Squash risotto

Squash risotto is a creamy, comforting Italian rice dish where Arborio rice is slowly cooked with broth, white wine, and puréed or roasted squash, often finished with Parmesan cheese and butter. It typically features seasonal winter squashes like butternut or pumpkin, along with aromatics like onion and garlic, and is a staple of Northern Italian cuisine.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in carbohydrates from the rice, with moderate fat from cheese and butter, and provides a good source of vitamins A and C from the squash, along with some protein from the dairy. A typical serving ranges from 400 to 600 calories, depending on portion size and richness of ingredients.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	320 kcal
Protein	8 g
Carbs	45 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	680 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Calcium	120 mg
Iron	2.1 mg
Vitamin A	450 mcg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg
Folate	80 mcg
Magnesium	45 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, risotto is a symbol of Italian culinary patience and technique, requiring constant stirring to release starch for creaminess, while the squash adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color that makes it a popular autumn or winter comfort food. Nutritionally, the squash boosts the dish's fiber and antioxidant content, offering a healthier twist on a classic carb-rich meal.