Best Easy Risotto ai Fiori di Zucca Recipe

Delicate squash blossoms folded into creamy risotto make a stunning vegetarian dish. This fresh mediterranean meal is a family dinner that captures the fleeting beauty of Italian summer.

Cook 30 min Difficulty NORMAL 350 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #family dinner #risotto
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Arborio rice 1.5 cups
  • Squash blossoms 12 pieces
  • Yellow onion 1 pieces
  • Vegetable broth 5 cups
  • Unsalted butter 2 tbsp
  • Parmigiano Reggiano 0.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Olive oil 2 tbsp
  • Salt 1 tsp
  • Black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 49 g 56%
Protein 8 g 9%
Fat 12 g 31%
Serving size 270g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Warm the vegetable broth in a saucepan over low heat, keeping it at a gentle simmer throughout cooking.

  2. 2

    Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a wide sauté pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped yellow onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat each grain without browning.

  4. 4

    Add 1 ladle of hot broth and stir gently; cook until almost absorbed, then continue adding broth one ladle at a time, stirring often and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding the next (this takes about 18 minutes).

  5. 5

    When the rice is creamy and almost al dente, gently fold in sliced squash blossoms and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until wilted.

  6. 6

    Remove from heat, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and Parmigiano Reggiano, stirring briskly to create a creamy finish. Season with salt and black pepper to taste; serve immediately.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What ingredient gives this risotto its distinctive flavor and appearance?
The squash blossoms are the signature ingredient in this recipe, offering a delicate, floral flavor and an eye-catching appearance that sets this risotto apart from more common versions. Alongside creamy Arborio rice and fresh Parmigiano Reggiano, the blossoms create a beautiful balance of taste and presentation.
Q. What's a crucial step for achieving perfectly creamy risotto?
Adding the broth gradually, one ladle at a time, while maintaining medium heat and frequent stirring, is essential. This ensures the rice cooks evenly, releases its starch, and develops a creamy texture without becoming mushy or sticking to the pan.
Q. How do I avoid overcooking the squash blossoms?
Add the sliced squash blossoms only in the final 2–3 minutes of cooking, folding them in gently. This keeps their texture tender and prevents them from disintegrating, maintaining both flavor and visual appeal.
Q. How many calories are in each serving, and what is the main macronutrient?
Each serving contains approximately 350 kcal. The main macronutrient is carbohydrates, making up 56% of the total calories (49g carbs), which is typical for a rice-based dish. Protein contributes about 9% (8g) and fat around 31% (12g) per serving.
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