Easy Shrimp Risotto with Mediterranean Flavors for the Holidays

Take a flavorful trip to the Mediterranean this holiday season with a dish that’s as elegant as it is easy to make. This recipe is a perfect idea for Christmas dinner

Our easy Shrimp Risotto, infused with zesty lemon and a splash of apple cider, is the perfect centerpiece for your festive table. Perfect as a starter or a main course, this Mediterranean-inspired risotto is your answer to creating unforgettable moments with loved ones during the holiday season.

You will love this holiday recipe idea as it is surprisingly easy to make and it uses simple ingredients for bold flavors and creamy texture—ideal for a stress-free yet memorable meal.

Difficulty

Easy

Cooking time

30mins

Ingredients

Desired Servings:

400 gr Carnaroli rice (if not available, you can use Arborio rice)
450 gr Cooked frozen shrimps
1 Lemon
1 Clove garlic
1 Shallot
1 Cube vegetable stock
1000 ml hot water
120 ml Apple cider vinegar
40 gr Butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chives for garnish

Preparation

Chop the shallot and crush the garlic
Melt half of the butter in a pan, sauté the shallots and garlic for 1 to 2 minutes
Add the rice and toast for 2 minutes, then add the cider vinegar, stir and let it evaporate
Add the lemon juice and stir
Add water to cover the rice and dissolve the vegetable bouillon cube
Cook over medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring and adding water occasionally to prevent the rice from drying outIn the meantime remove the shrimp tails (leave some with tails and sauté separately for the final garnish)
Once the rice is ready, add the shrimps and lemon zest, stir and leave on the heat for 5 more minutes
Turn off the heat, add the rest of the butter and salt and pepper to taste and stir
Serve and garnish the dish with the sautéed shrimp and chopped chives (fresh for a more elegant appearance, or dried for more practicality)

Note: You can swap the apple cider vinegar for white wine for a more classic flavor, but I personally feel that apple cider vinegar elevates the flavor of this recipe. The quantities in this recipe are for a main course, so if you are making it as a starter, halve the quantities.

Enhance your risotto experience with a perfectly paired wine: For white wines, try an Italian Vermentino or a French Sancerre. Their crisp and citrusy notes will complement the lemony brightness of the dish.

Let this Shrimp Risotto recipe be more than just a festive meal—it’s your go-to Mediterranean Christmas dinner idea. Whether you’re toasting to new memories or cherishing old traditions, this dish adds a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your winter festivities. From its creamy texture to its bold flavors, it’s a meal made to be shared, enjoyed, and remembered. Buon Natale and happy cooking!