Creamy leek risotto

This risotto brings the soul of Italian cuisine to your table in no time. It is creamy, smooth, and full of comfort. The leek adds a sweet and delicate touch. The dish is ready in twenty minutes, with minimal prep, and still feels sophisticated and irresistible.

The flavors come from a simple combination of arborio rice that releases starch and turns creamy, leek that brings freshness and a subtle sweetness, vegetable broth that adds body and depth, butter that makes everything silky and rich, and parmesan cheese that contributes a salty and indulgent touch. Together, these ingredients meld into a velvety texture and balanced flavor, showing how five well-chosen items can create a risotto full of aroma and pleasure.

Ingredients

300 g of arborio rice (≈ 1 1/2 cups)
1 medium leek, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
1 liter of hot vegetable broth
50 g of unsalted butter (≈ 4 tablespoons)
50 g of grated parmesan cheese (≈ 1/2 cup)

For tips on choosing the right rice, see Information on arborio rice for risotto.

Instructions

For technical details on the technique, consult How to prepare risotto traditionally step by step.

Heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm over low heat.
Wash and thinly slice the leek.
In a wide pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sauté the leek until soft and translucent (2–3 minutes).
Add the arborio rice and stir for 1–2 minutes to coat it in the butter and warm it through.
Begin adding the hot broth one ladle at a time. Stir frequently until the liquid is nearly fully absorbed before adding more.
Repeat until the rice is al dente with a creamy texture (about 16–18 minutes).
Remove from heat. Add the remaining butter and the parmesan cheese. Stir vigorously until very creamy.
Adjust salt if needed and serve immediately.

Some qualities and benefits — consult the TACO Food Composition Table.

Leek is rich in fiber and vitamins, and adds a mild, sweet flavor.
Arborio rice releases starch and creates the creamy texture of risotto; it is a good source of energy.
Vegetable broth adds depth to the dish without making it heavy.
Butter makes the risotto velvety and helps carry the flavors.
Parmesan provides calcium and protein, as well as a rich and savory taste.

Yield and occasions

Yields about 3 to 4 servings.
Great for quick dinners, comforting meals, casual get-togethers, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort — pair with other practical everyday options to put together a complete menu.

Conclusion

If you enjoyed this risotto, follow us for more easy and quick recipes. Find practical options like 5 quick dinner recipes in 20 minutes and simple dishes like garlic and olive oil pasta made in one pot. You can also explore ideas for light and nutritious meals at light meal options or find inspiration for cooking with ingredients you already have at home at practical pantry tips.

For guidance on balanced meals, check out the Government dietary guide for balanced eating.

Also try dishes that pair well with this risotto. They make the meal more complete and balanced.