Description

Creamy, savory, and filled with springtime flavors, this Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto is a comforting yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With tender shrimp, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked Arborio rice in a rich Parmesan-laced broth, every bite is smooth, flavorful, and satisfying.

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Ingredients

For the Risotto Base:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Arborio rice
½ cup white cooking broth (or use a splash of lemon broth)
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (kept warm in a saucepan)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Shrimp & Asparagus:
1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest and juice of ½ lemon

To Finish:
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter
Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat
Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft
Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant

Step 2: Toast the Rice
Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and butter
Cook for 1–2 minutes until rice turns slightly translucent at the edges

Step 3: Deglaze and Stir In Broth
Pour in white cooking broth and stir until absorbed
Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly
Allow each addition to absorb before adding more
Continue for 20–25 minutes until rice is tender and creamy

Step 4: Cook Asparagus and Shrimp
While risotto cooks, heat olive oil in a separate pan
Sauté asparagus for 2–3 minutes until tender but crisp
Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink
Stir in lemon zest and juice, then remove from heat

Step 5: Finish the Risotto
When the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in Parmesan and butter
Gently fold in cooked shrimp and asparagus
Season with salt and pepper to taste

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spoon risotto into bowls and top with fresh parsley or basil
Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side

Notes

Use warm broth – Keeps cooking consistent and creamy
Stir constantly – Releases the rice’s starches for a silky finish
Add shrimp at the end – Prevents overcooking and keeps them tender
Taste as you go – Adjust salt, lemon, and Parmesan to your liking

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired