Creamy Lemon Asparagus Risotto with Succulent Shrimp
This Creamy Lemon Asparagus Risotto with Succulent Shrimp is a delightful dish that showcases the bright flavors of lemon and fresh seasonal asparagus. The creamy texture of Arborio rice combined with tender shrimp creates a deliciously satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed at a family dinner or as a special treat for friends, this risotto is an impressive yet simple dish that promises to please the palate. Garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan, it's a true celebration of freshness and flavor.
4
Servings
225
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
reduced-sodium chicken broth
3 cups (Simmering)
water
2 cups (Simmering)
asparagus
3/4 lb (Trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces)
small onion
1 (Finely chopped)
unsalted butter
4 tablespoons (Divided)
arborio rice
1 1/4 cups (No preparation needed)
dry white wine
1/4 cup (No preparation needed)
medium shrimp
3/4 lb (Peeled and deveined)
grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon (No preparation needed)
grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (No preparation needed)
chopped flat leaf parsley
2 tablespoons (No preparation needed)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, bring the reduced-sodium chicken broth and water to a gentle simmer. Add the trimmed asparagus and simmer uncovered for about 4 minutes, or until the asparagus is just tender.
2
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the asparagus to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, then drain and set aside. Keep the broth mixture at a barely simmering temperature, covered.
3
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and 1/4 teaspoon of salt, cooking for about 5 minutes or until the onion is softened and translucent.
4
Stir in the Arborio rice, cooking for 1 minute while stirring constantly to coat the rice with the butter and onion mixture.
5
Pour in the dry white wine, stirring continually until the wine is fully absorbed by the rice.
6
Next, add 1/2 cup of the simmering broth to the rice mixture, stirring frequently and allowing it to absorb before adding the next 1/2 cup. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and tender yet still al dente, which should take approximately 18 minutes. You may not need to use all of the broth.
7
Once the rice is at the desired consistency, fold in the cooked shrimp, grated lemon zest, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and pepper to taste. If the risotto is too thick, stir in some of the remaining broth to achieve your preferred creaminess.
8
Serve the risotto hot, garnished with additional parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Information
8g
Fat
22.5g
Carbs
12g
Protein
1.5g
Fiber
0.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Lemon Asparagus Risotto with Succulent Shrimp?
It is a bright and flavorful dish featuring Arborio rice, fresh asparagus, and tender shrimp, finished with lemon zest and parmesan cheese.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What type of rice is best for this risotto?
The recipe specifies 1 1/4 cups of Arborio rice, which is essential for creating a creamy texture.
How should the asparagus be prepared?
The 3/4 lb of asparagus should be trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces before simmering.
Why do I need an ice bath for the asparagus?
Transferring the asparagus to an ice bath after simmering for 4 minutes halts the cooking process, keeping it tender and green.
What kind of broth is recommended?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of reduced-sodium chicken broth mixed with 2 cups of water.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe specifically lists 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided for different stages of cooking.
What type of wine should I use?
Use 1/4 cup of dry white wine to deglaze the pan after toasting the rice.
How long does the rice take to cook?
The rice typically takes approximately 18 minutes to reach a creamy, al dente consistency.
What size shrimp are used in this recipe?
The recipe suggests using 3/4 lb of medium shrimp that have been peeled and deveined.
When do I add the shrimp to the risotto?
The shrimp are folded in at the end of the cooking process once the rice has reached the desired consistency.
How much lemon zest is needed?
You will need 1 tablespoon of grated lemon zest to give the dish its bright flavor.
What kind of cheese is added to the risotto?
1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese is folded into the rice at the end.
What herbs are used for garnishing?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of chopped flat-leaf parsley.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 225 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 8g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 22.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in the shrimp risotto?
Each serving provides 12g of protein.
Is this dish high in fiber?
No, it contains a modest 1.5g of fiber per serving.
What is the sugar content?
There is only 0.5g of sugar per serving.
How many total ingredients are required?
There are 11 primary ingredients listed for this recipe.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to bring the chicken broth and water to a simmer and cook the trimmed asparagus.
How do I cook the onion?
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and cook the finely chopped onion with salt for about 5 minutes until softened.
How should I add the broth to the rice?
Add the simmering broth 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently and allowing each addition to absorb before adding more.
What should I do if the risotto is too thick?
If it is too thick, simply stir in some of the remaining broth to achieve your preferred creaminess.
Is this considered Italian cuisine?
Yes, it is tagged as Italian cuisine and is a classic risotto preparation.
Is this a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal, suitable for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Does the recipe include sodium information?
The recipe data does not specify the exact sodium or cholesterol content.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include risotto, shrimp, asparagus, lemon, creamy, dinner, comfort food, and seafood.
How do I finish the dish before serving?
Garnish the hot risotto with additional parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired.