Seafood Risotto with Peas

Name: Seafood Risotto with Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups chicken or seafood broth; 1 cup white wine; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen); 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup scallops, cleaned; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

Delve into the creamy goodness of Seafood Risotto with Peas, a dish that beautifully blends fresh seafood with tender rice and vibrant peas.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-11T19:18:06.775Z

This Seafood Risotto with Peas is a delightful dish that showcases the best of coastal cuisine. The creamy risotto pairs perfectly with a medley of fresh seafood and sweet peas, making it a favorite for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Fresh seafood flavor that transports you to the coast
A pop of sweetness from the peas complements the dish perfectly

      

The Art of Risotto

Risotto is a traditional Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. The secret to achieving the perfect risotto lies in the type of rice used and the method of cooking. Arborio rice, with its high starch content, creates that indulgent creaminess we all love. As you stir, the rice releases its starch, creating a velvety sauce that coats each grain. This technique requires patience, but the result is well worth the effort.

When making risotto, it’s essential to keep the broth warm and add it gradually. This process allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the broth. Each ladleful should be absorbed before adding more, ensuring that the rice reaches a perfect al dente consistency. This careful attention transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dish that feels special for any occasion.

Choosing Your Seafood

The beauty of Seafood Risotto lies in its versatility. You can use a variety of seafood to suit your preferences or what's available at your local market. Shrimp and scallops are fantastic choices, but consider adding mussels or even lobster for an extravagant touch. When selecting seafood, freshness is key. Look for vibrant colors and a fresh, briny smell, which are indicators of high-quality seafood.

If you're using frozen seafood, make sure to thaw it properly before adding it to the risotto. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess water from being released into your dish. Incorporating seafood not only enhances the flavor profile but also provides a nutritious boost, making this risotto a balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Seafood Risotto, presentation matters. Serve it in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the creamy texture and vibrant colors of the seafood and peas. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance the flavors even more.

Pair your risotto with a crisp, chilled white wine to complement the seafood. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully, enhancing the dining experience. For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad or some crusty bread on the side to soak up any remaining sauce. This dish is sure to impress your guests and elevate any dinner occasion.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups chicken or seafood broth
1 cup white wine
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup scallops, cleaned
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the chicken or seafood broth and keep it warm over low heat.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine and stir until it has mostly evaporated.

Gradually Add Broth

Begin adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait for the liquid to be absorbed before adding more.

Incorporate Seafood and Peas

After about 15 minutes, stir in the shrimp and scallops along with the peas. Continue to add broth and stir until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Finish the Risotto

Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutritional Benefits

Seafood Risotto with Peas not only delights the palate but also offers several health benefits. Seafood is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Incorporating peas adds a nutritious boost, as they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This dish provides a well-rounded meal that is satisfying and nourishing.

Arborio rice, while high in carbohydrates, is also a good source of energy. When enjoyed in moderation, it can be part of a healthy diet. The combination of seafood, peas, and creamy risotto makes this dish a wholesome choice for both lunch and dinner.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, Seafood Risotto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy texture, as risotto tends to thicken when chilled.

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze risotto for longer storage. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. For the best results, freeze individual portions so you can enjoy a quick meal anytime without compromising on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood works well in this recipe. Just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking.

→ What type of rice is best for risotto?

Arborio rice is ideal for risotto due to its high starch content, which creates a creamy texture.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute seafood with mushrooms and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian risotto.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.