Name: Shrimp Risotto Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 8 oz clam juice; 4 cups water; 3 tbsp butter; 1 large shallot; 1 cup risotto rice; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cups small pink shrimp; 2 tbsp parsley; 1 tbsp lemon zest; salt

Embrace the divine combination of succulent shrimp and creamy risotto with this elegant, yet simple 'shrimp risotto delight' recipe. This delicacy, layered with robust flavors of seafood and subtle aromas, will transport your senses to the heart of Italy's coastal cuisine.

Photos of Shrimp Risotto Recipe

Risotto rice and clam juice aren't typical pantry staples in most households. Risotto rice, specifically Arborio or Carnaroli, is an Italian short-grain rice known for its high starch content, which gives risotto its characteristic creaminess. Clam juice, a flavorful liquid extracted from clams, is available in bottles in the soup or seafood aisle of most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Shrimp Risotto Delight

Clam juice: This savory juice extracted from clams adds a depth of flavor to the risotto and enhances the taste of the shrimp.

Butter: Adds creaminess to the risotto and helps in sautéing the shallots and rice.

Shallot: A type of onion with a delicate and slightly sweet flavor.

Risotto rice: The key to a great risotto, it releases starch as it cooks, which creates the dish's signature creaminess.

Dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth to the risotto. Choose a good quality wine that you'd also enjoy drinking.

Small pink shrimp: The star ingredient, they add a delightful seafood flavor that complements the creamy risotto.

Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a pop of color and a subtle earthy flavor.

Lemon zest: This provides a fresh, tangy note that balances the rich, creamy flavors of the dish.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

One reader, Abraham Shull says:

This shrimp risotto delight is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the shrimp adds a delightful touch. The creamy texture and hint of lemon zest take it to the next level. It's a must-try for any seafood lover!

Abraham Shull

Key Techniques for Mastering Shrimp Risotto Delight

How to sauté shallots: In a thick-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, and sauté the minced shallots for 2 to 3 minutes until just translucent.

How to stir-fry the rice: Add the rice to the pot and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until all the grains are well coated in butter and beginning to toast.

How to add the white wine: Increase the heat to high and add the white wine. With a wooden spoon, stir the rice vigorously. Once the wine boils, turn the heat down until the wine is just simmering gently.

How to stir the risotto: Stir almost constantly to agitate the rice. Do not let the rice sizzle on the bottom of the pot.

How to add the broth: When the wine is almost cooked away, pour in 2 ladles of the hot clam broth-water mixture. Stir well to combine, and add a healthy pinch of salt.

How to test the risotto: If it is almost firm in the center but translucent on the outside, and fully surrounded with a creamy sauce, add 1 more cup of broth, stir well, and taste one more time for salt.

How to add the shrimp and herbs: Add in the shrimp, the parsley, and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir constantly until the last cup of broth is about halved and the risotto is loose and creamy.

How to finish the risotto: Right before serving, add in the lemon zest and serve at once. Enjoy!

How To Make Shrimp Risotto

Cook a quick and flavorful dinner with this shrimp risotto cooked in wine and seafood stock, then finished with lemon zest and parsley.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozclam juice,or fresh seafood stock
4cupswater
3tbspbutter
1large shallot,finely chopped
1cuprisotto rice,like Arborio, Carnaroli or Vialone Nano
1cupdry white wine,(Sauvignon Blanc)
2cupssmall pink shrimp
2tbspparsley,finely chopped
1tbsplemon zest,finely grated
salt

Instructions

Add the clam juice to 4 cups of water in a pot, heat until steamy. Do not let it boil.
In a separate thick-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, and sauté the minced shallots for 2 to 3 minutes until just translucent.
Add the rice to the pot. Stir-fry the rice for 2 to 3 minutes, until all the grains are well coated in butter and are beginning to toast.
Increase the heat to high and add the white wine. With a wooden spoon, stir the rice vigorously. Once the wine boils, turn the heat down until the wine is just simmering gently.
Stir almost constantly to agitate the rice. Do not let the rice sizzle on the bottom of the pot.
When the wine is almost cooked away, pour in 2 ladles of the hot clam broth-water mixture. Stir well to combine, and add a healthy pinch of salt.
Stirring almost constantly, let this liquid reduce until it is almost gone, then add another ladle of broth. Continue this until the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Taste the spoon and see if the risotto needs salt. If so, add a small pinch.
*If it is almost firm in the center but translucent on the outside, and fully surrounded with a creamy sauce, add 1 more cup of broth, stir well, and taste one more time for salt.
Add in the shrimp, the parsley, and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir constantly until this last cup of broth is about halved and the risotto is loose and creamy.
Right before serving, add in the lemon zest and serve at once. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

*This much risotto rice should need about 4 to 5 cups of the liquid total (including the wine) to come together, so start tasting the rice at the 3rd cup.

