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 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup Arborio rice; 1/2 cup white wine; 4 cups seafood broth; 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup scallops; 1/2 cup frozen peas; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making Seafood Risotto with White Wine on special occasions. The creamy texture paired with the fresh flavors of seafood creates a comforting dish that never fails to impress. I love how the hint of white wine adds depth, transforming a simple risotto into a culinary masterpiece. It's the kind of dish that invites conversation around the dinner table, and I find joy in every bite. Plus, it’s easier than you might think, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:04:17.116Z

When I first made Seafood Risotto with White Wine, I was amazed by how well the flavors blended together. I used a rich homemade broth, which elevated the dish significantly. The key is to add the broth gradually, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid slowly while stirring.

I also found that using fresh seafood makes a noticeable difference. The sweet, succulent shrimp and tender scallops added a beautiful texture, and the white wine created a lovely aroma. It's a dish I now reserve for celebrations any time I want to treat my loved ones.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich seafood flavor enhanced by a splash of white wine
Creamy risotto that’s perfectly cooked and comforting
Versatile enough for a weeknight meal or special occasions

      

Mastering the Risotto Texture

The key to achieving a perfect risotto lies in the slow addition of the seafood broth. By ladling in one portion at a time, you allow the Arborio rice to release its starches, creating that signature creamy texture. Keep the heat at medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer—too high and the liquid will evaporate before the rice has a chance to absorb it. Aim for a risotto that is al dente, with each grain softened yet offering a slight bite.

Risotto benefits from consistent stirring, which not only prevents burning but also contributes to its creaminess. As you stir, you can observe the rice transforming into a glossy, cohesive dish. If the rice appears to be sticking to the bottom of the pan, give it a good scrape with your wooden spoon to release those flavorful bits. This technique plays a crucial role in developing the depth of flavor in your final dish.

Choosing Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality seafood makes a noticeable difference in this risotto. Fresh shrimp and scallops provide sweet, briny flavors that elevate the dish. If local seafood is unavailable, frozen options are a convenient substitute—just make sure they're sustainably sourced and properly thawed beforehand. Consider adding a mix of shellfish like mussels or clams for varied tastes and textures that can enhance the overall seafood experience.

The white wine chosen for this recipe impacts the flavor profile significantly. Opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio; these varieties contribute acidity without overwhelming sweetness. A good rule of thumb is to use a wine you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will be concentrated in the dish. If you prefer to cook without alcohol, swap the wine for additional seafood broth mixed with a splash of lemon juice to retain a fresh, tangy note.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Seafood Risotto:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Arborio rice
1/2 cup white wine
4 cups seafood broth
1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup scallops
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start, as risotto requires your full attention!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Seafood Risotto:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.

Add Wine and Simmer

Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until it has mostly evaporated. This enhances the flavor of the risotto.

Gradually Add Broth

Begin adding the seafood broth one ladle at a time, allowing the rice to absorb it fully before adding more. Stir frequently. This process should take about 15 minutes.

Add Seafood and Peas

When the rice is almost cooked, stir in the shrimp, scallops, and frozen peas. Cook for another 5 minutes until the seafood is cooked through.

Finish with Cheese

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

Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best texture.

Enjoy your delicious Seafood Risotto while it's hot!

Pro Tips

Make sure to stir frequently for creamy risotto. Avoid adding too much broth at once to maintain the right consistency. Fresh seafood will yield the best flavor, so opt for what's local and in season.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover risotto, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the risotto in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. This will help restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving directly, as it can lead to uneven heating and make the risotto gummy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the risotto. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it should keep for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the same reheating instructions for the best results.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Serve your seafood risotto garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving also brightens the dish beautifully. For a restaurant-quality touch, consider adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few capers for a bit of briny punch.

Pair your risotto with a crisp side salad featuring arugula or mixed greens dressed lightly with vinaigrette. A glass of the same white wine used in the dish complements the meal perfectly, creating a cohesive flavor experience. This makes for a delightful dinner option that's sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of seafood?

Absolutely! Feel free to use mussels, clams, or any seafood you prefer.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can try using lemon juice or additional broth if you want to go alcohol-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

→ Can I make risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best served fresh, but you can prepare the broth and seafood in advance to save time.