Shrimp Risotto with Peas

Creamy shrimp risotto with peas is a delightful dish that combines the richness of seafood with the freshness of vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. The balance of flavors, highlighted by lemon and fennel, makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or cooking for yourself, this shrimp risotto with peas will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of fennel, lemon zest, and Pecorino Romano cheese creates a creamy and flavorful experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute fresh or frozen peas and adjust the type of shrimp based on what you have available.
• Elegant Presentation: Serve this risotto in warm bowls garnished with dill for an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish offers a balanced meal without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather your essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will ensure you can focus on creating your delicious shrimp risotto with peas.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Small saucepan
• Ladle
• Wooden spoon
• Grater (for cheese and zest)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: Ideal for cooking the risotto evenly while allowing enough space for stirring.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for keeping the stock warm without boiling it.
• Ladle: Useful for adding stock gradually to achieve the desired creaminess in your risotto.
• Grater: Essential for finely grating cheese and zesting lemons to enhance flavor.

Ingredients

Creamy shrimp risotto with fennel, lemon, and peas—a quick and elegant meal for any occasion.

• 2 ¾ cups fish or seafood stock
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 shallot, minced, or ¼ cup minced onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp crushed fennel seeds
• 5 oz risotto rice (Arborio, Carnaroli, or Vialone Nano)
• ½ cup dry white apple vinegar (e.g., Pinot Grigio)
• ½ cup frozen peas, thawed, or fresh shelled peas
• ½ lb cooked small shrimp
• 1 oz finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh dill leaves
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shrimp Risotto with Peas

Step 1: Prepare the Stock

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

Step 2: Sauté Shallots

In a large sauté pan, melt the butter in olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the shallot and cook, stirring, for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Flavors

Add the garlic, fennel seeds, and risotto rice. Stir for about 2 minutes until the grains are translucent around the edges.

Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar

Pour in the white apple vinegar. Stir vigorously while it bubbles up to loosen caramelized bits from the pan. Allow it to simmer until fully absorbed.

Step 5: Gradually Add Stock

Add one ladleful of stock at a time. Stir occasionally and let each addition absorb before adding more. When there is about one cup of stock left, stir in the peas.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese and Shrimp

Add Pecorino Romano cheese into the mixture and stir until melted. Next, add cooked shrimp along with lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with black pepper and salt to taste before stirring in any remaining stock.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

The risotto should be loose and creamy. Cover it up, turn off the heat, and let it rest for about five minutes before serving.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Serve in warm bowls. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, garnish with dill leaves, and add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for that finishing touch!

How to Serve Shrimp Risotto with Peas

Serving shrimp risotto with peas can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement this creamy dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Dill Leaves: Fresh dill adds a wonderful herbal note that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and lemon.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a fresh flavor contrast.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the risotto.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that complements the flavors in the risotto.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Slices of warm baguette are perfect for scooping up creamy risotto.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic taste offers a delicious pairing that enhances the overall meal.

How to Perfect Shrimp Risotto with Peas

Creating the perfect shrimp risotto requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to achieve a restaurant-quality dish at home.

• Use Quality Stock: A rich fish or seafood stock enhances the flavor of your risotto significantly.
• Stir Constantly: Regular stirring helps release starch from the rice, making your risotto creamy.
• Add Liquid Gradually: Incorporate stock one ladle at a time to allow for proper absorption and creaminess.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning throughout cooking ensures balanced flavors and avoids over-salting at the end.
• Finish with Cheese: Adding Pecorino Romano cheese at the end creates an extra layer of creaminess and depth.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Risotto with Peas

Pairing side dishes with shrimp risotto can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and crunch, making it a great complement.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables provides hearty texture and flavor balance.
3. Garlic Lemon Broccoli: Sautéed broccoli with garlic and lemon offers bright acidity that pairs well with shrimp.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a refreshing bite alongside the rich risotto.
5. Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar’s crisp romaine and tangy dressing work well against creamy textures.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies makes for a vibrant starter before the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Shrimp Risotto with Peas can be simple, but beginners often make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect creamy risotto.

• Ignoring the stock temperature: Using cold stock can shock the rice. Always keep your fish or seafood stock warm to ensure even cooking.

• Not stirring enough: Risotto requires attention. Stir regularly to release the starches that create its signature creaminess.

• Using too much liquid at once: Adding all the stock at once will lead to uneven cooking. Introduce one ladleful at a time and let it absorb before adding more.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked. Add them towards the end of cooking for tender and juicy results.

• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your risotto before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed, especially with the addition of Pecorino Romano cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp risotto in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Shrimp Risotto with Peas

• Place risotto in a freezer-safe container before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Shrimp Risotto with Peas

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place risotto in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Transfer risotto to a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or broth, and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

• Stovetop: Warm a pan over medium heat and add a little broth or water. Stir in the risotto until heated through for a creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes shrimp risotto creamy?

The creaminess of shrimp risotto comes from the starch released by stirring Arborio rice during cooking, combined with added cheese and butter.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used in this recipe! Just ensure they are cooked briefly to maintain their vibrant color and sweetness.

How do I know when the shrimp is done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes just a few minutes when added at the end of cooking.

Can I customize my shrimp risotto with peas?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like asparagus or spinach, substitute different cheeses, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Shrimp risotto can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep options.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Risotto with Peas is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner or serving guests at a special gathering, its creamy texture and vibrant flavors are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your taste—add herbs, vegetables, or different types of seafood to make it uniquely yours!

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