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 1/2 cups Arborio rice; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fish or chicken broth, warm; 1 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup scallops; 1 cup mussels, cleaned; 1 cup squid, sliced

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making this Seafood Risotto with White Wine, as it has quickly become one of my go-to comfort dishes. The creamy Arborio rice, combined with an array of succulent seafood, creates a meal that feels both indulgent and rewarding. The addition of white wine not only enhances the flavors but also adds a touch of elegance to the dish. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, as it's perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:10:15.722Z

Cooking seafood risotto is not only a delightful culinary experience but also allows me to showcase fresh ingredients. I once tried making it with mixed seafood leftover from a family gathering, and it turned out to be a hit! The balancing act of stirring the rice while adding warm broth is what truly brings the dish together, creating that creamy consistency we all love.

One detail that elevates this risotto is using a good-quality white wine. I have experimented with different varieties, and I prefer a dry white that complements the seafood without overpowering it. It adds depth to the flavor profile, making every bite unforgettable.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that envelops every piece of seafood
The brightness of white wine lifts the flavors beautifully
A one-pot meal that's perfect for any occasion

      

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Choosing the right rice is crucial in making a perfect risotto. Arborio rice is a short-grain variety known for its high starch content, which contributes to the creamy texture. As it cooks, the rice releases starch, helping to thicken the dish and creating a luxurious mouthfeel. Avoid using long-grain rice varieties, as they won't yield the same creaminess. Make sure to monitor the rice closely, cooking it until it's al dente—just firm to the bite—while still releasing some starch into the broth.

When toasting Arborio rice, it's essential to stir it continuously for even cooking. You'll know it's properly toasted when the grains turn slightly translucent and begin to emit a nutty aroma, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes over medium heat. This step not only enhances the flavor but also prepares the rice to absorb the broth better, ensuring that you achieve that decadent risotto consistency.

Seafood Selection and Preparation

Fresh seafood is the star of this risotto, and the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the dish's flavor. For the best results, try to purchase seafood that is sustainably sourced and in season. Shrimp, scallops, mussels, and squid add a variety of textures and flavors, but feel free to swap them out for your favorites or what’s available. Just keep in mind the cooking times—shellfish generally cook quickly, so add them toward the end to avoid overcooking.

When cleaning seafood, a few moments of care can elevate your dish. Ensure that shrimp are peeled and deveined properly, and that mussels are scrubbed clean and debearded. For squid, slicing it evenly ensures uniform cooking. If you're unsure about seafood freshness, always opt for sea-to-table options or visit local fish markets where you can ask questions about the catch of the day.

Perfecting Your Risotto Technique

Risotto is all about patience; the key to achieving that creamy consistency lies in how you add your broth. Instead of pouring all the liquid at once, incorporate it gradually—one ladle at a time. Stir constantly; this agitation helps release the starches and helps the rice absorb flavors evenly. Expect the cooking process to take about 20 minutes, and keep an eye on it—ideal risotto will slightly jiggle when stirred but should still hold its shape.

To finish your risotto with the perfect balance of flavor, remove it from heat before stirring in the Parmesan cheese. This prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery and allows it to melt smoothly into the dish. For an extra touch, you can add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of zest at the end. This brightens the dish and can beautifully enhance the delicate seafood flavors.

Ingredients

Gather all of the following ingredients for a delicious seafood risotto.

For the Risotto

1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fish or chicken broth, warm
1 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For the Seafood

1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup scallops
1 cup mussels, cleaned
1 cup squid, sliced

Make sure all seafood is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfect seafood risotto.

Prepare the Broth

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

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.

Add the Wine

Pour in the white wine and stir until it’s mostly absorbed by the rice.

Incorporate the Broth

Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. Repeat this process for about 20 minutes.

Add Seafood

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the shrimp, scallops, mussels, and squid. Cook until the seafood is cooked through and the risotto is creamy.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your flavorful, creamy seafood risotto!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use fresh seafood and do not rush the broth absorption
patience is key for creamy risotto.

Serving Suggestions

This Seafood Risotto is best served immediately after preparing, as its creamy texture is best when freshly cooked. To serve, spoon generous portions into warm bowls and finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. You can also offer extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil on the side for guests who might want to enhance their own portions.

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the seafood beautifully. A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette can serve as a refreshing side that balances the richness of the risotto. If you're hosting, consider a simple charcuterie board as an appetizer to set the tone for a delightful dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare elements in advance to save time. You can clean and chop your seafood a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, the broth can be made ahead of time and reheated just before adding it to the rice. If you find yourself with leftover risotto, it’s recommended to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the texture might change once refrigerated.

To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the risotto to help restore its creamy consistency. Heat it gently over low heat and stir frequently. The goal is to bring it back to a creamy state without overcooking the seafood. You could also try turning it into arancini—small, fried risotto balls—for a delightful transformation of leftovers!

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with different types of seafood based on preference or availability. You can replace the scallops with clams or add in crab meat for a more luxurious version. For a vegetarian take, consider using mushrooms or roasted vegetables, allowing the same technique to shine without the seafood. Just be cautious with cooking times and adapt as necessary, ensuring all ingredients are cooked to perfection.

Additionally, you can infuse the broth with flavors by simmering aromatics such as bay leaves, parsley stems, or peppercorns. This adds depth to the dish and can provide interesting flavor profiles. Another fun idea is to incorporate seasonal ingredients—think asparagus in spring or diced tomatoes in summer—for a risotto that reflects the flavors of each season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking for the best texture.

→ Can I make risotto in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the base and add seafood later.

→ What kind of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works best.

→ How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be tender yet al dente, creating a creamy consistency.