Basil Risotto Recipe Vegan: Easy, Creamy, and Delicious

There’s something incredibly comforting and luxurious about a well-made risotto. The creamy texture, the tender grains of rice, and the subtle flavors that meld together make it a favorite dish for many.

But what if you want to enjoy this classic Italian delight without any animal products? This vegan basil risotto recipe is here to satisfy that craving with a fresh twist.

Utilizing vibrant basil and plant-based ingredients, this risotto delivers all the richness and depth you expect, without compromising your vegan lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to try something new, this recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with the herbal freshness of basil. It’s a fantastic way to impress guests or treat yourself to a cozy night in.

So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking this delightful vegan basil risotto!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan basil risotto stands out because it marries the creamy, indulgent nature of traditional risotto with the light, refreshing taste of fresh basil. The recipe relies on plant-based milk and nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy, rich flavor without dairy.

It’s perfect for anyone avoiding animal products but still craving comfort food.

It’s also incredibly versatile and easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body.

Most importantly, it proves that vegan cooking can be just as satisfying and elegant as any classic recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Optional: pine nuts or toasted walnuts for garnish

Equipment

• Large saucepan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or food processor (for basil pesto)
• Ladle (for adding broth gradually)
• Chopping board and knife

Instructions

1. Prepare the basil pesto: In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
2. Warm the vegetable broth: Place the vegetable broth in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat. This helps the rice cook evenly.
3. Sauté aromatics: In a large saucepan or deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Arborio rice: Stir the rice into the onion and garlic mixture, coating each grain with oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly but not brown.
5. Begin adding broth: Ladle about ½ cup of warm vegetable broth into the rice. Stir continuously until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in small increments and stirring constantly, until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente (about 18-20 minutes).
6. Incorporate plant milk and nutritional yeast: When the rice is nearly done, stir in the almond milk and nutritional yeast. This adds creaminess and a cheesy flavor without dairy.
7. Mix in basil pesto: Stir the prepared basil pesto into the risotto. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute. Garnish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts if desired, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“Constant stirring and gradual broth addition are key to achieving that perfect creamy risotto texture.”

• For extra protein: Add sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite vegan sausage to the risotto.
• Use fresh herbs: Mix in parsley or thyme for additional layers of flavor.
• Make it nutty: Toast the pine nuts or walnuts before garnishing for an extra crunch.
• Swap the basil: Try this recipe with spinach or arugula pesto for a different green twist.
• Make it gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your vegetable broth to ensure no gluten-containing additives.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This basil risotto pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides. Consider a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creamy texture.

Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes also complement the herbal notes in the dish.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside some warm crusty bread — check out our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe for a perfect homemade option. You might also enjoy pairing it with a refreshing drink like our Green Goodness Juice Recipe to keep the meal vibrant and healthy.

Conclusion

This vegan basil risotto recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish without any dairy or animal products. It’s accessible, easy to prepare, and packed with fresh ingredients that nourish both the body and soul.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the combination of basil’s bright herbal notes with the luxurious texture of Arborio rice is sure to please.

Don’t be intimidated by the stirring process – it’s part of the fun and the secret to perfect risotto! Once you try this recipe, you might also want to explore other comforting vegan dishes on our site.

For instance, our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe and Lazy Cookie Cake Recipe are perfect sweet treats to round out your plant-based menu.

Enjoy cooking, and buon appetito!

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