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Creamy, comforting, and bursting with fresh garden flavor, summer squash risotto is the perfect dish to celebrate the vibrant produce of the warmer months.
Whether you’re working with zucchini, yellow squash, or a medley of both, these tender vegetables transform a classic risotto into a seasonal sensation.
From light and herbaceous variations to rich, cheesy creations, summer squash risotto is versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side dish.
In this collection of 24+ summer squash risotto recipes, you’ll discover delicious options that highlight the best of summer with every spoonful.
Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, elegant garden parties, or simply savoring the season one bite at a time.
24+ Must-Try Summer Squash Risotto Recipes for Seasonal Eating
Whether you’re craving something light and lemony or rich and comforting, these 24+ summer squash risotto recipes offer a dish for every mood and meal.
Summer squash is a star ingredient that adds color, texture, and subtle sweetness to risotto, making it a perfect canvas for endless culinary creativity.
Don’t be afraid to mix in your favorite herbs, cheeses, or proteins—each variation brings something unique to the table.
So grab your squash, stir up a pot, and let the flavors of summer shine in every bite.
Lemon Summer Squash Risotto
Bright and zesty, Lemon Summer Squash Risotto brings a burst of sunshine to your plate with every forkful.
Tender bites of golden squash melt into the creamy rice, while fresh lemon zest adds a fragrant lift that wakes up your senses.
The richness of Parmesan weaves through the dish, giving it a velvety finish with just the right touch of umami.
Perfect on its own or paired with grilled chicken or seafood, this risotto is a summer-inspired comfort food that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Herbed Zucchini Risotto
Fragrant and garden-fresh, Herbed Zucchini Risotto celebrates summer’s bounty with finely shredded zucchini and a medley of fresh herbs.
With every bite, you’ll experience the silkiness of Arborio rice layered with the earthy notes of thyme, basil, and parsley.
The aroma of garlic and sautéed onion fills the air as the risotto simmers to creamy perfection.
This dish works beautifully as a vegetarian main or a flavorful side to roast meats or fish.
Creamy Yellow Squash Risotto
Golden and smooth, Creamy Yellow Squash Risotto is a warm, velvety hug in a bowl.
The mellow sweetness of summer squash infuses the rice, balanced by the richness of cream and a touch of nutmeg.
Hints of white wine and a dusting of aged cheese add depth, making this risotto both comforting and complex.
Serve it as a luxurious entrée or alongside grilled vegetables for a beautiful plant-based plate.
Parmesan Zucchini Risotto
Simple yet sophisticated, Parmesan Zucchini Risotto showcases the natural tenderness of zucchini against the bold, salty bite of aged Parmesan.
Each spoonful offers a contrast of creamy rice and lightly crisped squash, brought together with a whisper of black pepper and butter.
The aroma of melting cheese and warm grains is undeniably comforting.
Whether plated with a poached egg or served solo, this risotto turns humble ingredients into a crave-worthy dish.
Garlic Basil Squash Risotto
Vibrant and aromatic, Garlic Basil Squash Risotto is a flavor-forward celebration of summer’s freshest ingredients.
Sautéed summer squash lends a tender bite, while basil leaves add a fragrant, peppery brightness.
Roasted garlic builds a mellow depth that lingers with each bite, enhancing the creamy texture of the risotto.
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine and grilled shrimp, or enjoy it as a light, herbaceous standalone meal.
Garden Vegetable Risotto
Colorful and rustic, Garden Vegetable Risotto brings together yellow squash, zucchini, and sweet corn in a creamy, flavor-packed blend.
Each ingredient is sautéed to highlight its natural sweetness before being folded gently into the risotto base.
The dish is finished with a touch of cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, offering both richness and a cooling herbal note.
Versatile and hearty, this risotto stands on its own or shines beside a simple protein like lemon-herb chicken.
Summer Squash Risotto
Silky and golden, Summer Squash Risotto captures the season’s essence in every bite.
Delicately sautéed squash melds into creamy Arborio rice, releasing a gentle sweetness with each stir.
Hints of onion, garlic, and a splash of dry white wine build a rich base that’s both comforting and bright.
Serve it with a crisp green salad or enjoy it solo for a light yet satisfying summer meal.
Zucchini Risotto
Fresh and fragrant, Zucchini Risotto is a green-hued celebration of simplicity and flavor.
Shredded zucchini melts seamlessly into the rice, infusing it with moisture and a subtle garden taste.
Finished with Parmesan and a touch of lemon, the dish is creamy, aromatic, and irresistibly smooth.
It pairs beautifully with grilled salmon or can be enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian delight.
Squash and Corn Risotto
Sweet and savory, Squash and Corn Risotto is a golden bowl of summer comfort.
The juicy pop of sweet corn contrasts beautifully with the soft, sautéed squash and rich, starchy rice.
Herbs like thyme and chives brighten every spoonful, while a dash of cream ties it all together.
This risotto makes a delightful side for barbecue dishes or a hearty vegetarian entrée.
Yellow Squash Risotto
Vibrant and smooth, Yellow Squash Risotto is all about mellow sweetness and sunny color.
The squash melts into the creamy base, lending the risotto a buttery texture and delicate flavor.
Finished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Pecorino, it delivers depth without overpowering the palate.
Perfect with grilled chicken or a glass of chilled white wine for a light summer dinner.
Basil Squash Risotto
Bright and herbal, Basil Squash Risotto combines creamy rice with aromatic basil and tender squash.
The fresh herbs lift the dish with a peppery zing, while the sautéed squash brings softness and warmth.
A drizzle of olive oil and a touch of lemon enhance the natural flavors without adding heaviness.
This risotto works equally well as a light lunch or a stunning side for seafood dishes.
Grilled Squash Risotto
Smoky and savory, Grilled Squash Risotto layers fire-kissed squash over a bed of velvety risotto.
Charred edges of zucchini and yellow squash add complexity to the dish’s naturally mild flavors.
The creamy base, enriched with Parmesan and a touch of garlic, balances each smoky bite.
Serve it with roasted meats or enjoy it as a bold, standalone meal that makes the most of summer grilling.
Squash Risotto
Mild, creamy, and deeply comforting, Squash Risotto highlights the gentle flavor of summer squash in a rich, velvety dish.
Slow-cooked Arborio rice absorbs the sweet juices of the squash, creating a naturally buttery texture.
A touch of Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper round out the flavor with warmth and depth.
This dish shines on its own or beside roasted poultry or grilled vegetables.
Zucchini Lemon Risotto
Zesty and aromatic, Zucchini Lemon Risotto brings together fresh zucchini and bright citrus in one refreshing bowl.
Each bite offers creamy rice infused with tangy lemon zest and tender green zucchini.
The light acidity balances the richness, making it ideal for warm weather meals.
Enjoy it with grilled shrimp, seared tofu, or a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc.
Summer Veggie Risotto
Colorful and hearty, Summer Veggie Risotto is packed with squash, tomatoes, zucchini, and fresh herbs.
The vegetables release their juices into the risotto, enriching every bite with sweetness and depth.
A finish of olive oil and shaved Parmesan adds a luxurious, rustic touch.
Serve it as a main dish or a vibrant side for anything off the grill.
Zucchini Pea Risotto
Light and sweet, Zucchini Pea Risotto offers a pop of green in every spoonful.
Crisp peas and delicate zucchini add texture and freshness to the rich, starchy rice.
Laced with mint and lemon, this risotto feels airy and bright without losing its comforting creaminess.
It’s a perfect spring-to-summer transition meal, ideal with roasted fish or crusty bread.
Cheesy Squash Risotto
Creamy and indulgent, Cheesy Squash Risotto blends sautéed squash with melty cheese for ultimate comfort.
The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar or nutty Gruyère.
As the cheese melts into the risotto, it creates a smooth, luscious finish with golden edges.
This dish works wonderfully as a weeknight dinner or a satisfying vegetarian main.
Lemon Basil Risotto
Fresh and fragrant, Lemon Basil Risotto infuses summer squash risotto with citrus and herbs.
Bright lemon zest lifts the creamy rice, while chopped basil adds a burst of peppery green flavor.
The squash provides a tender, sweet base that balances the sharpness of the lemon.
Pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a lively and refreshing plate.
Zucchini Parmesan Risotto
Rich and savory, Zucchini Parmesan Risotto combines the delicate flavor of zucchini with the bold depth of aged cheese.
As the zucchini softens into the creamy rice, it brings a mild sweetness that pairs perfectly with sharp Parmesan.
The aroma of garlic and buttery rice fills the air as it simmers to silky perfection.
Serve it as a comforting main or alongside grilled steak for a balanced summer meal.
Roasted Squash Risotto
Earthy and caramelized, Roasted Squash Risotto brings out the deeper, nuttier side of summer squash.
Roasting the squash intensifies its natural sweetness and adds a slightly crisp texture to each creamy spoonful.
Infused with rosemary and finished with a swirl of cream, this dish is rustic yet refined.
It’s a versatile choice that complements anything from roasted chicken to sautéed greens.
Garden Risotto
Fresh and colorful, Garden Risotto is a medley of summer squash, herbs, and seasonal vegetables in one vibrant dish.
The squash blends smoothly into the rice, while diced tomatoes and fresh basil add bursts of brightness.
With each bite, you taste the freshness of the garden and the comforting warmth of slow-cooked risotto.
Perfect as a main or a side, this recipe brings summer right to your table.
Lemon Zucchini Risotto
Light and citrusy, Lemon Zucchini Risotto lifts your senses with every refreshing bite.
Zucchini ribbons soften gently into the rice, while fresh lemon juice adds a tangy edge that cuts through the richness.
The result is creamy but never heavy—ideal for warm evenings or outdoor dining.
Pair it with grilled fish or roasted vegetables for a simple, elegant meal.
Buttered Squash Risotto
Smooth and mellow, Buttered Squash Risotto is all about comfort and richness.
Cooked low and slow, the squash melts into the rice, enriched with real butter and a touch of nutmeg.
The aroma is warm and inviting, and the flavor is soft yet deeply satisfying.
Serve it as a cozy entrée or a buttery complement to grilled proteins.
Sweet Corn Risotto
Sweet and golden, Sweet Corn Risotto blends summer squash and corn into a creamy, sun-kissed dish.
The sweetness of corn kernels bursts in contrast to the silky risotto base and tender squash.
Fresh thyme and a touch of smoked paprika add layers of flavor that feel both rustic and refined.
It’s a perfect side for grilled meats or a stand-alone dish for breezy summer nights.
Conclusion
From the backyard garden to the dinner table, these 24+ summer squash risotto recipes prove just how exciting and adaptable this seasonal dish can be.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for one, risotto made with summer squash delivers comfort with a fresh, seasonal twist.
These recipes celebrate the beauty of simple ingredients, cooked with care and transformed into something special.
So the next time summer squash is in abundance, let your next risotto dish be both a culinary creation and a celebration of the season.
