This post shows you how to make zucchini and mushroom risotto.
Zucchini & Mushroom Risotto is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Tender zucchini, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice come together in a rich, velvety risotto that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian meal or a gourmet side dish, this risotto is an easy yet elegant choice. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish right at home!
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What can you cook with zucchini?
Zucchini is a super versatile vegetable and there are so many delicious options to whip up in no time at all. Whether you are looking for a pasta dish or an alternative to using pasta, or you are looking for a tasty side dish using this vibrant veggie. Here are some of our favorites:
- Zucchini Fritters – an amazing zucchini side dish
- Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Shrimp – zoodles, what could be better?
- Stuffed Zucchini Boats – a super easy zucchini dinner recipe!
- Zucchini Lasagna – using zucchini instead of pasta – perfect as a gluten free recipe.
- Creamy Zucchini Pasta – indulgent but super quick to make!
- Zucchini Parmesan – tomato-ey flavorsome goodness.
- Grilled Zucchini and Chicken Wrap – a new ingredient for your wrap?
- Zucchini and Black Bean Tacos – fun twist on a Mexican classic!
- Zucchini Stir-Fry with Tofu – try a new dish!
Follow these recipes, and you’ll have a delicious zucchini dinners in no time! 😊
Aesther Cooking Pairs this recipe with
Ingredients
1 ½ cups Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable broth (kept warm)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
½ cup dry white wine (optional)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics – In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 2 minutes).
Cook the Vegetables – Add mushrooms and zucchini. Cook for 4-5 minutes until tender and slightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Toast the Rice – Add butter to the pan. Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges become slightly translucent.
Deglaze – Pour in the white wine and stir until absorbed.
Add Broth Gradually – Begin adding warm vegetable broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly. Let the liquid absorb before adding more. Repeat until the rice is creamy and tender (about 20 minutes).
Finish the Dish – Stir in the cooked zucchini and mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy!
Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy warm!
Tips and Tricks
✔ Use Warm Broth – Adding warm broth helps the rice absorb liquid faster, leading to a creamier texture.
✔ Stir Frequently – This releases starches, giving the risotto its signature creamy consistency.
✔ Don’t Rush It – Adding too much broth at once can result in uneven cooking. Patience is key!
✔ Cheese Matters – Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
✔ Customize It – Try adding spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
🌿 Make It Your Own – Try:
- Protein-Packed Risotto 🥩🍗
- Chicken & Zucchini Risotto – Add grilled or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Shrimp & Mushroom Risotto – Sauté shrimp separately and fold them in at the end for a seafood twist.
- Extra Veggie Risotto 🥕🌱
- Spinach & Pea Risotto – Toss in fresh spinach and peas for added color and nutrients.
- Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil – Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a Mediterranean spin.
- Creamy & Cheesy Upgrades 🧀✨
- Extra Cheesy Risotto – Mix in goat cheese or Gruyère for a richer taste.
- Spicy & Bold Flavors 🔥🌶️
- Spicy Cajun Risotto – Add Cajun seasoning and a dash of hot sauce for a Southern twist.
How to Serve
This Zucchini & Mushroom Risotto pairs well with:
A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette
A side of garlic bread or crusty baguette
Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
Zucchini & Mushroom Risotto
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth kept warm
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium zucchini diced
- 1 cup mushrooms cremini or button, sliced
- ½ cup dry white wine optional
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics – In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 2 minutes).
- Cook the Vegetables – Add mushrooms and zucchini. Cook for 4-5 minutes until tender and slightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Toast the Rice – Add butter to the pan. Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges become slightly translucent.
- Deglaze – Pour in the white wine and stir until absorbed.
- Add Broth Gradually – Begin adding warm vegetable broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly. Let the liquid absorb before adding more. Repeat until the rice is creamy and tender (about 20 minutes).
- Finish the Dish – Stir in the cooked zucchini and mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy warm!
FAQs
Q: Can I make risotto without wine?
A: Yes! Simply replace the wine with an equal amount of vegetable broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
Q: Can I store and reheat risotto?
A: Absolutely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth on the stovetop to restore creaminess.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
- Protein: 9g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fats: 12g
Enjoy this Zucchini & Mushroom Risotto as a satisfying zucchini dinner or a delightful side dish. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again! 🍽️✨
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Looking for more zucchini recipe ideas? visit Zucchini Recipes
This post shows you how to make zucchini and mushroom risotto.
