Name: Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 325 g baby plum or cherry tomatoes, left whole; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking); 1 red or white onion, finely diced; 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped; 300 g risotto rice; 500 ml tomato passata; 900 ml vegetable stock, plus extra if needed; Salt and black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·4 from 11 reviews

If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, look no further than this wonderfully comforting Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe. Packed with the deep, sweet flavor of roasted tomatoes and the creamy texture of perfectly cooked risotto rice, this Italian classic is elevated to a whole new level. The combination of slow-roasted baby plum tomatoes, aromatic garlic and onion, and luscious tomato passata melds beautifully with tender grains of rice, resulting in a harmonious dish that is as vibrant in color as it is in taste. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal for friends, this recipe promises to be a memorable culinary adventure you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows many small roasted cherry tomatoes spread out on a shiny metal baking tray. The tomatoes have bright red color with some parts wrinkled and slightly charred, showing a cooked texture. Olive oil and small black pepper bits shine under the tomatoes, creating a glossy and oily surface with warm brown spots from roasting. The scene captures the tomatoes closely, highlighting their shiny, soft skin and juicy look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting to know the ingredients for this Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe is a joy in itself because each one plays a crucial role in building the rich texture and bold flavor. From the juicy burst of baby plum tomatoes to the creamy risotto rice, every item is simple yet essential.

Baby plum or cherry tomatoes (325 g): Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes for a natural sweetness that intensifies when roasted.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): One tablespoon will help roast the tomatoes to perfection, while the other enriches the risotto’s base.
Salt and black pepper: To season throughout, enhancing and balancing the flavors beautifully.
Red or white onion (finely diced): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped): Offers an aromatic punch that infuses the entire dish.
Risotto rice (300 g): Arborio or Carnaroli rice is perfect for its creamy, starchy qualities essential for risotto.
Tomato passata (500 ml): A smooth, fresh tomato base that complements the roasted tomatoes wonderfully.
Vegetable stock (900 ml): Provides a flavorful liquid to cook the rice slowly and absorb all those tomato notes.

How to Make Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Roasted Tomatoes

Start by placing the whole baby plum or cherry tomatoes into a small baking dish. Drizzle with one tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper. These tomatoes will roast in the oven later, allowing their natural sugars to caramelize and deepen the flavor, which will add incredible sweetness and richness to the risotto.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced onion and chopped garlic, and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Season with salt and black pepper, which helps to enhance the aroma and build the base taste of the dish.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the risotto rice to the pan and stir constantly for one minute. This step toasts the rice grains slightly, which adds a lovely nuttiness and prepares them to absorb the liquids gradually, resulting in that signature creamy risotto texture.

Step 4: Add the Tomato-Passata and Stock Mixture

In a large jug, combine the tomato passata with the vegetable stock and mix well. Gradually add a ladleful of this mixture to the rice, stirring continuously and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding more. This slow addition is the secret to coaxing creamy starch from the rice without making it mushy.

Step 5: Roast the Tomatoes

About 10 minutes into cooking the risotto, place the prepared tomatoes into a preheated oven at 200°C (180°C Fan/400°F/Gas Mark 6). Roast them for 15 to 20 minutes until the skins blister and they are soft and intensely flavorful, ready to be folded into the risotto at the end for a juicy burst.

Step 6: Finish Cooking the Risotto

Continue cooking the risotto for a total of 25 to 30 minutes, adding extra stock or boiling water if necessary to achieve a creamy and tender consistency. The rice should be cooked through but still retain a slight bite—a wonderful creamy texture that’s not too soggy.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Once the risotto rice has reached the perfect consistency, stir in three quarters of the roasted tomatoes gently, saving the rest for garnishing. Serve immediately in large bowls or individual portions, topped with the reserved roasted tomatoes and some fresh basil leaves if you like a pop of green and extra aroma.

How to Serve Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of a dish with two main layers. The bottom layer is soft rice cooked in a thick orange sauce, which looks smooth and a bit shiny. On top, there are many roasted cherry tomatoes, small and round, with slightly wrinkled skins and a shiny, bright red color, some with black pepper sprinkled on them. The dish is in a white pan, and the background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh basil leaves or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese works wonders to elevate the Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe with fresh herbal notes and a little salty richness. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving also adds an elegant touch and extra silkiness.

Side Dishes

This risotto pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad featuring peppery arugula or a simple green mix dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is an ideal companion, perfect for mopping up the luscious tomato-infused juices.

Creative Ways to Present

To turn your Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe into a showstopper, consider serving it in hollowed-out roasted tomatoes or small ramekins for a charming individual presentation. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or fresh microgreens on top for added texture and visual appeal that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe stores nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it an even tastier option the next day.

Freezing

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by letting them cool completely and transferring to a freezer-safe container. Use within one month for the best taste and texture, although the creamy texture may be slightly different after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat your risotto gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen it up as it warms through. Stir frequently to reintroduce creaminess and avoid scorching. Microwave reheating works too, but just be sure to add liquid and cover to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes for roasting?

Absolutely! While baby plum or cherry tomatoes are ideal due to their sweetness and size, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even halved larger tomatoes if needed. Just adjust roasting time accordingly.

Is there a substitute for risotto rice if I can’t find Arborio?

You can use Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice if available, as they also have the high starch content needed for creaminess. Avoid long-grain rice, which won’t produce the same texture.

Can I make this Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply use vegetable stock as instructed and skip any cheese garnish or replace it with vegan alternatives. The roasted tomatoes and tomato passata provide plenty of flavor without needing dairy.

How can I make the risotto more flavorful?

Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking or a splash of white wine in step 4 for added depth. Just ensure you allow the alcohol to cook off before continuing with the stock.

Can this risotto be made ahead for a dinner party?

Yes, you can prepare the risotto slightly ahead, but for best texture, finish cooking just before serving by gently reheating and stirring in the roasted tomatoes at the last moment.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Tomato Risotto Recipe is not just a meal, it’s an experience of deep, vibrant flavors and creamy satisfaction that’s bound to become a treasured favorite. I encourage you to dive into making this dish, enjoy the process, and savor every bite with the people you love. It’s a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the best possible way.