Roasted sweet potato & zucchini risotto

Roasted sweet potato & zucchini risotto combines earthy roasted sweet potatoes with fresh zucchini, creating a creamy and zesty dish. This risotto features aromatic garlic and a touch of white wine for added depth of flavor.

09 Jan 2026
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

4 sweet potatos
1 short spray cooking spray oil
6 cups chicken gravy
1/2 cup white wine
2 tbsp butter
1 leek
2 garlic cloves
2 cups white rice
4 zucchini
2 tbsp lemon zest

Roasted sweet potato & zucchini risotto is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the fresh, delicate flavor of zucchini. The rich, creamy texture of the risotto is perfectly complemented by the zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, making this dish a family favorite. Follow these guidelines to create a mouthwatering meal that everyone will enjoy.

Instructions:

1. Prepare and Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the sweet potato chunks on a baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray oil.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, turning halfway through for even roasting.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, finely chop the leek and garlic cloves.
- Slice the zucchini into half-moon shapes or small cubes.

3. Cook the Risotto:
- In a medium pot, heat the chicken broth and keep it warm over low heat.
- In a large skillet or risotto pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped leek and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the white rice, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until the rice is well-coated with butter and lightly toasted.
- Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly, until the wine is mostly absorbed by the rice.

4. Gradually Add Broth:
- Begin adding the warm chicken broth to the rice, one ladle at a time. Stir frequently and allow each portion of broth to be absorbed before adding the next ladle.
- Continue this process, adding broth and stirring until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.

5. Add Zucchini and Sweet Potatoes:
- About 10 minutes into cooking the risotto, stir in the zucchini, continuing to add broth and cook as directed above.
- Once the rice is cooked and creamy, gently fold in the roasted sweet potatoes.

6. Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the lemon zest and season the risotto with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.

Roasted sweet potato & zucchini risotto is a heartwarming, flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner. With tender roasted vegetables, creamy rice, and a hint of lemon zest, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Follow these steps and tips to enjoy a delicious homemade risotto that everyone will love.

Roasted sweet potato & zucchini risotto FAQ:

How long should I roast the sweet potatoes?

Roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C), turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking and caramelization.

What type of rice works best for risotto?

Use Arborio rice for risotto, as it has a high starch content that helps create the creamy texture characteristic of this dish.

Can I substitute chicken gravy with a vegetarian option?

Yes, you can substitute chicken gravy with vegetable broth to make the risotto vegetarian-friendly while maintaining the flavor profile.

How should I store leftover risotto?

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water to loosen the texture.

What can I use instead of white wine in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

Tips:

- Roast the sweet potatoes until tender and caramelized for maximum flavor.

- Gradually add the chicken gravy to the rice to achieve a creamy consistency without making it too soupy.

- Stir frequently to avoid the rice sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Taste and season the risotto towards the end of cooking to ensure the flavors are balanced.

- Use a good quality white wine to deglaze the pan for a richer flavor.

- Gradually adjusting the seasoning at each step can ensure a well-balanced taste.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 920kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 170g
Fiber 12g
Sugar 18g
Fat 16g

Roasted sweet potato & zucchini risotto