Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto – A Creamy, Zesty Gourmet Meal
If you’re searching for a dish that feels indulgent but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner, this Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto is the answer. Creamy arborio rice infused with zesty lemon and rich smoked salmon creates an elegant meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes. It’s the perfect balance of freshness and comfort, ideal for seafood lovers and risotto fans alike.
Table of Contents
🧾 Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/3 cup dry white wine (optional but adds flavor)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (kept warm)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 100g (about 3.5 oz) smoked salmon, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp mascarpone or cream cheese for extra creaminess
👨🍳 How to Make Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto
- Warm the broth in a separate pot over low heat and keep it simmering.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for 1–2 minutes until edges look translucent.
- Pour in the white wine and stir until absorbed.
- Begin adding broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. This process takes about 18–20 minutes.
- When the rice is creamy and tender, stir in lemon juice, zest, Parmesan, and mascarpone (if using).
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the smoked salmon and fresh herbs.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with extra lemon zest and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
💡 Expert Tips for the Perfect Risotto
- Use warm broth to maintain an even cooking temperature
- Stir constantly to release the rice’s natural starch for creaminess
- Don’t overcook the salmon—add it at the very end to preserve its texture
- Add peas, asparagus, or spinach for extra greens
- Swap dill with tarragon or chives for a different flavor profile
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine
- Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a fine dining feel
- Serve as a main course or as a side to grilled seafood or chicken
❄️ Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture
- Not ideal for freezing, but great as a next-day lunch
✅ Final Thoughts
This Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto combines the silky richness of a classic Italian risotto with the vibrant freshness of lemon and the luxurious flavor of smoked salmon. It’s a dish that feels special without being complicated—perfect for a romantic dinner, a family treat, or an impressive meal for guests. Try it once, and it’ll become a favorite in your weekly rotation.
