Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

This Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a delightful dish that combines creamy arborio rice with fresh ingredients like lemon and asparagus. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The use of the Instant Pot means you can achieve that rich, restaurant-quality risotto in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish will surely stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With the Instant Pot, you can have dinner on the table in just 25 minutes.
• Creamy Texture: The arborio rice creates a luscious, creamy consistency that’s hard to resist.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and asparagus add brightness and crunch, enhancing each bite.
• Versatility: Customize your risotto by adding chicken, mushrooms, or other vegetables based on your preference.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making the Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up cooking time while locking in flavors and moisture.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s non-stick surface.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

This Easy, Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is made with lemon, asparagus, and Parmesan and is a quick pressure cooker recipe perfect for weeknight meals. This cheesy, creamy dish uses arborio rice and you can mix up the ingredients and add chicken, mushrooms, peas, or whatever you prefer!

Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup diced onions (I used white onions)
– 3 garlic cloves (minced)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
– 1/2 cup dry white grape juice (I recommend white grape juice or white grape juice.)
– 3 1/2 cups broth (Seafood, chicken, or vegetable broth.)
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan reggiano cheese
– 1 pound raw shrimp (Peeled and deveined)
– Old Bay Seasoning (See notes for how to make your own seasoning.)
– salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach
– 7 oz asparagus (Chopped into small pieces. See notes.)
– 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (Optional for flavor.)

How to Make Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Turn the Instant Pot on to the sauté function. Add the olive oil to the pot along with the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Butter and Rice

Add the unsalted butter to the pot and allow it to melt completely. Next, add the arborio rice. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until every grain of rice is coated in butter.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the white grape juice followed by the broth. Stir thoroughly until all the rice is well-coated with liquid.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Securely place the lid on top of your Instant Pot and seal it. Manually adjust the timer to Manual > High-Pressure Cooking > 8 minutes.

Step 5: Season Shrimp

While your risotto cooks, season your peeled shrimp with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Quick Release Steam

Once cooking completes, perform a quick release of steam from your Instant Pot.

Step 7: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Switch back to sauté mode on your Instant Pot. Add the seasoned shrimp along with parmesan reggiano cheese, fresh spinach, and chopped asparagus. Stir gently to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.

Step 8: Finish Cooking

Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until shrimp turns pink and translucent. Ensure that spinach wilts down while asparagus becomes tender.

Step 9: Final Touches

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over everything before serving. Taste repeatedly during this step; add more salt, pepper, or Old Bay as needed for flavor adjustments.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Allow cooling before serving warm as a delightful main course!

How to Serve Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Serving your Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this creamy dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the risotto.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a nice contrast to the creamy texture.

Add Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilling these vegetables adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the risotto.
• Asparagus Bundles: Simply grill asparagus spears lightly seasoned for a fresh crunch alongside your dish.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor enhances the richness of the risotto, making it a comforting choice.
• Baguette Slices: Crisp baguette slices offer a perfect vehicle for soaking up the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Mastering your Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto involves a few simple techniques. Here are some tips to ensure perfect results every time.

• Use Arborio Rice: This short-grain rice is essential for achieving that creamy texture characteristic of risotto.
• Sauté Ingredients First: Sautéing onions and garlic enhances their flavors, providing a solid base for your dish.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Allowing enough time for pressure cooking ensures that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
• Stir Frequently at the End: Stirring in cheese, shrimp, and vegetables helps combine everything smoothly, creating a cohesive dish.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference.
• Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Adding fresh spinach or herbs at the end keeps flavors bright and vibrant.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast: Seasoned and grilled chicken adds protein and complements the risotto’s creaminess perfectly.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor provides an excellent balance against the rich taste of risotto.
3. Steamed Broccoli: This classic side is not only healthy but also adds color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the warm risotto.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes makes for a nutritious pairing.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs complements the shrimp risotto beautifully while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Bold phrase: Not Using Arborio Rice
  Using regular rice can lead to a different texture. Always opt for arborio rice, as it’s key for that creamy consistency.
• Bold phrase: Overcooking the Shrimp
  Shrimp cooks quickly, so adding it too early can result in rubbery seafood. Add shrimp toward the end of cooking for optimal tenderness.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the Sauté Step
  Neglecting to sauté the onions and garlic first can lead to dull flavors. Always start by sautéing to enhance the overall taste.
• Bold phrase: Incorrect Liquid Ratios
  Too much or too little broth can ruin your risotto. Stick closely to the recommended liquid measurements for best results.
• Bold phrase: Forgetting Seasoning
  Failing to season properly can result in bland risotto. Use salt, pepper, and spices like Old Bay generously throughout the cooking process.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover risotto in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

• Place cooled risotto in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto

• Bold phrase: Oven
  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place risotto in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Bold phrase: Microwave
  Transfer a serving into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until fully heated.
• Bold phrase: Stovetop
  Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of broth or water. Stir in the risotto and cook until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a creamy rice dish cooked quickly using an Instant Pot. It’s packed with flavor from lemon, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

Absolutely! You can mix in ingredients like chicken, mushrooms, or peas based on your preferences. The recipe is versatile and allows for many variations.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto?

This dish takes about 25 minutes total—10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time—making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Is there a vegetarian option for Instant Pot Risotto?

Yes! Simply substitute shrimp with vegetables like mushrooms or additional asparagus and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion

This Easy Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto is a delightful dish that combines creamy texture with vibrant flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how quick and satisfying it is!

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