In a wide pan over medium heat, warm olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add onion (and garlic, if using); cook 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Stir in Arborio; cook 2 minutes, coating grains until edges look slightly translucent.
Add wine (or a ladle of broth); stir until mostly absorbed.
Ladle in about 1 cup hot broth at a time, stirring frequently and adding more only when liquid is nearly absorbed. Continue 18–20 minutes until rice is al dente and creamy.
Off heat, stir in remaining 1 tbsp butter and Parmesan. Season with salt & pepper. Garnish with herbs and serve immediately.
