Lemon risotto with shrimps

Lemon risotto with shrimps combines creamy rice with zesty lemon and spicy chili shrimp, creating a delightful and sophisticated dish. It's a perfect merge of comforting textures and vibrant flavors, ideal for an easy yet elegant meal.

25 Dec 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 red onion
2 cups white rice
4 cups chicken gravy
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 garlic cloves
2 red hot chili peppers
12 oz shrimps
1/2 bunch fresh parsley
5 cups arugula

Lemon risotto with chili shrimps is a delightful and zesty dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant mix of flavors. Combining the creaminess of risotto, the zing of lemon, and the spicy kick of chili shrimps, this recipe is perfect for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the red onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Thinly slice the red hot chili peppers.
- Roughly chop the fresh parsley.
- Peel and devein the shrimps, if not pre-prepared.

2. Cook the Risotto:
- In a large frying pan or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped red onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the rice and cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring that each grain is coated with the oil and slightly toasted.
- Begin to add the chicken gravy, one cup at a time, stirring constantly. Allow the rice to absorb most of the liquid before adding more. Continue this process until all the gravy is absorbed and the rice is creamy and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon zest and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Chili Shrimps:
- In a separate large pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced red hot chili peppers, cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the shrimps and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they turn pink and are cooked through, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine and Serve:
- Gently fold the fresh parsley into the risotto.
- Arrange the arugula on individual serving plates.
- Spoon the lemon risotto onto the bed of arugula.
- Top each serving with the chili shrimps.

5. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Optionally, you can garnish with additional lemon zest or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Lemon Risotto with Chili Shrimps!

Your lemon risotto with chili shrimps is now ready to be served. The creamy risotto, fresh lemon zest, and spicy shrimps create a perfect balance of flavors that is both comforting and exciting. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy this aromatic and delicious dish!

Lemon risotto with shrimps FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the risotto?

The risotto typically takes about 20-25 minutes to cook. You'll want to add the chicken gravy one cup at a time and stir until absorbed for the best creaminess.

How can I tell when the shrimps are done cooking?

Shrimps are done when they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes of cooking over medium-high heat. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

Can I substitute the white rice with another type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute Arborio rice, which is traditional for risotto. Other short-grain rice varieties might work, but their cooking times and absorbency may vary.

What is the best way to store leftover risotto?

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken gravy or water to restore creaminess.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can make the risotto vegetarian by omitting the shrimps and using vegetable broth instead of chicken gravy. Adjust seasoning to enhance flavor.

Tips:

- Use freshly grated lemon zest for the best flavor.

- Stir the risotto continuously to achieve a creamy consistency.

- Make sure the shrimps are peeled and deveined for a better texture and easier eating.

- Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference.

- Add the lemon zest towards the end of cooking to retain its fresh, vibrant flavor.

- Serve immediately to enjoy the risotto at its best creamy texture.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 610kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 110g
Fiber 3.54g
Sugar 4.69g
Fat 14g

Lemon risotto with shrimps