Romantic Beetroot Risotto

Name: Romantic Beetroot Risotto
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 medium beetroots, roasted and puréed; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons mascarpone cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Authentic Meals

When I first made this Romantic Beetroot Risotto, I was amazed by how the earthy sweetness of beets transforms a classic dish into something truly special. The vibrant color combined with the creamy texture creates a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. It's perfect for a cozy dinner or a celebration with someone dear. I love preparing this dish on date nights, as the aroma fills the kitchen, setting the mood for a delightful evening. It’s a simple yet sophisticated way to impress anyone sitting at your table.

Created by

Delaney Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:49:34.672Z

Preparing this Romantic Beetroot Risotto was more than just cooking; it was a sensory experience. As I roasted the beets, the kitchen filled with their sweet, earthy aroma, and the vibrant red color was a beautiful sight. I found that gradually adding the vegetable broth and stirring allowed the rice to absorb the flavors perfectly. The addition of a splash of white wine added an extra layer of richness that transported the dish to another level.

What really made this risotto special was the finishing touch: a dollop of creamy mascarpone and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Not only did it enhance the flavors, but it also created a luxurious texture. I encourage you to try this method—it truly elevates the dish and makes it feel like a celebration on a plate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and visually stunning dish that brightens any table
Creamy texture perfectly balanced with the earthy sweetness of beets
Simple ingredients come together for an elegant result

      

Crafting the Perfect Risotto

Creating a flawless risotto involves the right technique, particularly when it comes to adding broth. It's essential to add the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, allowing the rice to fully absorb each addition before proceeding. This not only ensures the rice cooks evenly but also creates that signature creamy texture. Stirring continuously promotes the release of starch, essential for achieving the right consistency. Aim for a risotto that is al dente – cooked through but with a slight bite in the center.

Incorporating the beetroot purée is a critical step. This addition not only introduces a vibrant color but also significantly enhances the unique flavor profile of the dish. After adding the wine, wait until it evaporates completely and the mixture reaches a beautiful glossy state before stirring in the beet purée. This technique allows the earthiness of the beets to permeate the dish, balancing the creaminess and bringing depth to the flavor.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of rice is crucial in risotto-making. Arborio rice is high in starch, which contributes to the dish’s creaminess. If you can’t find Arborio, Vialone Nano or Carnaroli are excellent substitutes, closely mimicking the required texture. Avoid using long-grain rice, as it lacks the necessary starch content for the desired creaminess and structure that elevates a risotto from ordinary to extraordinary.

When it comes to the beetroot, roasting not only intensifies its sweetness but also enhances its earthy flavors, making a significant impact on the final dish. If pressed for time, you can use pre-cooked or canned beetroot purees, but roasting fresh beets allows for more vibrant flavors. If you're looking for a fun twist, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to offset the richness with a hint of acidity.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
2 medium beetroots, roasted and puréed
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons mascarpone cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

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

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.

Cook the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil. Cook for about 2 minutes, until the edges of the rice become translucent.

Add Wine and Beet Purée

Pour in the white wine, stirring until it is fully absorbed. Then add the beetroot purée, mixing thoroughly.

Incorporate Broth

Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more, repeating until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Finish with Cheese

Once the risotto is cooked, remove it from heat and stir in the Parmesan and mascarpone cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Spoon the risotto into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try garnishing with toasted walnuts or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh; however, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to prevent the rice from becoming dry because the starches will continue to absorb moisture. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through and creamy again.

If you plan to prepare this risotto in advance, consider undercooking the rice slightly. When you reheat it, the final cooking process will yield a perfect al dente finish. Alternatively, for meal prepping, you can make a larger batch and portion it out, allowing for a quick, gourmet meal at a moment's notice.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation when serving your Romantic Beetroot Risotto, consider plating it in a shallow bowl, allowing the vibrant color to take center stage. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green, and pour a thin drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top for added richness. For an extra touch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an appealing crunch that contrasts the creamy texture.

For a complete romantic dinner, pair your risotto with a crisp salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette and a glass of your favorite white wine. This balanced combination complements the earthiness of the beets and cuts through the creaminess, creating a delightful dining experience that celebrates both flavor and romance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen beets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen beets. Just make sure to thaw and purée them before adding.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative or another hard cheese like Pecorino.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the Parmesan and mascarpone with vegan alternatives, and ensure the vegetable broth is free from animal products.

→ Can I store leftover risotto?

Yes, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to loosen it up.