29+ Easy Summer Risotto Recipes to Make This Weekend

Summer risotto recipes offer a perfect blend of creamy, comforting textures and vibrant, seasonal ingredients that make for the ideal dish during warm weather.

Whether you’re craving something fresh and light like a pea and mint risotto or looking to indulge in the rich, savory flavors of roasted tomatoes and garlic, there’s a summer risotto for every palate.

The versatility of risotto allows you to experiment with a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and even fruits, transforming this traditional dish into something uniquely suited for the season.

With each spoonful, you’ll savor the richness of the creamy rice complemented by the natural sweetness of summer produce, making these risottos perfect for both light lunches and elegant dinners.

29+ Easy Summer Risotto Recipes to Make This Weekend

In conclusion, summer risotto recipes bring together the best of seasonal ingredients with the timeless appeal of creamy, satisfying risotto.

Whether you’re looking to add a burst of freshness with peas and herbs or savor the richness of roasted vegetables, these recipes provide the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Experimenting with new ingredients or sticking to the classic risotto techniques, each recipe promises to be a delightful addition to your summer meals.

So, why not enjoy a bowl of creamy, flavor-packed risotto that celebrates the essence of summer?

Summer Lemon Risotto

Summer Lemon Risotto is a light and zesty dish that captures the essence of summer with fresh citrus and creamy rice.

The tangy lemon brightens the rich creaminess of the risotto, while fresh herbs like basil and parsley add a burst of freshness.

Each bite offers a delicate balance of bright acidity and smooth texture, making it a perfect side dish for grilled seafood or a satisfying vegetarian main.

The fragrant aroma of lemon and herbs will transport you to sunny days, and its versatility ensures it can complement any summer meal.

Tomato Basil Risotto

Tomato Basil Risotto brings together the best of summer’s bounty with juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil in a creamy rice base.

As the tomatoes burst and release their juices, they infuse the rice with a tangy, sweet flavor, while the basil provides a fresh, herbal finish.

This dish is both comforting and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for a light dinner or as a vibrant side to a summer BBQ.

The creamy texture of the risotto paired with the savory sweetness of the tomatoes makes every spoonful a satisfying experience.

Asparagus and Pea Risotto

Asparagus and Pea Risotto is a celebration of spring vegetables that transforms your plate into a fresh, vibrant meal.

Tender asparagus and sweet peas combine to create a medley of textures, while the creamy risotto soaks up the delicate flavors of the veggies.

The crispness of the asparagus contrasts beautifully with the creamy rice, making each bite feel like a taste of fresh summer mornings.

This dish can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal or served alongside roasted chicken or fish for a more substantial plate.

Summer Corn Risotto

Summer Corn Risotto is the perfect dish to enjoy the peak of sweet, in-season corn, turning it into a creamy, comforting meal.

The kernels of corn burst with sweetness, pairing beautifully with the creamy rice and a touch of parmesan for a rich, savory depth.

The natural sweetness of the corn enhances the delicate flavors of the risotto, while the creamy texture makes it a luxurious meal for any occasion.

This versatile dish can be served as a standalone vegetarian meal or alongside grilled meats for a full summer feast.

Zucchini and Feta Risotto

Zucchini and Feta Risotto is a light and savory dish that showcases summer vegetables in a creamy, flavorful form.

The soft, tender zucchini adds a mild, earthy flavor, while the briny feta cheese brings a burst of saltiness that enhances the overall richness.

This risotto is full of fresh, seasonal ingredients, creating a balance of textures and flavors that feels like summer in every bite.

Perfect as a stand-alone meal or paired with a fresh salad, this dish is the ideal option for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Shrimp and Pea Risotto

Shrimp and Pea Risotto is a seafood lover’s dream, combining plump shrimp with sweet peas and creamy rice in a savory, rich dish.

The shrimp are perfectly cooked and absorb the flavors of the broth and risotto, while the peas add a pop of sweetness and color to each bite.

The creamy, luxurious texture of the risotto contrasts wonderfully with the tender shrimp, making this a delightful and filling summer meal.

Enjoy it as a main course for dinner or serve it alongside a light salad for an elegant, satisfying meal.

Sweet Corn Risotto

Sweet Corn Risotto is a creamy, dreamy dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of fresh summer corn.

The corn kernels pop with juiciness, while the creamy risotto base soaks up the sweet, savory flavors, offering a comforting yet light experience.

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand on its own as a vegetarian delight, ideal for any summer meal.

Each bite delivers a rich, satisfying texture with a subtle sweetness, making it a perfect addition to your seasonal repertoire.

Spinach and Ricotta Risotto

Spinach and Ricotta Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish with a vibrant burst of green from fresh spinach and a rich, tangy finish from the ricotta.

The spinach wilts down into the creamy risotto, adding a slight earthiness, while the ricotta melts in, offering a velvety smooth texture.

This dish is hearty yet fresh, making it an excellent main or a side to complement a light summer meal, like grilled chicken or fish.

The combination of flavors is simple yet satisfying, capturing the essence of summer in every spoonful.

Lemon and Arugula Risotto

Lemon and Arugula Risotto is a tangy, peppery dish that brings the refreshing brightness of lemon and the bite of arugula to your plate.

The creamy risotto base complements the sharpness of the arugula, while the lemon zest adds a zesty kick, making each bite invigorating and full of flavor.

This dish is a perfect standalone meal or pairs wonderfully with grilled seafood, adding a refreshing touch to your summer spread.

The fresh aroma of lemon and arugula fills the air as you cook, creating a dish that’s as fragrant as it is delicious.

Herb and Parmesan Risotto

Herb and Parmesan Risotto is a classic, satisfying dish that combines fresh herbs and nutty parmesan cheese for a fragrant and creamy treat.

The aromatic blend of parsley, thyme, and basil infuses the risotto with a fresh, herby essence, while the parmesan adds a rich, umami depth.

This simple yet elegant dish is perfect as a side or as a main for a light summer dinner, allowing the fresh flavors to shine through.

Its creamy texture, combined with the savory richness of the cheese, makes it a comforting and indulgent option for any occasion.

Summer Vegetable Risotto

Summer Vegetable Risotto is a vibrant, colorful dish that showcases a mix of fresh, seasonal vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers.

The vegetables soften as they cook, blending seamlessly with the creamy risotto, while herbs like basil and oregano bring a fragrant, savory layer to each bite.

This dish is a great way to make use of the season’s freshest produce, offering a light, healthy meal that’s satisfying and full of flavor.

Serve it as a standalone meal or alongside grilled meats for a wholesome summer feast.

Mushroom and Pea Risotto

Mushroom and Pea Risotto is a rich, earthy dish that pairs the umami depth of mushrooms with the bright sweetness of peas.

The mushrooms cook down into the creamy risotto, infusing it with a deep, savory flavor, while the peas add a pop of color and sweetness to balance out the richness.

This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering both warmth and freshness in every bite, making it ideal for cool summer evenings.

It can stand alone as a vegetarian main or be served alongside roasted meats for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Garlic Parmesan Risotto

Garlic Parmesan Risotto is a rich and savory dish that infuses the creamy rice with the aromatic warmth of garlic and the nutty richness of parmesan.

The garlic gently caramelizes, creating a deep, fragrant base while the parmesan adds an indulgent, creamy texture.

This dish is perfect as a comforting main or paired with your favorite grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a timeless choice for any summer dinner table.

Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom Risotto is an earthy, satisfying dish where tender mushrooms take center stage, infusing the creamy rice with their rich, umami flavor.

The mushrooms are sautéed to perfection, releasing their juices and adding a savory depth to the risotto, while the creamy rice binds all the flavors together.

This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served as an accompaniment to a variety of proteins, offering a hearty and comforting meal.

Its aroma fills the kitchen, creating the perfect ambiance for any cozy summer evening.

Pea and Mint Risotto

Pea and Mint Risotto is a refreshing, vibrant dish where the natural sweetness of peas is elevated by the cool, fragrant touch of fresh mint.

The mint offers a burst of freshness, while the peas provide a soft, sweet bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy risotto.

This dish is perfect as a light vegetarian main or a delicate side for seafood, making it ideal for those warmer summer nights.

Its light and fragrant profile makes it a versatile addition to any summer spread.

Sun-Dried Tomato Risotto

Sun-Dried Tomato Risotto is a tangy, savory dish that captures the intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, paired perfectly with creamy, tender rice.

The sun-dried tomatoes infuse the risotto with their bold, umami flavor, while the creamy base adds a smooth, luxurious texture.

This dish is excellent as a stand-alone meal or as a side to grilled chicken or fish, bringing a burst of flavor and color to any summer plate.

Its rich, savory aroma fills the air, making it impossible to resist.

Broccoli and Cheddar Risotto

Broccoli and Cheddar Risotto is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines the nutty sharpness of cheddar with the freshness of tender broccoli.

The broccoli softens in the creamy risotto, adding a slight earthiness, while the cheddar melts in to create a rich, savory flavor.

This dish is perfect for a cozy summer dinner, pairing beautifully with roasted meats or served as a comforting, satisfying main on its own.

Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Saffron Risotto

Saffron Risotto is a luxurious, aromatic dish with a rich, golden hue and an unmistakable floral scent.

The delicate threads of saffron infuse the rice with a subtle, earthy flavor that is complemented by the creamy, buttery risotto base.

This dish is perfect as a decadent main for a summer celebration or as a side to elevate your seafood or roasted meats.

Its stunning color and sophisticated flavor make it a standout addition to any summer meal.

Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut Squash Risotto is a comforting and velvety dish, blending the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the creamy richness of risotto.

The squash’s soft texture pairs beautifully with the smooth, savory risotto, creating a warming balance of flavors.

This dish can be enjoyed as a vegetarian main or as a side to roasted meats, perfect for a cozy summer dinner.

The delicate sweetness and earthy aroma of the squash add depth, making each bite a delightful experience.

