Beet Risotto with Goat Cheese

Name: Beet Risotto with Goat Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 medium beets, cooked and chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Soft Cooking

I absolutely love making Beet Risotto with Goat Cheese. The vibrant color of the beets not only makes the dish visually stunning but also adds an earthy sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy, tangy goat cheese. Each time I prepare this dish, I find that the subtle flavors develop beautifully during the cooking process. It’s a dish that requires patience and attention, but the reward is a deliciously rich risotto that impresses everyone at the table. Trust me, it’s worth every minute spent stirring and tasting!

Created by

Miranda Keats

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:41:41.417Z

When I first tried Beet Risotto, I was completely captivated by its flavor and color. The trick is to gradually add the broth, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid, making it creamy without the need for heavy cream. Using fresh beets gives the risotto a subtly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese, creating a perfect balance.

One detail I’ve learned is to finish the risotto with a splash of lemon juice. It elevates the flavors and adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Every bite becomes an experience, making it a favorite amongst my family and friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The stunning color makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.
The combination of earthy beets and tangy goat cheese is irresistibly delicious.
It's a comforting dish that warms the soul and satisfies the palate.

The Role of Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is a key ingredient in risotto, prized for its high starch content which contributes to the creamy texture. When heated and stirred properly, the rice releases this starch, creating that signature risotto creaminess. Be sure to choose authentic Arborio rice rather than substitutes; other varieties may not yield the same results. Toasting the rice slightly enhances its nutty flavor, so give it a good two minutes in the pan before adding liquid to deepen the dish's overall taste.

If you find yourself running low on Arborio rice, consider using Carnaroli or Vialone Nano as alternatives. These varieties also provide the ideal creaminess and texture. However, it's crucial to note that adjusting the cooking times may be necessary, as different rice types absorb liquids differently. Regardless of the variety, stir regularly to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking; maintaining a gentle simmer will allow for even absorption of the broth.

Enhancing Flavor with Beets

The earthy sweetness of the beets lifts the flavor profile of the risotto beautifully. For best results, choose fresh beets and roast them until fork-tender; this intensifies their natural sweetness. Alternatively, pre-cooked beets can save time but may lack the depth of flavor from roasting. If you’re keen to experiment, try using golden beets for a slightly milder taste or even a burst of color variation, offering a unique visual appeal without overpowering the overall flavor.

When incorporating the beets into the risotto, timing is essential. Gently fold them in after the rice is cooked to preserve their texture and vibrant color. This method prevents them from breaking down too much, maintaining their distinct flavor and visual charm. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can puree a portion of the beets and stir them in with the goat cheese for an even richer beet flavor throughout the dish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Should you have leftover risotto, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth or water, stirring frequently until heated through. This helps restore its creamy texture without drying it out. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can yield uneven heating and make the risotto gummy.

For an elegant presentation, serve the risotto in wide, shallow bowls that allow the vibrant color to show off beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color, and a dusting of additional goat cheese on top can enhance the tangy profile. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a simple grilled protein, like chicken breast or salmon, providing a balanced meal that’s visually appealing and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
2 medium beets, cooked and chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat and keep it warm while you make the risotto.

Cook the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, then stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Rice

Add Arborio rice to the pan and stir for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the dry white wine, stirring until it’s mostly absorbed by the rice.

Gradually Add Broth

Begin adding the warmed vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Incorporate Beets and Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the chopped beets and crumbled goat cheese, stirring to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Garnish and Serve

Serve the risotto warm, garnished with fresh parsley and additional goat cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider roasting the beets beforehand. This will enhance their natural sweetness and make your risotto even more delicious.

Ingredients Substitutions

If you are looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cheese alternative instead of goat cheese. Nutritional yeast can also lend a cheesy flavor without the lactose. Additionally, for a more robust flavor, experiment with adding a dash of balsamic vinegar when folding in the beets for an interesting contrast that adds a sweet tang to the dish.

Should you need to omit the wine, use extra broth instead. It will slightly change the flavor profile, but you won't miss out on the creaminess. Just remember that a good risotto depends on layering flavors, so using high-quality vegetable broth will significantly influence the taste of your final dish.

Cooking Techniques

Patience is key in making risotto. As you gradually add broth, allow the rice to fully absorb each addition before pouring in the next. This method ensures you achieve that creamy texture vital for a successful risotto. Keep the heat moderate; too high can cook the rice unevenly, while too low may lead to a gloppy mess. A great tip is to use a wooden spoon for stirring, as it allows for gentle mixing without breaking the grains.

It is also important to keep the broth warm throughout the process. Cold broth will shock the rice and hinder its ability to absorb effectively. A ladle-size amount typically takes about two minutes to absorb, so timing your additions based on the rice's doneness is crucial. The goal is creamy yet al dente rice, which means you should stop cooking when the rice retains a slight bite, leading to a well-textured dish that doesn’t clump.

Serving Variations

Consider adding toasted nuts, such as pine nuts or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor depth. Their nutty profile complements the sweetness of the beets and the tanginess of the goat cheese beautifully. A sprinkle of microgreens can also enhance your dish's presentation while adding subtle herbal notes.

For a unique twist, incorporate other seasonal vegetables, such as sautéed kale or spinach, at the end of cooking. This not only boosts nutritional value but also adds a lovely contrast in color and texture. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a well-rounded dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with feta or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese and replace butter with olive oil.

→ What side dishes pair well with beet risotto?

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables are great sides that complement the richness of the risotto.

→ Can I make this risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it ahead without the cheese and reheat gently with a splash of broth.