Heart-Healthy Creamy Parmesan Risotto

Indulge in the comforting richness of our Heart-Healthy Creamy Parmesan Risotto—a guilt-free twist on a classic Italian favorite. Made with nutty short-grain brown rice and simmered in a warm blend of low-sodium vegetable broth and water, this risotto delivers the perfect balance of creamy texture and wholesome goodness. Fresh baby spinach, reduced-fat Parmesan cheese, and a splash of tangy lemon juice elevate the dish with vibrant flavors while keeping it light and nutritious. Prepared with olive oil, low-fat milk, and a garlic-onion base, this dish is both heart-smart and deliciously satisfying. Ready in under an hour, it's an ideal weeknight dinner option that pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables. Perfect for those seeking a healthy risotto recipe without sacrificing flavor!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups short-grain brown rice
• 5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups baby spinach, fresh
• 0.5 cup reduced-fat Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine the vegetable broth and water. Set over low heat to keep warm.

Step 2

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, cooking for about 5 minutes until translucent.

Step 3

Add minced garlic to the onion and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the brown rice, cooking for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the grains.

Step 5

Ladle in one cup of the warm broth-water mixture to the rice, stirring frequently until mostly absorbed.

Step 6

Continue adding the broth-water mixture one cup at a time, allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more. Stir frequently.

Step 7

After about 30-35 minutes, taste the rice for tenderness. It should be creamy and slightly chewy.

Step 8

Stir in the baby spinach, allowing it to wilt for 2-3 minutes.

Step 9

Reduce heat to low, then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and low-fat milk, stirring until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy.

Step 10

Add the lemon juice, black pepper, and salt, adjusting seasoning to taste.

Step 11

Serve hot, garnishing with additional grated Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2566.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1211.2

Total Fat 57.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 29.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 138.2mg	0%
Sodium 4107.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 114.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.4g	0%
Total Sugars 22.4g
Protein 67.2g	0%

Vitamin D 100.8IU	0%
Calcium 1918.3mg	0%
Iron 4.0mg	0%
Potassium 2051.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.6%

Protein: 21.6%

Carbs: 36.8%