Low Sodium Classic Italian Risotto

Dive into the creamy, indulgent world of Italian cuisine with this Low Sodium Classic Italian Risotto—a healthier twist on the beloved traditional dish. Perfectly al dente Arborio rice is gently simmered in low sodium chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter, heart-conscious base. Featuring layers of flavor from sautéed onions, garlic, dry white wine, and a pop of bright lemon zest, every bite is rich yet refreshing. Finished with unsalted butter, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley, this risotto is decadently creamy without compromising on health. Easy to prepare in under an hour, it's the ultimate comfort food for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining. Whether you're watching sodium intake or simply seeking a flavorful, wholesome dish, this low-sodium risotto satisfies without sacrificing authenticity.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Arborio rice
• 5 cups Low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 Medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 Garlic cloves, minced
• 0.5 cup Dry white wine
• 0.75 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Lemon zest

Directions

Step 1

Heat the low sodium chicken or vegetable broth in a saucepan over low heat. Keep it warm but not simmering while you prepare the risotto.

Step 2

In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring each grain is well coated with the butter and oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges of the rice become translucent.

Step 6

Pour in the dry white wine and stir constantly until the wine is fully absorbed.

Step 7

Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be almost fully absorbed before adding the next. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.

Step 8

When the rice is creamy and just cooked through, remove the pan from the heat.

Step 9

Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and lemon zest.

Step 10

Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 11

Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1992.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1928.7

Total Fat 117.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 57.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 235.9mg	0%
Sodium 3438.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 113.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.1g	0%
Total Sugars 6.2g
Protein 82.4g	0%

Vitamin D 71.4IU	0%
Calcium 2116.4mg	0%
Iron 2.5mg	0%
Potassium 918.4mg	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: 57.4%

Protein: 17.9%

Carbs: 24.7%