Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto Recipe
Rich and creamy risotto makes a meal feel special. Add tender lobster and a bright touch of lemon butter, and suddenly, dinner becomes unforgettable. This lemon butter lobster risotto blends elegance and comfort in a single bowl. It is luxurious without being heavy, and every bite is loaded with flavor.
The heart of this dish is its silky risotto base. Arborio rice slowly absorbs warm broth, releasing starch and building a naturally creamy texture. When combined with juicy lobster and a hint of lemon, the result is something you would expect at a fine restaurant, yet it is completely doable at home.
Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe fits the moment. With patience and a few simple steps, you can bring restaurant-quality risotto to your own kitchen. It is perfect for a romantic dinner, a small gathering, or anytime you want a dish that feels like a celebration.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a table of the ingredients used in this recipe along with their estimated calorie content per portion.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Arborio rice | 1 cup | 210 |
| Cooked lobster meat | 8 ounces | 210 |
| Chicken or seafood broth | 4 cups | 40 |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons | 300 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Shallots (finely chopped) | 2 small | 30 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | 8 |
| Lemon zest | 1 teaspoon | 2 |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup | 215 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | 2 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Estimated Total Calories: ~1145
(Serves 3 to 4 people; ~285–380 per serving)
Read more: Italian Easter Cookies Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by warming your broth in a saucepan over low heat. Keep it hot but not boiling. This step helps the rice cook evenly and absorb flavor better.
In a large skillet or wide pan, heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Arborio rice to the pan. Stir well to coat each grain with the butter and oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes until the edges look slightly translucent.
Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time. Stir frequently and allow each addition of broth to absorb before adding the next. This slow process helps the rice release starch, making the risotto creamy. Continue this method for about 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender but still slightly firm in the center.
Once the rice is cooked and creamy, gently stir in the lobster meat. Let it heat through for about 2 minutes.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining butter. Stir well to combine. Finish by folding in the Parmesan cheese and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove the pan from heat and let the risotto rest for 2 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before plating.
Read more: Homemade Easter Candy Recipe
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Lobster gives this dish its elegance, but it can be swapped or paired with other seafood. Shrimp, scallops, or even crab work beautifully with the creamy risotto and lemon flavor.
For an extra boost of flavor, consider using seafood stock instead of chicken broth. You can also stir in a splash of white wine during the first few minutes of cooking for added depth.
If you want a richer risotto, add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone at the end. For extra brightness, stir in a bit more lemon zest or top with microgreens just before serving.
Want to go dairy-free? Use a plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan. Nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternatives can offer a similar taste without the dairy.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
This dish provides a satisfying balance of protein and carbs while keeping the fat content moderate. The use of lemon adds a refreshing note and helps with digestion.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this risotto as a main dish with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. A simple arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs well and adds contrast to the rich texture.
For a complete dinner, start with a light appetizer like shrimp cocktail or bruschetta. A warm crusty bread on the side helps soak up any remaining risotto and gives a comforting finish.
You can also serve it in smaller portions as a starter course for a fancy dinner. Just spoon it into ramekins and top each one with a tiny lobster claw or lemon wedge for presentation.
Read more: Homemade Easter Cake Recipe
Conclusion
Making risotto from scratch may take some attention, but the result is always worth it. The combination of creamy rice, buttery lobster, and bright lemon creates a dish that feels both cozy and luxurious. It is the kind of meal that can turn an ordinary evening into something memorable.
Once you master this base recipe, you will find it easy to tweak and make it your own. Whether you are cooking for guests or just enjoying a quiet night in, lemon butter lobster risotto is a dish that never disappoints.