Creamy Shrimp and Tomato Risotto 🍤🍅
A rich and comforting Italian-inspired dish made with creamy Arborio rice, juicy shrimp, tomatoes, and flavorful herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the risotto:
- 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups warm chicken or vegetable broth (add more if needed)
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the shrimp
- Season shrimp with a little salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Cook shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
2. Start the risotto
- Add the remaining olive oil and butter to the pan.
- Sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in Arborio rice and toast for 1–2 minutes until the grains become slightly translucent.
3. Add liquids slowly
- Pour in white wine (if using) and stir until mostly absorbed.
- Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently.
- Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth.
- Continue cooking for about 18–20 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender.
4. Add tomato and shrimp
- Stir in tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes until combined and heated through.
- Add cooked shrimp and gently mix.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve warm with extra Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Risotto
✨ Use warm broth to help the rice cook evenly.
✨ Stir regularly to release the rice’s natural starch and create creaminess.
✨ Avoid rinsing Arborio rice—the starch is what gives risotto its signature texture.
✨ Add a splash of broth before serving if the risotto becomes too thick.
Enjoy your creamy shrimp and tomato risotto! 🍤
