Shrimp and Spring Pea Risotto

Name: Shrimp and Spring Pea Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh or frozen spring peas; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh lemon juice (optional); Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh Food | Clean Eating

I love making Shrimp and Spring Pea Risotto because it always feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. The creaminess of the risotto combined with the sweet pops of fresh peas and succulent shrimp create a symphony of flavors that I just can't resist. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough to serve to guests. I also appreciate how the process of stirring the rice helps to create a rich, velvety texture that takes this dish to the next level of comfort food.

Created by

The Chefliambakes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:10:18.036Z

When I first tried making risotto, I was a bit intimidated by the constant stirring, but I soon realized it's a labor of love. The secret is to be patient and add the broth gradually, allowing the rice to absorb all those wonderful flavors. I like to finish the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the entire flavor profile.

One afternoon, I experimented by adding spring peas to my risotto and it was a game changer! The fresh sweetness of the peas perfectly complements the savory shrimp, making each bite a delightful experience. I’ll never make risotto without them again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy, luxurious texture that comforts the soul
Fresh spring peas offer a sweet burst of flavor
Easy enough for a cozy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the key to achieving the creamy texture that defines risotto. Its high starch content allows for the gradual release of creaminess as you stir and add broth. When cooking, it's essential to avoid rinsing the rice before use, as this will wash away the starch that contributes to the dish's velvety mouthfeel. Additionally, if you can’t find Arborio rice, you can substitute with Carnaroli or Vialone Nano, both of which produce similarly luxurious results.

When toasting the Arborio rice in olive oil, ensure it becomes translucent rather than browned. This process helps to release the starches effectively during cooking. Stirring continuously while adding the broth allows the rice to absorb the liquid and become creamy. It's crucial to maintain an even temperature; too high and the rice may cook unevenly, while too low can extend cooking time beyond 20 minutes.

Perfecting the Shrimp and Peas

For optimal flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp when available. They should be cooked just right—firm and pink—which usually takes only about 5 minutes in the risotto. If you prefer using frozen shrimp, thaw them beforehand and add them directly from the freezer; they will still cook evenly and retain moisture. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can turn rubbery and lose their delicate sweetness.

Spring peas are best added toward the end of the cooking process to maintain their sweetness and bright green color. If using frozen peas, there's no need for additional cooking time; just stir them in during the last 5 minutes alongside the shrimp. This way, they heat through while retaining their pop and vibrant flavor, balancing beautifully with the richness of the risotto.

Storing and Serving Tips

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a bit more broth or water to loosen the risotto, as it tends to thicken as it cools. Gently warm it on low heat while stirring to bring back some creaminess, ensuring that it doesn't become too stiff or dry.

When serving Shrimp and Spring Pea Risotto, I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor. This brightens the dish and enhances the vibrant colors of the shrimp and peas. For an elevated twist, consider adding a few shavings of lemon zest just before serving to add a refreshing aromatic touch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a stunning Shrimp and Spring Pea Risotto:

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup fresh or frozen spring peas
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to make a delicious and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Shrimp and Spring Pea Risotto:

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth over low heat. Keep it warm but not boiling as you start cooking the risotto.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to become slightly translucent and coated with oil.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring frequently, until the wine is mostly absorbed by the rice.

Cook the Risotto

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

Add Peas and Shrimp

Stir in the spring peas and shrimp about 5 minutes before the risotto reaches the desired creamy consistency. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and the peas are heated through.

Finish and Serve

Remove the risotto from heat and stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired. Serve garnished with parsley.

That's it! You've created a mouthwatering Shrimp and Spring Pea Risotto.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of saffron to the broth or experimenting with different seasonal vegetables depending on what's fresh.

Ingredient Customizations

Feel free to experiment with ingredients based on availability or dietary needs. If shrimp isn't your favorite, you can substitute with cooked chicken or even a mix of mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary; for mushrooms, sauté them alongside the onions, allowing them to release their moisture before adding the rice.

If you want a dairy-free version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and substitute the butter with a vegan option. Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without dairy, meaning everyone can enjoy this comforting dish, regardless of dietary preferences.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile of your Shrimp and Spring Pea Risotto, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or basil toward the end of cooking for a fragrant touch. These herbs complement the sweetness of the shrimp and peas, adding a layer of freshness that enhances the overall experience.

For a bit of spice, I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. This gives the dish a subtle heat that perfectly balances the creaminess and sweetness of the other ingredients. Alternatively, a dash of saffron can infuse a luxurious aroma and golden color, making this risotto even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this risotto in advance?

It's best to serve risotto immediately after cooking for the creamiest texture. However, you can prepare the broth and sauté your aromatics ahead of time.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for even results.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the shrimp with more vegetables or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What can I pair with this risotto?

A crisp green salad or some crusty bread would pair beautifully with this dish.