Heart-Healthy Tomato Risotto

Creamy, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this Heart-Healthy Tomato Risotto is a delicious twist on a classic Italian favorite. Made with nutrient-rich farro or barley, this recipe swaps traditional arborio rice for a whole-grain option that’s loaded with fiber and heart-smart benefits. Sautéed onions and garlic lay the aromatic foundation, while ripe cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach bring a vibrant burst of flavor and antioxidants. Finished with a touch of zesty lemon juice, fragrant basil, and a sprinkle of optional nutritional yeast for a cheesy, plant-based upgrade, this dish is as nourishing as it is satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this low-sodium, no-dairy risotto is a must-try for those seeking a healthy yet indulgent meal option.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 cup Farro (or barley for a whole grain option)
• 4 cups Low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup Crushed tomatoes (no salt added)
• 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups Baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 0.25 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Nutritional yeast (optional for a cheesy flavor)
• 0.25 teaspoons Salt (optional, use sparingly)
• 0.25 teaspoons Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, and add the olive oil.

Step 2

Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until translucent.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the farro and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 5

Gradually add the low-sodium vegetable broth, one ladle (about 1/2 cup) at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process for about 30 minutes, or until the farro is tender and creamy.

Step 6

Once the farro is cooked, stir in the crushed tomatoes and cherry tomatoes. Allow to cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7

Add the chopped baby spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 8

Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the chopped basil, nutritional yeast (if using), salt (optional), black pepper, and lemon juice.

Step 9

Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your heart-healthy tomato risotto!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1859.7 grams (1859.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	877

Total Fat 32.40g	42%
Saturated Fat 4.80g	24%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1219mg	53%
Total Carbohydrate 126.60g	46%
Dietary Fiber 22.80g	81%
Total Sugars 23.70g
Protein 25.00g	50%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 288mg	22%
Iron 11mg	59%
Potassium 2741mg	58%

*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: 32.5%

Protein: 11.1%

Carbs: 56.4%