Risotto

Dinner

Item Rating: 66/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 300 calories, 8.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)

Calories		352.9
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		11.8 g	15%
	Saturated Fat	4.7 g	23%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		17.6 mg	5%
Sodium		705.9 mg	30%
Total Carbohydrates		47.1 g	17%
	Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	8%
	Sugars	2.4 g
protein		9.4 g	18%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		58.8 mg	4%
Iron		1.8 mg	10%
Potassium		176.5 mg	3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 106 cal (32.0%)

Protein: 37 cal (11.3%)

Carbs: 188 cal (56.7%)

About Risotto

Risotto is a traditional Italian dish originating from the northern regions of Italy, particularly Lombardy and Piedmont. It is made by slowly cooking starchy, short-grain rice varieties such as Arborio, Carnaroli, or Vialone Nano in broth, often enhanced with vegetables, proteins, and seasonings. Risotto is a comfort food characterized by its creamy, rich texture that's achieved through a slow cooking method that releases the starch from the rice. Nutritionally, a standard serving provides approximately 150 calories, 4 grams of protein, 20 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fat, and 1 gram of fiber. Additionally, it contains trace amounts of calcium, iron, and minimal vitamins. Its nutritional profile can vary depending on the ingredients used, such as the type of broth or added protein and vegetables, allowing it to be customized based on dietary needs.

Health Benefits

• Provides sustained energy due to a relatively high carbohydrate content (20g per serving), which fuels the body and brain.
• Contains iron (0.75mg) that supports oxygen transport in the blood and helps prevent fatigue.
• Source of calcium (25mg per serving), which contributes to maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Cooking with vegetables or protein-rich additions can enhance dietary fiber and micronutrient intake for improved overall nutrition.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (if made with added wheat products or broths containing gluten), dairy (if cheese or butter is used), shellfish (if included in recipes)

Suitable for: Vegetarian (if made without meat broth), gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free rice and broth)

Not suitable for: Vegan (if cheese or butter is included), low-carb diets (due to high carbohydrate content)

Selection and Storage

Store cooked risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a small amount of broth or water to restore its creamy texture.

Common Questions About Risotto Nutrition

Is risotto high in calories and protein?

Risotto contains approximately 150 calories and 4 grams of protein per serving (about 1 cup). While it is not considered a high-protein food, it provides a moderate amount of calories and is primarily a carbohydrate-rich dish.

Can I eat risotto on a keto diet?

Risotto is not suitable for a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content, with around 20 grams of carbs per serving. Keto diets typically require carbohydrate intake to be under 20-50 grams per day, making risotto incompatible.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating risotto?

Risotto can be a good source of energy due to its carbohydrate content and is relatively low in sugar (1 gram per serving). However, it is also high in sodium, with around 300 mg per serving, which may be a concern for individuals monitoring their salt intake.

What is the recommended serving size for risotto?

A typical recommended serving size for risotto is about 1 cup, which contains 150 calories. Larger portions may lead to higher calorie and sodium intake, so it is best to pair risotto with a side of vegetables or lean protein for a balanced meal.

How does risotto compare to regular rice in nutrition?

Risotto and regular rice differ primarily in preparation and added ingredients. Plain white rice typically has fewer calories and sodium compared to risotto, which often contains butter, cheese, or stock for flavor. This makes risotto richer in taste but higher in fats and sodium.

Data Sources & Scientific References

1. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025

   U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture

   Offers guidance on grain consumption, including white rice, which is commonly used in risotto preparations.

   View source →
2. Glycemic Index of White Rice: A Meta-Analysis

   The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

   Analyzes the glycemic index of white rice, a main ingredient in risotto, and its potential impact on blood sugar levels.

   View source →
3. Rice: Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

   Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

   Details the health implications of rice consumption, including white rice as a staple ingredient in risotto dishes.

   View source →