What type of rice is best for this dish?

Arborio rice is preferred due to its high starch content, which creates the creamy texture characteristic of risotto.

Can I substitute the mushrooms with other varieties?

Yes, wild mushrooms like shiitake or porcini enhance flavor complexity, but cremini or button mushrooms work well for a milder taste.

Gradually adding warm vegetable broth while stirring allows the rice to slowly release starch, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture.

Substitute butter with vegan margarine, replace Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives, and use dairy-free cream to keep the richness.

A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the savory and earthy flavors perfectly.

Risotto is best served fresh; reheating may alter the creamy texture but gently warming with a splash of broth helps restore creaminess.

A luscious, comforting Italian rice dish featuring tender Arborio rice, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce.

This risotto quickly became a favorite in my home for its rich flavors and simple steps that make impressive results.

Vegetables: 250 g (9 oz) cremini or button mushrooms sliced, 150 g (5 oz) fresh spinach washed and roughly chopped, 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced
Rice & Liquids: 300 g (1½ cups) Arborio rice, 1 L (4 cups) vegetable broth kept warm, 120 ml (½ cup) dry white wine
Dairy: 60 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter divided, 60 g (½ cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 60 ml (¼ cup) heavy cream
Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt (or to taste), ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, Optional pinch of nutmeg

Sauté Mushrooms:: In a large, heavy saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until golden and their moisture has evaporated. Remove mushrooms and set aside.
Cook Onion and Garlic:: In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Toast Rice:: Add Arborio rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the edges look translucent.
Add Wine:: Pour in the white wine and stir until fully absorbed.
Add Broth Gradually:: Add a ladleful of warm vegetable broth and stir gently. When the broth is mostly absorbed, add another ladleful. Continue adding broth, stirring frequently, allowing each addition to be mostly absorbed before adding the next, until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18–20 minutes.
Combine Mushrooms and Spinach:: Stir in the sautéed mushrooms and spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until spinach is wilted.
Finish Risotto:: Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve:: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Cooking this recipe always brings my family together around the table for a cozy meal and heartfelt conversation.

Try adding wild mushrooms for a deeper earthy flavor or substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Pairs wonderfully with a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc and a light green salad with lemon vinaigrette.

This risotto is a perfect balance of comfort and elegance ready to be enjoyed any day of the week.

→ What type of rice is best for this dish?: Arborio rice is preferred due to its high starch content, which creates the creamy texture characteristic of risotto.
→ Can I substitute the mushrooms with other varieties?: Yes, wild mushrooms like shiitake or porcini enhance flavor complexity, but cremini or button mushrooms work well for a milder taste.
→ How do I achieve the perfect creamy consistency?: Gradually adding warm vegetable broth while stirring allows the rice to slowly release starch, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture.
→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?: Substitute butter with vegan margarine, replace Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives, and use dairy-free cream to keep the richness.
→ What wine pairs well with this dish?: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the savory and earthy flavors perfectly.
→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?: Risotto is best served fresh; reheating may alter the creamy texture but gently warming with a splash of broth helps restore creaminess.