Elegant Lobster Risotto for Two

Name: Elegant Lobster Risotto for Two
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken or seafood broth, warmed; 1/2 cup dry white wine; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish; 1 large lobster tail, cooked and chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I love making Elegant Lobster Risotto for Two as a special treat for date nights or anniversaries. This dish combines rich, creamy risotto with the luxury of fresh lobster, creating an indulgent meal that’s surprisingly approachable. The secret lies in slowly adding the broth and mastering the perfect al dente texture. It's a dish that really impresses but doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. Join me in this delightful cooking adventure that will make your evening unforgettable.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:02:41.007Z

When I first tried making lobster risotto, I was mesmerized by how the flavors blended beautifully together. The fresh lobster adds a touch of sophistication that elevates this dish. I learned that to achieve the perfect creaminess, you need to incorporate the broth gradually, allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors. This method not only enhances the taste but also creates a wonderful texture.

One memorable evening, I paired this risotto with a crisp white wine, which complemented the lobster perfectly. The aroma of garlic and fresh herbs filled my kitchen, making it an experience we'll cherish forever. The key is to stir consistently and enjoy the process; it’s not just about the dish but the moments shared as you cook.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent lobster adds a touch of luxury
Creamy risotto that sings with flavor
Perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion

      

The Importance of Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice is crucial for achieving the creamy texture of risotto. This short-grain rice has a high starch content, which is released during the cooking process, giving risotto its signature richness. As the rice absorbs the broth, you'll notice it becomes plump and slightly translucent. Be careful not to rush this stage; the toastiness developed during the initial two-minute cooking will elevate the overall flavor of the dish.

If you cannot find Arborio rice, you can substitute it with Carnaroli or Vialone Nano, both of which are excellent alternatives that will produce similar creamy results. However, conventional long-grain rice should be avoided, as it lacks the same starch content required for this iconic Italian dish.

Perfecting the Risotto Technique

The technique of gradually adding broth is key to achieving an ideal risotto consistency. Aim to add the broth one ladleful at a time, allowing the rice to fully absorb each addition before adding more. This process not only creates a creamy texture but also ensures the rice cooks evenly. Stirring frequently will help release the starch, which is essential for that luxurious mouthfeel.

Another essential tip is to keep the broth warm on a separate burner. This prevents the cooking process from stalling when you add cold liquid. You’ll know your risotto is ready when the rice is al dente—firm to the bite but not hard—and the mixture is glossy and smooth, taking about 18-20 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or seafood broth, warmed
1/2 cup dry white wine
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

For the Lobster

1 large lobster tail, cooked and chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Prepare the Lobster

In a bowl, mix the chopped lobster with lemon juice and paprika. Set aside.

Cook the Onion and Garlic

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the Arborio Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast for 2 minutes until slightly translucent.

Incorporate the Wine

Pour in the white wine, stirring continuously until absorbed. This will enhance the flavor of the risotto.

Add the Broth Gradually

Begin adding the warm broth one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is fully absorbed before adding more. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.

Finish with Cheese and Lobster

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter, and lobster mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, ensuring each plate is filled with delicious flavors.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of heavy cream before serving. Ensure your broth is hot before adding it to the risotto to maintain a steady cooking temperature.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, store any uneaten risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. When reheating, add a small amount of broth or water to help revive the creaminess. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring continuously to ensure even warming without breaking the rice grain further.

Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can lead to uneven heating and a dry texture. If you want to prepare the dish ahead of time, consider making the risotto base without the lobster and cheese, then add these ingredients just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve the lobster risotto in shallow bowls and drizzle with a bit of additional olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This not only looks appealing but also enhances the flavors of the dish. You might consider pairing the risotto with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted asparagus to balance the rich flavors and add freshness.

If you want to showcase the luxurious nature of this dish, serve it with a glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. These wines complement the creaminess of the risotto and the sweetness of the lobster, elevating your dining experience further. Consider adding a few lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their risotto; it adds a bright citrus note that enhances the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before chopping and adding to the risotto.

→ What can I substitute for Arborio rice?

You can use Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice, which also create a creamy texture.

→ Is it necessary to use wine?

While wine adds depth, you can replace it using more broth if you prefer an alcohol-free version.

→ How do I know when the risotto is done?

The risotto should be creamy and the rice should be al dente; taste it to check for doneness.