Seafood Risotto with Peas

Name: Seafood Risotto with Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups seafood stock; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and calamari); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Recipes

Indulge in a creamy and flavorful Seafood Risotto with Peas, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-11T16:49:04.753Z

This Seafood Risotto with Peas combines the rich flavors of fresh seafood and creamy rice, creating a dish that's comforting yet elegant. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful combination of seafood and creamy risotto
Fresh peas add a burst of color and sweetness
Comfort food that's elegant enough for dinner parties

      

The Art of Risotto

Risotto is a classic Italian dish that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. The key to a perfect risotto lies in the technique of slowly adding stock while stirring, allowing the rice to release its starches and create that signature creamy texture. This Seafood Risotto with Peas elevates the traditional recipe by incorporating fresh seafood, making it a delightful dish for any seafood lover.

Choosing the right type of rice is crucial when making risotto. Arborio rice is the most common choice due to its high starch content, which helps achieve the creamy consistency desired in this dish. As it cooks, Arborio rice absorbs the flavors of the broth and other ingredients, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.

Another essential aspect of risotto is the gradual addition of liquid. By adding the stock one ladle at a time, you give the rice time to absorb the flavors and moisture, resulting in a beautifully cooked dish. Patience is key here; rushing the process can lead to a less-than-perfect texture.

Seafood Selection

When it comes to the seafood component of this risotto, variety is the spice of life. Using a mix of shrimp, scallops, and calamari not only enhances the flavor but also introduces different textures that make the dish more interesting. Ensure that your seafood is fresh to guarantee the best flavor and quality in your meal.

If you're not sure what seafood to choose, consider what is in season or available at your local market. Fresh fish, mussels, or even crab can be excellent substitutes or additions to this risotto. The goal is to create a harmonious blend of flavors that complements the creamy base of the risotto.

For those who prefer a lighter dish, feel free to adjust the amount of seafood to suit your taste. The peas add a nice touch of sweetness and color, making it an appealing dish for both the eyes and the palate.

Serving Suggestions

Seafood Risotto with Peas is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings, from casual family dinners to elegant dinner parties. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the seafood's flavors and enhances the overall dining experience.

For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad on the side. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the risotto. Additionally, some crusty bread can be a delightful accompaniment for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.

To elevate your presentation, garnish the risotto with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavors, making your dish look as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Seafood Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups seafood stock
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and calamari)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Stock

In a saucepan, heat the seafood stock over low heat and keep it warm.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the rice is slightly translucent.

Add the Wine

Pour in the white wine and cook until it's mostly absorbed by the rice.

Cook the Risotto

Gradually add the warm seafood stock, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until the stock is absorbed before adding more. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is al dente.

Add Seafood and Peas

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the mixed seafood and frozen peas. Stir until the seafood is cooked through and the peas are heated.

Finish with Parmesan

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutritional Benefits

This Seafood Risotto with Peas is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Seafood is a great source of lean protein, packed with essential omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health. The addition of peas contributes a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making this dish a well-rounded option for any meal.

Arborio rice, while higher in carbohydrates, provides a good source of energy, making this dish a satisfying choice. When paired with the health benefits of seafood and vegetables, you can indulge in a comforting meal without compromising on nutrition.

Don't hesitate to customize the dish further by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or asparagus. These additions can enhance the nutritional profile and add more vibrant colors to your plate.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your Seafood Risotto is simple. Allow the risotto to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that risotto tends to thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

To reheat, place the risotto in a saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also use the microwave, but be sure to check for even heating. Adding a little extra broth or water can help restore its creamy texture.

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, these tips ensure you can savor your delicious creation even a day or two later. Just remember that the flavors may intensify, making each bite even more delightful!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seafood you prefer.

→ Is Arborio rice necessary for risotto?

Yes, Arborio rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture of risotto.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the seafood with vegetables such as mushrooms and asparagus.

→ Can risotto be made ahead of time?

While risotto is best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat gently with a bit of extra stock.