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; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 cup fresh peas; 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup scallops; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Delicious Meals

Delight in a creamy Seafood Risotto with Peas, combining fresh seafood with tender rice and vibrant green peas for a dish that is both comforting and elegant.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-11T16:34:04.961Z

This Seafood Risotto with Peas is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish showcases the freshness of seafood paired with the creaminess of Arborio rice.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that hugs each grain of rice
Fresh seafood elevates the dish to gourmet status
Bright green peas add a pop of color and sweetness

      

The Art of Risotto

Risotto is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. The key to achieving the perfect risotto lies in the choice of rice. Arborio rice, with its high starch content, creates a luscious and velvety finish. This dish requires patience as you gradually add warm stock, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid slowly, resulting in a beautifully cooked grain that retains a slight bite.

Cooking risotto is not just about the technique; it's also about the ingredients. Using fresh seafood and seasonal peas elevates this dish, making it not only comforting but also gourmet. The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience that pleases the palate, making it perfect for both family dinners and elegant gatherings.

Choosing the Right Seafood

For this seafood risotto, selecting high-quality seafood is essential. Fresh shrimp and scallops provide a sweet and delicate flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy rice. When purchasing seafood, look for firm and translucent shrimp, and ensure the scallops are plump and moist. If fresh seafood isn't available, frozen options can work well; just ensure they are properly thawed before cooking.

Additionally, feel free to customize the seafood in this risotto. You could incorporate mussels, clams, or even some flaky white fish, depending on your preference. The important thing is to balance the ingredients so that the seafood complements the risotto without overpowering it, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Seafood Risotto with Peas can be served as a standalone dish, showcasing its elegance and flavor. However, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread can elevate the meal further. A light citrus vinaigrette on the salad complements the seafood beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For the perfect wine pairing, consider a chilled glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines have refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the risotto, making each bite even more enjoyable. Don't forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an added touch of flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Stock

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

Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Cook the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes until slightly translucent.

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring, until it is mostly absorbed by the rice.

Incorporate the Stock

Begin adding the warm seafood stock, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next, which should take about 20 minutes.

Add Seafood and Peas

When the rice is al dente, stir in the shrimp, scallops, and peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the seafood is cooked through.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their quality. Allow the risotto to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of seafood stock or water to loosen the consistency, as the rice will absorb moisture while stored.

It's important to note that risotto is best enjoyed fresh, as the texture changes upon reheating. However, with the right methods, you can still savor the flavors of your Seafood Risotto even a few days later. Just be cautious not to overcook it during reheating to avoid a gummy texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Seafood Risotto with Peas not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers several nutritional benefits. The combination of shrimp and scallops provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Additionally, the peas contribute dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a wholesome choice.

Moreover, the healthy fats found in olive oil are beneficial for heart health. Incorporating this risotto into your diet can provide a balanced meal that is satisfying and nutritious. With the right ingredients, this dish can easily be part of a healthy lifestyle while still delivering on flavor and satisfaction.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood can be used. Just ensure it is fully thawed before adding to the risotto.

→ What type of rice is best for risotto?

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

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the seafood with mushrooms and vegetable stock for a delicious vegetarian risotto.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Risotto is best served fresh, but you can prepare the base and reheat it gently before adding the seafood and peas.