Risotto with Scallops and Citrus: A Flavorful Journey to Elegance
If youโre craving a sophisticated yet simple dish that combines the richness of seafood with the fresh zest of citrus fruits, this Risotto with Scallops and Citrus is the perfect choice for you. The sweetness of the scallops, paired with the tangy orange, lemon, and lime zest, creates a delightful symphony of flavors. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its exquisite taste and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carnaroli rice | 320g |
| Scallops | 240g |
| Orange juice | 1 |
| Lemon zest | 1 |
| Lime zest | 1 |
| Butter | 40g |
| Shallot | 1 |
| Prosecco | 50g |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable broth | 1 liter |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth and Ingredients
Begin by heating the vegetable broth in a pot over low heat, keeping it warm throughout the cooking process. This will allow you to add it gradually to the risotto as needed, helping the rice absorb all the flavors evenly.
While the broth is heating, prepare the ingredients for the risotto. Start by finely chopping the shallot. Then, separate the scallop meat from the coral (the orange roe part). Set both the scallop meat and coral aside for later use.
Step 2: Sautรฉ the Shallot and Coral
In a large saucepan, melt a small amount of butter over low heat. Add the finely chopped shallot to the pan and sautรฉ until it becomes translucent and fragrant. After 2-3 minutes, add the coral to the pan, breaking it up into small pieces. Let the coral cook with the shallot, stirring occasionally, for another 2-3 minutes. If the mixture seems to be drying out, add a small splash of the warm broth to keep everything moist.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Next, add the Carnaroli rice to the pan. Raise the heat slightly to medium and toast the rice for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to ensure that it doesnโt stick to the pan. This step helps to intensify the flavor of the rice and prepares it for absorbing the broth.
Step 4: Add Prosecco and Begin Cooking the Risotto
Once the rice is toasted, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then pour in the Prosecco. Stir well and allow the alcohol to evaporate for about 1-2 minutes, leaving behind a light and refreshing flavor that will complement the richness of the scallops.
Now, begin adding the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time. Stir frequently and let the rice absorb the broth before adding more. Continue cooking the risotto for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is al dente and creamy.
Step 5: Prepare the Scallops
While the risotto is cooking, take care of the scallops. First, squeeze the juice of one fresh orange into a bowl. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the scallops, season with salt, and then grate the zest of the lemon over the top. Gently mix the ingredients to coat the scallops evenly with the citrus flavors.
Step 6: Sear the Scallops
Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned scallops to the pan and sear them for 1 minute on each side. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the scallops cook. After 1 minute, flip the scallops to cook the other side for the same amount of time. Finally, pour the orange juice over the scallops, allowing it to evaporate slightly and infuse the scallops with its bright flavor.
Step 7: Finish the Risotto
Once the risotto is cooked to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Add the remaining butter and stir gently until the risotto becomes silky and smooth. To finish, grate the lime zest over the top of the risotto for a burst of fresh, citrusy aroma that ties everything together.
Step 8: Plate and Serve
Spoon the creamy risotto onto individual plates and carefully place the seared scallops on top. Garnish with additional citrus zest if desired. The vibrant colors of the dish will make it a visually stunning centerpiece for your table.
Risotto with Scallops and Citrus is an elegant dish that combines the delicate flavors of scallops with the refreshing zing of citrus fruits. The buttery, creamy risotto is the perfect vehicle for these exquisite flavors, and the entire dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a special weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. The combination of prosecco, fresh citrus, and perfectly seared scallops will transport you to a coastal Italian bistro with every bite.
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the citrus notes and enhance the overall dining experience. Bon appรฉtit!