Cucumber and Dill Risotto

Cucumber and Dill Risotto is a refreshing and light dish that brings together the crisp coolness of cucumber and the bright, herbal zing of dill.

The cucumbers provide a fresh, juicy bite, while the dill adds a vibrant, tangy note that perfectly complements the creamy risotto.

This dish is ideal for hot summer days, offering a cool, crisp meal that pairs wonderfully with seafood or grilled chicken.

Its light and refreshing nature makes it perfect for a summer lunch or a side to your favorite BBQ.

Roasted Red Pepper Risotto

Roasted Red Pepper Risotto is a bold and flavorful dish, where the sweetness of roasted peppers infuses the creamy risotto with a smoky, earthy depth.

The rich roasted peppers give the risotto a beautiful color and a tangy, slightly sweet flavor, perfectly complemented by the creamy texture.

This dish is fantastic as a side to grilled meats or as a main when served with a simple salad, offering a satisfying and savory meal.

The smoky aroma of the roasted peppers will fill your kitchen, making this dish irresistible.

Bacon and Leek Risotto

Bacon and Leek Risotto is a savory and hearty dish that combines crispy bacon with the subtle sweetness of leeks for a satisfying, rich flavor.

The bacon’s smoky crunch pairs perfectly with the creamy rice, while the leeks add a mild onion-like sweetness that rounds out the dish.

This risotto works beautifully as a main course or as a side to roasted meats, providing a comforting and indulgent meal.

Its enticing aroma will have everyone gathering around the table to enjoy its irresistible flavors.

Caramelized Onion Risotto

Caramelized Onion Risotto is a rich, savory dish where the deep sweetness of slowly caramelized onions adds an incredible depth of flavor to the creamy rice.

The onions melt into the risotto, offering a balanced, slightly sweet, and umami-packed flavor that is perfectly complemented by the creamy texture.

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a comforting meal.

Its rich, savory aroma is sure to fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to take part in the indulgence.

Spinach and Artichoke Risotto

Spinach and Artichoke Risotto is a creamy, indulgent dish with the earthy richness of spinach and the tangy, savory flavor of artichokes.

The tender spinach wilts into the risotto, while the artichokes provide a slightly tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

This dish is perfect as a main course for a light lunch or as a side to grilled meats, offering a fresh and vibrant taste of summer.

Its combination of flavors is comforting yet sophisticated, making it a standout addition to any meal.

Pea Risotto

Pea Risotto is a light and vibrant dish that brings together the sweetness of peas with the creamy richness of risotto.

The peas burst with freshness, and their natural sweetness blends perfectly with the smooth, velvety texture of the rice.

This simple yet satisfying dish works well as a main or a side, pairing beautifully with light proteins like grilled chicken or fish.

Its fresh and bright flavor profile makes it a perfect choice for a sunny summer meal.

Pesto Risotto

Pesto Risotto is a fragrant and herby dish that captures the bold flavors of basil pesto, infusing the creamy risotto with its vibrant, garlicky goodness.

The pesto brings a burst of freshness, while the risotto soaks up its aromatic, herbaceous flavors, creating a comforting and flavorful meal.

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or roasted meats, offering a savory and aromatic addition to any summer meal.

The rich, nutty aroma of the pesto makes it an irresistible option for pesto lovers.

Roasted Beet Risotto

Roasted Beet Risotto combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with creamy risotto, creating a rich and colorful dish.

The earthy beets soften and infuse the risotto with a deep, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with a touch of balsamic vinegar.

This dish works as a standalone vegetarian main or as an accompaniment to grilled meats, offering a fresh, hearty meal.

The vibrant color and earthy aroma of the beets make it a showstopper at any summer dinner.

Broccoli Risotto

Broccoli Risotto is a wholesome and satisfying dish that brings together the mild flavor of tender broccoli with the creamy richness of risotto.

The broccoli adds a slight earthiness, perfectly balanced by the creamy texture of the risotto, making it a comforting meal.

This dish can be enjoyed on its own as a light, healthy main or paired with a protein, offering a filling yet fresh meal.

Its simplicity and flavor make it a great choice for easy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Cabbage Risotto

Cabbage Risotto is a hearty yet light dish that brings the sweetness of sautéed cabbage together with the creamy, savory risotto base.

The cabbage wilts perfectly into the risotto, infusing it with a mild sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the rice.

This dish is excellent as a vegetarian main or as a side to grilled meats, offering a fresh, hearty, and satisfying meal.

The aroma of sautéed cabbage and risotto will fill your kitchen with a comforting, savory fragrance.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, summer risotto recipes offer endless possibilities for creating meals that are both comforting and refreshing.

From the subtle sweetness of fresh corn to the zesty kick of lemon, each recipe offers something unique to suit every taste.

These versatile dishes are perfect for light lunches, dinner parties, or casual family meals, and can easily be customized to reflect the vibrant produce of the season.

So, gather your ingredients and try one of these delightful summer risottos—your taste buds will thank you!