Creamy Cilantro Pesto Risotto Recipe

Cilantro pesto gives a bright, herb-forward twist to classic risotto. This vegetarian and gluten-free cilantro pesto risotto is simple to make on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot. It works as a hearty main with vegetables or as an elegant side for chicken, shrimp, or salmon.

Creamy risotto is one of those comfort foods that feels special and satisfying. This version blends the creamy, comforting texture of classic arborio rice risotto with the bright, citrusy notes of cilantro-lime pesto for a Mexican-inspired flavor profile. It’s a refreshing variation for anyone who loves both herbaceous pesto and rich, velvety risotto.

This cilantro pesto risotto is extremely versatile. Serve it as a main course by stirring in roasted or sautéed vegetables, or use it as an elegant side dish alongside grilled shrimp, pan-seared salmon, or marinated chicken. The recipe can be made vegetarian or fully vegan by swapping butter for a plant-based alternative and using vegetable broth.

There are two reliable methods to prepare this risotto: the traditional stovetop technique that involves gradually adding warm broth and stirring until creamy, and a quicker Instant Pot method that uses high pressure to cook the rice faster while still producing a silky finish. Both methods produce excellent results; choose the one that suits your time and equipment.

How to make Pesto Risotto on the Stovetop

• Heat 8 cups of broth in a medium saucepan until it reaches a gentle simmer. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version, or chicken broth for extra richness.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter (or a vegan butter alternative).
• Add 1 cup finely chopped onion and sauté 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute.
• Add 1½ cups arborio rice to the skillet and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring so the grains are coated and lightly translucent around the edges.
• Begin adding the hot broth to the rice a half cup at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until most of the liquid is absorbed before adding the next half cup. Continue this process until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy, about 20–25 minutes total.
• Remove from heat. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper, then gently fold in about ½ cup cilantro-lime pesto until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

How to make Pesto Risotto in an Instant Pot

• Set the Instant Pot to the Sauté mode on “Normal.” Add 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) butter or a vegan substitute.
• When the pot indicates it is hot, add 1 cup diced onion and sauté 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook another minute.
• Add 2 cups arborio rice and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Cancel Sauté mode. Pour in 4 cups of broth and stir to combine, making sure no rice is stuck to the bottom.
• Secure the lid and set the steam release to sealing. Select Manual/Pressure Cook on high for 6 minutes.
• When the cook time ends, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure and open the lid.
• Stir in ½ cup cilantro-lime pesto, and season with ½ teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Stir until creamy and well combined.

Is risotto pasta or rice?

Risotto is a rice dish, not pasta. It is made with short-grain rice varieties—most commonly arborio rice—which release starch during cooking to create the dish’s characteristic creamy texture. Arborio rice is widely available in grocery stores alongside other rice varieties.

What to serve with Pesto Risotto: five popular ideas

1. Chipotle honey glazed salmon — Serve the salmon on top of the risotto for a bold, flavorful main course, or plate them side by side for a balanced dinner.
2. Grilled vegetable skewers — Make the risotto vegan and pair it with colorful, charred vegetables for a complete, plant-based meal.
3. Mexican-style meatloaf — Use the risotto as a creamy side to complement a spiced, savory meatloaf.
4. Cheesy taco meatballs — Spoon warm risotto onto plates and top with flavorful meatballs for a family-friendly twist.
5. Carne asada — Thinly sliced grilled steak served on top of the risotto creates a satisfying, restaurant-worthy dish.

Cilantro Pesto Risotto