Nutrition

Calories: 790.35kcal
Fat: 19.66g
Saturated Fat: 11.35g
Trans Fat: 0.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.81g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.70g
Carbohydrates: 87.87g
Fiber: 1.72g
Sugar: 4.45g
Protein: 41.60g
Cholesterol: 368.36mg
Sodium: 2322.22mg
Calcium: 248.61mg
Potassium: 434.40mg
Iron: 10.01mg
Vitamin A: 161.78µg
Vitamin C: 17.37mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Shrimp Risotto

When adding the clam juice and water mixture to the risotto rice, it's crucial to add it gradually, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. This slow addition of liquid is key to achieving the creamy consistency that is characteristic of a good risotto. Also, remember to stir the risotto frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to help release the starches from the rice, which also contributes to the creaminess of the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shrimp Risotto

Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Multi-task: While the risotto is cooking, prepare the shrimp and garnishes. This will help save time and ensure that everything is ready to be added to the dish at the right moment.

Use quality ingredients: Quality ingredients often require less manipulation and can enhance the overall flavor of the dish, saving time on complex seasoning and adjustments.

Keep it simple: Stick to the basic steps and avoid unnecessary complications. Simplifying the process can help save time and make the recipe more approachable for home cooks.

Prep in advance: Chop, measure, and prepare ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and minimize last-minute tasks. This can make the cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp Risotto Recipe

clam juice - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add a savory depth of flavor similar to clam juice, and it will work well in the risotto.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish while keeping it dairy-free.
risotto rice - Substitute with arborio rice: Arborio rice has a similar starchy texture and ability to absorb liquid, making it a suitable substitute for risotto rice.
dry white wine - Substitute with vegetable broth mixed with a splash of white wine vinegar: This combination can mimic the acidity and flavor of white wine in the dish.
small pink shrimp - Substitute with chopped cooked chicken: Chopped cooked chicken can provide a similar protein element and texture to the dish.
parsley - Substitute with chives: Chives can offer a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, similar to parsley.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can provide a citrusy brightness to the dish, similar to lemon zest.

Plating Ideas for a Delightful Shrimp Risotto

Elevate the plating: When presenting the shrimp risotto delight, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a ring mold to shape the risotto into a neat round, and carefully arrange the shrimp on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a touch of lemon zest for a pop of color.
Incorporate texture: Add a crispy element to the dish by topping the risotto with a delicate shrimp chip. This will provide a contrast in texture and elevate the overall dining experience.
Highlight the seafood: Showcase the star ingredient by arranging the shrimp in a visually striking manner. Consider layering the shrimp on top of the risotto in an artful design to draw attention to the exquisite seafood.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some negative space on the plate. This will create a sense of balance and elegance, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out.
Enhance with a drizzle: Just before serving, delicately drizzle a touch of high-quality olive oil over the risotto. This final touch will add a glossy sheen and a hint of richness to the dish.
Add a finishing touch: Before sending the dish out, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the shrimp risotto delight. This will enhance the flavors and provide a subtle crunch, elevating the overall dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shrimp Risotto

Pot: A pot is essential for cooking the risotto and heating the clam juice and water mixture.
Thick-bottomed pot: This type of pot is ideal for making risotto as it helps distribute heat evenly and prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the risotto as it won't scratch the pot and allows for gentle stirring.
Ladle: A ladle is used to add the hot clam broth-water mixture to the risotto gradually.

The Best Methods for Reheating Shrimp Risotto

Stovetop method: place the leftover risotto in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the rice and prevent it from drying out. Stir gently and continuously until the risotto is heated through and creamy, about 5-7 minutes. If the risotto becomes too thick, add more liquid as needed. Once heated, add a pat of butter and grate some fresh Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Microwave method: place the leftover risotto in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of chicken broth or water. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the risotto is heated through and creamy. If needed, add more liquid and continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the desired consistency is reached. Finish with a pat of butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover risotto in an oven-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the risotto is heated through and creamy. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess liquid to evaporate. Once heated, stir in a pat of butter and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Risotto cakes: for a creative twist, shape the leftover risotto into patties. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the risotto cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Serve the risotto cakes with a side salad or as a unique appetizer, topped with a dollop of sour cream or aioli.

