Arborio Rice
Grains
Nutri-ScoreC

Arborio Rice

Oryza sativa

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Arborio Rice provides 130 kcal, 2.7g of protein, 28.2g of carbohydrates, and 0.4g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'C', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Arborio rice is a short-grain rice known for its high starch content, making it ideal for creamy dishes like risotto. Its unique texture allows it to absorb flavors while maintaining a firm bite.

Also known as:
Arborio (Italy)Risotto Rice (Italy)
Scientific NameOryza sativa
Region of OriginItaly

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories130 kcal
Water
12%
Fiber0.4g
Total31.2g
Protein
2.7g(9%)
Fats
0.3g(1%)
Carbohydrates
28.2g(90%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.07 mg (6%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.4 mg (3%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.2 mg (4%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 4 mcgVitamin B12: 0 mcgCholine: 1.5 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Magnesium12 mg (3%)
Phosphorus43 mg (4%)
Zinc0.4 mg (4%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.6 mg (30%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 3 mgIron: 0.2 mgPotassium: 26 mgSelenium: 0.6 mcg

Health Benefits

Rich in carbohydrates, Arborio rice provides a quick source of energy, making it a staple in many diets.
The high starch content contributes to its creamy texture, enhancing the palatability of dishes.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Rinse Arborio rice before cooking to remove excess starch. Cook it slowly, adding broth gradually to achieve the desired creamy texture.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose Arborio rice that is plump and opaque, avoiding any that appear discolored or damaged.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Energy-boosting, Digestive aid
Main Applications
Culinary use in risottos
Base for creamy dishes
Bioactive Compounds
Amylopectin

Contributes to the creamy texture of cooked rice.

How to Consume
Cooked, Risotto, Pudding
Did you know?

"Arborio rice is named after the town of Arborio in the Po Valley of Italy, where it was first cultivated."

Myths vs Realities

MythArborio rice is only for risotto.
RealityWhile it's best known for risotto, Arborio rice can be used in various dishes, including desserts.
MythAll rice is the same.
RealityDifferent rice varieties have unique textures and starch contents, affecting their culinary uses.
MythYou can't cook Arborio rice in a rice cooker.
RealityArborio rice can be cooked in a rice cooker, but it may require adjustments to water ratios.

Healthy Recipes

Lemon Herb Arborio Rice Salad

A refreshing salad featuring Arborio rice tossed with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and crisp vegetables, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil and add Arborio rice; reduce heat and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
  3. 3. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.

Mushroom Risotto with Spinach

A creamy and nutritious risotto made with Arborio rice, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, making it a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add mushrooms and cook until soft, then stir in Arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes.
  3. 3. Gradually add vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until rice is creamy and al dente; mix in spinach and Parmesan cheese before serving.

Arborio Rice and Black Bean Bowl

A hearty and filling bowl combining Arborio rice with black beans, avocado, and a spicy lime dressing, perfect for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup corn
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook Arborio rice in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, avocado, corn, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss gently and serve warm or chilled.

Arborio Rice Pudding with Berries

A healthy twist on classic rice pudding made with Arborio rice, almond milk, and topped with fresh berries for a delightful dessert.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine Arborio rice, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon; bring to a boil.
  2. 2. Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy.
  3. 3. Serve warm or chilled, topped with mixed berries.

Mediterranean Arborio Rice Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers filled with Arborio rice, feta cheese, olives, and herbs, baked to perfection for a delicious and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Cook Arborio rice in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  3. 3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with feta, olives, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper; stuff the mixture into bell pepper halves and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Arborio Rice and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful stir-fry featuring Arborio rice and a variety of fresh vegetables, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook Arborio rice in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and stir-fry mixed vegetables and ginger for 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Add cooked rice and soy sauce, stir well, and garnish with green onions before serving.

Coconut Arborio Rice with Mango

A tropical dessert made with Arborio rice cooked in coconut milk and topped with fresh mango, offering a sweet and creamy treat.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine Arborio rice, coconut milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt; bring to a boil.
  2. 2. Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy.
  3. 3. Serve warm or chilled, topped with diced mango.

Arborio Rice and Lentil Pilaf

A nutritious pilaf combining Arborio rice and lentils with spices and vegetables, making it a wholesome and filling dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1/2 cup green or brown lentils
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, cook lentils in vegetable broth until tender, about 20-25 minutes; set aside.
  2. 2. In another pot, sauté onion and carrots until soft, then stir in Arborio rice, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Add cooked lentils and remaining broth; simmer until rice is tender and fluffy.

Savory Arborio Rice Frittata

A protein-packed frittata made with Arborio rice, eggs, and seasonal vegetables, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. Cook Arborio rice in water according to package instructions; set aside.
  3. 3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and bell pepper until soft; add spinach and cooked rice.
  4. 4. In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk, season with salt and pepper, pour over the rice mixture, and bake for 20-25 minutes until set.

Arborio Rice Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls made with Arborio rice, filled with fresh vegetables and avocado, perfect for a fun and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1 1/4 cups water
  • 4 sheets nori
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • Soy sauce for dipping
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Rinse Arborio rice under cold water, then cook in water according to package instructions.
  2. 2. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat, spread a thin layer of rice, and arrange avocado, cucumber, and carrot in the center.
  3. 3. Roll tightly, slice into pieces, and garnish with sesame seeds; serve with soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Arborio rice used for?

Arborio rice is primarily used for making risotto due to its creamy texture.

Is Arborio rice gluten-free?

Yes, Arborio rice is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

How do you cook Arborio rice?

Cook Arborio rice slowly, adding broth gradually while stirring to achieve a creamy consistency.

Can Arborio rice be used in desserts?

Yes, Arborio rice can be used in desserts like rice pudding due to its creamy texture.

How does Arborio rice differ from other rice?

Arborio rice has a higher starch content than other rice varieties, which gives it a unique creamy texture.

Is Arborio rice healthy?

In moderation, Arborio rice can be part of a healthy diet, providing energy and essential nutrients.

How should Arborio rice be stored?

Store Arborio rice in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can you freeze Arborio rice?

Yes, cooked Arborio rice can be frozen, but it may lose some texture upon reheating.