Best Easy Risotto alle Fragole Recipe

Unexpected strawberry risotto from the Veneto offers a sweet-savory vegetarian surprise. This fresh mediterranean creation is a unique family dinner that showcases Italian culinary creativity.

Cook 35 min Difficulty NORMAL 355 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Arborio rice 1.5 cups
  • Strawberries 10 oz
  • Vegetable broth 4 cups
  • Shallots 2 pieces
  • Unsalted butter 2 tbsp
  • Parmigiano-Reggiano 1 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Olive oil 2 tbsp
  • Salt 1 tsp
  • Black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • Fresh basil 6 leaves
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 60 g 68%
Protein 7 g 8%
Fat 9 g 24%
Serving size 260g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Prepare vegetable broth and keep it warm on low heat throughout the cooking process.

  2. 2

    Dice shallots finely; hull and slice strawberries. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat until butter melts.

  3. 3

    Add shallots and sauté gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until translucent but not browned.

  4. 4

    Add Arborio rice; toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until edges are slightly opaque. Pour in half the strawberries and cook for 1 minute, stirring.

  5. 5

    Begin adding warm broth 1 ladle at a time, stirring gently and allowing liquid to absorb between additions. Maintain a steady medium heat for even cooking—continue adding broth and stirring until rice is creamy and al dente, about 18–20 minutes.

  6. 6

    About 5 minutes before the rice is ready, add the remaining strawberries. Once rice is cooked, remove from heat; stir in grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, pepper, and 4 torn basil leaves for aroma.

  7. 7

    Let risotto rest in the saucepan for 1 minute to unify flavors. Plate and garnish with reserved basil leaves and extra Parmigiano if desired.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The defining ingredient is strawberries, which lend a delicate sweetness and vibrant color to the risotto. Arborio rice forms the creamy base, while Parmigiano-Reggiano ties together the sweet-savory balance for an authentically Italian dish.
Q. How do I ensure risotto stays creamy without overcooking?
Keep the heat at medium while adding broth gradually and stirring steadily. If the rice is cooked past al dente, the texture will lose its signature creaminess and become mushy. The final addition of strawberries should be timed about 5 minutes before the rice is ready to preserve freshness and texture.
Q. What's the calorie and protein content per serving?
Each serving contains about 355 kcal and 7 grams of protein. The risotto is a balanced vegetarian dish, with carbohydrates making up most of the caloric content.
Q. Which ingredient most affects the flavor and aroma?
Strawberries offer a surprising sweetness, while shallots provide subtle depth. Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh basil round off the dish with classic Italian aroma and complexity.
Q. What makes this dish Mediterranean and vegetarian?
This risotto uses olive oil, fresh berries, vegetable broth, and Parmigiano-Reggiano—all hallmarks of Mediterranean cuisine. All ingredients are plant-based except dairy, making it fully vegetarian.
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