Interesting Trivia About Shrimp Risotto Delight

Shrimp risotto delight is a classic Italian dish that originated in the northern regions of Italy. The creamy texture of the risotto is achieved by slowly adding broth and stirring constantly, allowing the rice to release its starches. This method creates a rich and velvety consistency without the need for heavy cream.

Shrimp Risotto: A Budget-Friendly Meal Option?

The cost-effectiveness of this shrimp risotto delight recipe largely depends on the availability and price of the ingredients. While shrimp and risotto rice can be on the pricier side, the dish's overall cost can be balanced by using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, considering the delightful combination of flavors and the relatively reasonable cost when carefully selecting the ingredients.

Is Shrimp Risotto a Healthy Choice?

The shrimp risotto delight recipe is a delicious and indulgent dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe uses a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat.
White wine is used, adding extra calories and alcohol content to the dish.
Risotto rice is a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and is less nutritious than whole grain alternatives.
The recipe doesn't include a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and healthy meal.

However, the recipe does have some positive aspects, such as the use of lean protein (shrimp) and the inclusion of parsley and lemon zest, which provide some vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some of the butter with olive oil, which is a healthier source of fat.
Use a low-sodium vegetable broth instead of clam juice to reduce the overall sodium content.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as asparagus, peas, or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Opt for a whole grain risotto rice or quinoa to boost the fiber and protein content of the dish.
Reduce the amount of white wine used or replace it with additional broth to lower the calorie and alcohol content.
Use a smaller portion of risotto and pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced meal.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Shrimp Risotto Recipe

This shrimp risotto delight recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of clam juice adds a depth of seafood flavor, while the addition of white wine and lemon zest brings a refreshing brightness to the dish. The method of gradually adding the broth allows the rice to release its starches, creating a creamy and luxurious texture. The incorporation of small pink shrimp adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful pop of color. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of savory and fresh elements, making it a truly delightful dish.

Enhance Your Shrimp Risotto Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Roast the asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese until tender and crispy. Serve as a flavorful and healthy side dish.

Mango Avocado Salad: Toss together ripe mango, creamy avocado, red onion, and a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing and tropical side salad.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Sauté Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions for a sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with the shrimp risotto delight.

Tasty Alternatives to Shrimp Risotto Delight

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy and flavorful risotto is made with a variety of mushrooms, giving it a rich and earthy taste. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: This zesty and savory pasta dish is made with succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and aromatic garlic. It's a quick and easy recipe that's bursting with flavor.

Berry Cobbler Delight: Indulge in this sweet and fruity dessert that's loaded with juicy berries and topped with a buttery, crumbly cobbler topping. It's a delightful treat for any occasion.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Shrimp Risotto Dinner

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with these crispy coconut shrimp. The crunchy coating pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp, and the sweet and tangy dipping sauce adds a burst of flavor with every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture of the mousse paired with the lightness of the whipped cream creates a perfect balance of flavors and a luxurious dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layered with vibrant and juicy mixed berries, creamy Greek yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, as well as a variety of textures. Each spoonful offers a refreshing and satisfying treat that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Why trust this Shrimp Risotto Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delectable shrimp risotto delight that will tantalize your taste buds. With carefully selected fresh ingredients and precise instructions, this dish promises a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of clam juice and dry white wine infuses the risotto with a rich depth of flavor, while the addition of pink shrimp and lemon zest adds a refreshing and vibrant touch. Trust in this recipe to deliver a luxurious and satisfying dining experience, showcasing the chef's expertise and passion for culinary excellence.

Have you tried this shrimp risotto recipe? Let us know how it turned out or share your own tips and tricks in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken broth instead of clam juice?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for clam juice if you prefer. It will give the risotto a different flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use a different type of seafood instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! You can use other seafood such as scallops, crab, or even a mix of seafood to make a seafood risotto.

Can I omit the wine from the recipe?

Yes, you can omit the wine. You can replace it with a splash of lemon juice or simply use more broth to deglaze the pan.

How do I know when the risotto is done cooking?

The risotto is done when it is creamy and the rice is tender with a slight bite to it. It should not be mushy. It usually takes about 18-20 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While risotto is best served immediately, you can prepare the components ahead of time and then finish the dish just before serving. Keep the risotto slightly undercooked, and finish cooking it when you are ready to serve.