Rich, creamy risotto made with arborio rice, tender lobster, fresh lemon, and Parmesan. Takes 45 minutes of mostly stirring. Perfect for special occasions or date nights.
A luxurious blend of creamy Arborio rice and succulent lobster, this Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto transforms simple ingredients into an elegant masterpiece. The bright notes of lemon perfectly balance the rich, buttery texture, while tender pieces of lobster add a touch of indulgence to every bite.
During my culinary journey, mastering risotto became a passion project. The first time I added fresh lobster and lemon to my basic recipe, I knew I'd discovered something extraordinary.
Essential Ingredients Guide
Arborio Rice: Its high starch content creates the signature creamy texture
Fresh Lobster: Choose live lobsters or high-quality frozen tails
White Wine: Use a dry variety you'd enjoy drinking
Fresh Lemons: Both zest and juice are crucial for brightness
Quality Stock: Homemade seafood stock adds depth of flavor
European Butter: Higher fat content creates silky finish
Creating Risotto Magic
Begin With Broth
Keep stock warm throughout cooking for proper absorption.
Toast The Rice
Coat each grain with butter until slightly translucent.
Master The Method
Add stock gradually, stirring until absorbed between additions.
Incorporate Lobster
Fold in tender meat at the perfect moment.
Finish With Finesse
Add final butter and lemon for the perfect shine.
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In my restaurant days, I learned that the key to perfect risotto lies in timing and attention. As my mentor would say, 'Risotto waits for no one - and no one should wait for risotto.'
Elegant Accompaniments
Serve alongside grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon oil, or a simple arugula salad with shaved parmesan. A glass of crisp Chablis complements the dish beautifully.
Creative Variations
Transform this dish by using different seafood like scallops or shrimp, adding fresh herbs like tarragon or chives, or incorporating roasted cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness.
Storage Success
Store risotto in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat gently with a splash of warm stock, stirring to restore the creamy texture.
Through years of perfecting this recipe, I've found that patience and quality ingredients are the keys to success. This risotto isn't just a meal - it's an experience that transforms your dining table into a fine dining destination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
→ Why do I need to stir risotto constantly?
Stirring releases the rice's starch, creating that signature creamy texture. It also ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
→ Can I use different seafood?
Yes! Shrimp or scallops work great as alternatives to lobster. Just adjust cooking time based on the seafood you choose.
→ What's the best rice for risotto?
Arborio rice is traditional and best - its high starch content creates the creamy texture risotto is known for.
→ Can I make this ahead?
Risotto is best served fresh. If needed, cook the rice portion ahead and reheat with extra broth, adding lobster at the last minute.
→ Why use warm broth?
Cold broth slows cooking and can make the rice cook unevenly. Keeping it warm helps maintain a steady cooking temperature.
Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto
Creamy Italian risotto with tender lobster pieces, brightened with lemon and enriched with butter and Parmesan. A luxurious dinner in 45 minutes.
011 cup Arborio rice, the star of any good risotto
021 tablespoon olive oil
032 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
041 small shallot, finely diced
052 cloves garlic, minced
064 cups seafood or chicken broth, kept warm
→ Finishing Touches
071/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
081 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
091 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
108 ounces cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
11Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
12Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 01
Heat your olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in your diced shallot and cook until it's soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and let it cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 02
Add your Arborio rice to the pan and stir it continuously for 1-2 minutes. This coating and toasting step is crucial for developing that perfect risotto texture.
Step 03
Now comes the heart of risotto-making: Add warm broth about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is absorbed before adding more. This will take around 18-20 minutes - your rice should be creamy but still have a slight bite.
Step 04
Turn off the heat and stir in your remaining butter, Parmesan, lemon juice, and zest. Keep stirring until everything's melted and creamy. Then gently fold in your lobster meat and season with salt and pepper.
Step 05
Spoon your risotto into warm bowls and top with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of lemon zest if you're feeling fancy.
Notes
Constant stirring helps create the creamy texture risotto is famous for
Always use warm broth - cold liquid can affect the cooking process
You can substitute shrimp or scallops for a more budget-friendly option
Tools You'll Need
Large saucepan or deep skillet
Wooden spoon or risotto spoon
Ladle for broth
Small pot for keeping broth warm
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.