Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto

Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto is a luxurious and creamy seafood dish that perfectly balances the richness of Parmesan and butter with the bright acidity of fresh lemon. This elegant risotto features tender Arborio rice slowly simmered with wine and broth, then finished with succulent lobster and fresh parsley.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant and restaurant-worthy, ideal for special occasions or impressing guests

• The creamy risotto base is perfectly complemented by buttery lobster and lemon zest

• A one-pan meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly straightforward to prepare

• Customizable with different seafood or citrus flavors

• Combines richness, freshness, and depth of flavor in every bite

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup Arborio rice

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until translucent.

2. Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, toasting lightly.

3. Add the white wine and stir constantly until mostly absorbed.

4. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Let each addition absorb before adding the next, continuing for 20–25 minutes until rice is creamy and tender.

5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, butter, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Gently fold in the lobster meat and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.

7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Variations

• Seafood swap: Substitute shrimp, scallops, or crab if lobster isn’t available.

• Herb upgrade: Use fresh basil or tarragon for a different aromatic profile.

• Citrus alternative: Use orange or lime zest for a unique twist.

• Cheese addition: Add a touch of mascarpone or goat cheese for extra creaminess.

• Wine-free version: Skip the wine and add a splash of lemon juice or broth instead.

storage/reheating

• Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

• Freezing is not recommended as the texture of risotto may become grainy when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster meat?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before adding to the risotto.

What kind of wine works best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay enhances the risotto’s flavor.

Can I make this risotto ahead of time?

Risotto is best served fresh, but you can partially cook it, stop halfway, then finish just before serving.

Do I need to stir the whole time?

Frequent stirring helps release the rice’s starch for creaminess, but occasional stirring will suffice if monitored closely.

Can I substitute Arborio rice?

Arborio is preferred for its starch content, but carnaroli or vialone nano can also be used.

How do I keep the lobster from overcooking?

Add lobster at the very end and heat only briefly to preserve tenderness.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, peas, asparagus, or spinach make excellent additions without overpowering the delicate lobster flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the broth and Parmesan used are gluten-free certified.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the Parmesan and butter with dairy-free alternatives and use olive oil as needed.

What should I serve with lobster risotto?

A light side salad or steamed green vegetables complement the richness of the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto is a stunningly delicious dish that blends rich creaminess with the fresh zest of lemon and the delicacy of lobster. Whether for a dinner party or a luxurious weeknight treat, this risotto delivers sophistication without complexity. Serve immediately and savor every bite of this timeless comfort food with a gourmet twist.

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