broth, allowing the rice to release its starch. This technique makes the risotto creamy without needing excessive cheese or cream. Trust me, your loved ones will be wowed by the flavor and presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant color that makes your plate pop
Deliciously earthy flavor from the beetroot
Creamy texture that's both comforting and luxurious

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of Arborio rice is crucial for achieving the characteristic creamy texture that risotto is known for. This short-grain rice contains a high amount of amylopectin, a starch that helps create that wonderful creaminess as it cooks. I recommend using high-quality Arborio rice to ensure the best results. If you can't find Arborio, Carnaroli rice is a fantastic alternative, as it also yields a rich and creamy risotto.

Beetroot plays a significant role not just in flavor but also in color. When selecting beetroots, look for firm, small to medium-sized ones with smooth skin. Larger beetroots may be woody and less sweet. Additionally, try to choose organic beets if possible, as they are generally grown without pesticides, enhancing the overall flavor of your risotto.

Perfecting Your Technique

Consistent stirring is key when making risotto. It not only helps release the starches from the rice, promoting creaminess, but it also prevents the rice from sticking and burning on the bottom of the pan. Aim for a steady rhythm of stirring that maintains heat without overwhelming the rice. If you feel the risotto is thickening too much, don’t hesitate to add a little more broth to help keep it creamy during cooking.

Pay attention to the doneness of your rice as you add broth. A general indicator is when the rice begins to puff slightly and is al dente, meaning it should still have a bit of bite. This is usually about 18 to 20 minutes into the cooking process. Remember, the risotto will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat, so it's okay if it's not fully done at that point.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

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

Make sure to use fresh beetroot for the best flavor and color!

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat and keep it warm throughout the cooking process.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened but not browned.

Cook the Beetroots

Add the diced beetroots to the skillet, stirring well. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Incorporate the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, cooking for 2 minutes until the rice is coated and slightly translucent.

Add the Wine

Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until it has mostly evaporated.

Add the Broth Gradually

Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is almost absorbed before adding more broth. This process will take about 20 minutes.

Finish the Risotto

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs and an extra sprinkle of cheese before serving warm.

Enjoy your romantic meal with a glass of wine!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the beetroots before adding them to the risotto.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the romantic vibe of your beetroot risotto, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. The acidity in the wine complements the earthiness of the beetroot beautifully. You can also accentuate the dish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of mascarpone for an extra luxurious touch.

If you're looking to add a protein component to your meal, grilled shrimp or seared scallops make excellent companions to the risotto. Their subtle flavors let the beetroot shine while adding a gourmet twist. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, consider roasted asparagus or sautéed greens like kale, which add both color and nutritional value.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the beetroot base in advance. Cook the beetroots and aromatics, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to finish, simply reheat the mixture, add the rice, and continue with the broth as instructed. This will save you time on a busy date night or special occasion.

If you have leftovers, store any risotto in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to refresh its consistency. Be mindful not to overheat, as this can make the risotto less creamy and desirable. To revive it nicely, a quick stir and a bit more cheese upon serving can also enhance its flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this risotto vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, add a splash of broth and stir over low heat until warmed through.

→ What can I serve with this risotto?

It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or grilled vegetables.

→ Can I freeze the risotto?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but if freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.