Seafood Risotto with White Wine

Name: Seafood Risotto with White Wine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups seafood broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Seafood Risotto with White Wine because it brings a taste of the ocean right to my kitchen. The creamy, dreamy texture and the depth of flavor from the white wine always leave my family and friends asking for seconds. I enjoy the process of slowly stirring the risotto, watching it transform into a hearty dish that balances rich seafood with a hint of acidity from the wine. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner party.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:25:09.600Z

When I first attempted this Seafood Risotto, I was a bit intimidated by the idea of creating a creamy dish without it turning into a mushy mess. To my delight, using a mix of fresh seafood and carefully chosen broth made a world of difference. I learned that patience is key; the slow pouring of the wine and gradual addition of stock help develop those beautiful flavors beautifully.

Each time, I switch up the seafood depending on what's fresh at the market, giving the dish a unique twist that keeps everyone guessing. My favorite tip? Reserve a bit of the seafood to add in at the end—this elevates the presentation and ensures every bite has a burst of flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The creamy texture is simply irresistible.
Perfect balance of seafood flavors enhanced by white wine.
Great for special occasions or cozy family dinners.

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star ingredient in this Seafood Risotto. It’s a medium-grain rice known for its high starch content, which creates the signature creaminess of risotto. When cooked, Arborio rice releases its starch, giving the dish an exquisite texture. Make sure to use Arborio rather than regular rice or substitutes; other varieties won't achieve the same creaminess and may result in a mushy or dry dish.

To ensure the rice cooks evenly, always start with a light toast in the skillet. This not only adds a nutty flavor but also helps each grain maintain its structure during the slow cooking process. Cook it until the edges are slightly translucent, typically around 2-3 minutes, before adding the wine.

Enhancing Seafood Flavor

The choice of seafood is crucial for a well-balanced risotto. The addition of shrimp, scallops, and mussels brings a variety of flavors and textures. I like to choose seafood that not only complements each other but also stands up to the acidity of the white wine. Ensure your seafood is fresh; frozen options can work, but thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

When sautéing the seafood, take care not to overcook it, as it continues to cook when added back to the risotto. You want each piece to be just cooked through, retaining its natural sweetness and tenderness. When removing it from the heat, it can be a good idea to reserve a bit of the cooking liquid to boost the flavor profile as you combine it back into the dish.

Serving and Storing Recommendations

Serving the risotto immediately is key to enjoying its creamy texture at its best. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor. Pair it with a glass of the same white wine used in cooking—it enhances the dish beautifully and makes for a delightful dining experience.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to bring back its creaminess, and stir on low heat until warmed through. However, be aware that risotto tends to thicken as it cools, so don't skip this step!

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, let's gather all the delicious ingredients you’ll need for this dish!

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups seafood broth
1 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Now that we have everything ready, we can get started on making this fantastic risotto!

Instructions

Let’s begin the cooking process to create this delightful Seafood Risotto.

Prepare the Seafood

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the mixed seafood and sauté until just cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted. Pour in white wine and let it simmer until fully absorbed.

Add Broth Gradually

Begin adding the seafood broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is almost absorbed before adding more broth. This process should take about 20 minutes.

Finish the Risotto

When the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the cooked seafood and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the risotto hot, garnishing with fresh parsley for a lovely touch.

Enjoy your homemade Seafood Risotto with White Wine, perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips

Always use fresh seafood for the best flavor, and feel free to experiment with different types, such as crab or clams.

Troubleshooting Risotto Consistency

Achieving the perfect risotto consistency can be tricky. If you find your risotto too thick or dry upon serving, simply stir in a bit more broth or water, a ladleful at a time, while gently reheating. This can return your risotto to that luscious, creamy state.

Conversely, if your risotto seems too watery, allow it to sit for a minute off the heat. The residual heat will help it absorb some excess liquid. You can also finish the dish with more cheese to help thicken this sauce without compromising on flavor.

Risotto Variations

For a twist on the traditional risotto, consider adding seasonal vegetables like asparagus or peas. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds texture and color to your dish. Sauté the vegetables alongside the onions and garlic to infuse their taste throughout the risotto.

If you're looking for a lighter version, swap out the seafood for sautéed mushrooms, which can offer a rich, umami flavor while still providing that delightful creaminess, making for a vegetarian alternative that doesn’t shy away from flavor.

Storage Tips

To preserve the texture of your risotto when storing, make sure to spread it out in a shallow container. This aids in even cooling and helps prevent it from clumping together. Seal tightly to avoid absorbing any strong refrigerator odors.

If you wish to freeze the risotto, do so immediately after cooking in portions. When reheating, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the reheating tips to bring back its creamy state while retaining flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it properly and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

→ What type of white wine is best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well for this dish.

→ Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time to save on cooking time.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a bit of broth.