Imagine a plate of velvety risotto that transports you straight to the Italian coastline, where the sea meets culinary perfection. This Seafood Risotto is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary journey that combines the delicate flavors of succulent shrimp, tender scallops, and plump mussels with creamy Arborio rice. Each spoonful promises a harmonious blend of ocean-fresh seafood and rich, buttery rice that will make your taste buds dance with delight.
Ingredients
- US Measurements:
- 1.5 cups Arborio rice
- 7 oz peeled shrimp
- 7 oz scallops (roe removed)
- 7 oz cooked peeled mussels
- 4.25 cups hot fish stock
- 0.5 cup dry white wine
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients Slice the onion and mince the garlic. Quickly rinse the seafood under cold water to ensure freshness.
- Sauté the Aromatics In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1.5 tbsp of butter. Sauté the onion for 3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute without browning.
- Cook the Seafood Add shrimp and scallops, sear for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Toast the Rice Add rice to the skillet, stirring for 1 minute to soften the grains. Deglaze with white wine and let it evaporate over high heat.
- Create the Risotto Reduce heat to medium. Add hot fish stock ladle by ladle, stirring in a zigzag motion. Wait until almost all liquid is absorbed before each addition (18-20 minutes).
- Combine Seafood Halfway through cooking, add the seafood and mussels. Continue cooking until the rice is perfectly al dente.
- Finish and Serve Remove from heat. Add remaining butter and Parmesan cheese, stirring vigorously to create a smooth, creamy texture. Adjust seasoning, cover for 1 minute, and serve immediately.
Recipe Details
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Highlights (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
Why This Seafood Risotto is a Healthy Choice
This Seafood Risotto isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with lean proteins from seafood, it provides essential omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health. The Arborio rice offers complex carbohydrates, while the minimal use of butter and olive oil ensures a balanced approach to indulgence.
Pro Tips
- Keep fish stock simmering in a separate pan for more even absorption
- For a twist, try replacing scallops with smoked salmon
Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a twist of black pepper. Pair with a crisp white wine for the ultimate dining experience.