If you're looking for a tasty and filling meal, Parmesan risotto is a great choice. With just 270 calories per cup (169 g), it's a relatively healthy option that's perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion.

In addition to being low in calories, Parmesan risotto is also a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. It's made with simple ingredients like Arborio rice, chicken broth, and of course, Parmesan cheese.

In this article, we'll discuss how to make the perfect Parmesan risotto, its nutritional benefits, and different variations you can try to switch things up in the kitchen.

What is Parmesan Risotto?

Parmesan risotto is an Italian rice dish that's made by slowly simmering Arborio rice in broth until it's creamy and tender. It's then finished off with grated Parmesan cheese and sometimes other ingredients like butter, herbs, and garlic. The key to a great Parmesan risotto is to stir the rice often and add the broth gradually, allowing it to absorb into the rice before adding more. The result is a rich, satisfying dish that's perfect on its own or served alongside chicken, fish, or vegetables.

Benefits of Cooking Parmesan Risotto

Not only is Parmesan risotto delicious, but it also has some nutritional benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should try making it at home:

• Good source of protein: The Arborio rice used to make Parmesan risotto contains a small amount of protein that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Calcium-rich: Parmesan cheese is a great source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Easy to customize: Parmesan risotto can be made with a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile meal option that can be adapted to suit your personal taste preferences.

Calories in 1 Cup Parmesan Risotto

A one-cup serving (169 g) of Parmesan risotto contains approximately 270 calories, 7 grams of fat, 42 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, and 9 grams of protein. Of course, the calorie count can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used.

How to Cook the Perfect Parmesan Risotto

Cooking Parmesan risotto takes patience and practice, but the end result is well worth the effort. Here are some tips for making the perfect batch:

• Use Arborio rice: This short-grain rice is specifically designed for risotto and will give you the best result.
• Stir often: Be sure to stir the rice frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure that it cooks evenly.
• Use homemade broth: While store-bought broth works well, homemade broth will give your risotto a richer flavor and depth.
• Add cheese at the end: Grate and add the Parmesan cheese right at the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming grainy or overcooked.

Ingredients for Making Parmesan Risotto

To make Parmesan risotto, you'll need the following ingredients (serves 4):

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Easy and Delicious Parmesan Risotto Variations

While classic Parmesan risotto is delicious on its own, there are many variations you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Mushroom risotto: Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh thyme to the rice as it cooks for a hearty and earthy variation.
• Asparagus risotto: Cook the asparagus separately and add it to the risotto just before serving for a bright and seasonal twist.
• Tomato basil risotto: Toss chopped fresh tomatoes and basil with the rice just before serving for a burst of freshness and color.

Is Parmesan Risotto Healthy?

Overall, Parmesan risotto can be a healthy and satisfying meal choice when made with high-quality ingredients and eaten in moderation. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and avoid adding too much butter or oil when cooking. If you're looking to reduce the calorie count even further, you can try substituting some of the cheese with nutritional yeast or using a combination of broth and water to cook the rice. Additionally, adding flavorful vegetables like mushrooms, asparagus, or tomato can help enhance the nutritional value of the dish.

Serving Suggestions for Parmesan Risotto

Parmesan risotto can be served on its own as a main dish or as a side to complement other ingredients. Here are a few serving suggestions to try:

• Roasted chicken: Pair Parmesan risotto with a juicy roast chicken for a classic and comforting meal.
• Grilled fish: Serve Parmesan risotto alongside grilled fish for a light and fresh option.
• Roasted vegetables: Top Parmesan risotto with roasted seasonal vegetables like squash, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.

Making Parmesan Risotto Ahead of Time

If you're planning to make Parmesan risotto ahead of time, you can cook the rice and broth separately and then combine them just before serving. This will prevent the rice from getting too mushy or overcooked during storage. Store the cooked rice in the fridge for up to 2 days and the broth in the fridge or freezer for up to a week. To reheat, simply heat up the broth, add the rice, and stir in the Parmesan cheese and any other ingredients you're using.

Storing Leftover Parmesan Risotto

If you have leftover Parmesan risotto, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of broth or water to the rice and microwave or heat up on the stove until warm. It's important to note that leftover risotto can dry out quickly, so be sure to add some additional liquid and stir frequently while reheating. You can also repurpose leftover risotto by using it as a base for a frittata or turning it into risotto cakes by shaping it into patties and pan-frying until crispy.