Even if the sun-dried tomatoes are dry-packed, there's no need to soak them before adding them to the risotto; the simmering broth will reconstitute them as the rice cooks. The pesto, along with the tomatoes, makes this an especially flavorful dish.
How to Make It
Step 1
In a medium saucepan, bring the broth and water to a simmer. In a large pot, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2
Add the rice to the pot and stir until it begins to turn opaque, about 2 minutes. Add the wine and salt and cook, stirring frequently, until all the wine has been absorbed.
Step 3
Add the sun-dried tomatoes and about 1/2 cup of the simmering broth to the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the broth has been completely absorbed. The rice and broth should bubble gently; adjust the heat as needed. Continue cooking the rice, adding broth 1/2 cup at a time and allowing the rice to absorb the broth before adding the next 1/2 cup. Cook the rice in this way until tender, 25 to 30 minutes in all. The broth that hasn't been absorbed should be thickened by the starch from the rice. You may not need to use all of the liquid, or you may need more broth or some water.
Step 4
Stir in the pepper, pesto, and Parmesan. Serve the risotto with additional Parmesan.
Step 5
Wine Recommendation: Go for a vibrant sauvignon blanc from the Collio district of Friuli. The herbal components of the wine will mesh beautifully with the pesto in the risotto.
Quick From Scratch Italian
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