Risotto is a classic italian main or side dish that uses short-grain rice. This type of rice, which is quite round and looks very different from long-grain rice, releases lots of starch during cooking so the finished dish is very creamy and rich. This recipe for easy traditional risotto is classic. To make it the best it can be, follow the recipe closely. You can easily add cooked meat or vegetables to this risotto to make it a main dish. Try gently cooked asparagus, peas, mushrooms, or sausage. Enjoy this dish with a fresh and crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. Some toasted garlic bread on the side is a nice touch.