Smoked Salmon and Lemon Risotto (Creamy & Easy Recipe)

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Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto: Simple Elegance in Every Bite

Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto is the definition of effortless elegance. Imagine creamy, velvety rice infused with bright lemon and dotted with tender pieces of smoked salmon that melt in your mouth. The result is a comforting yet refined dish that feels special without being complicated. Best of all, it’s much easier to prepare than it looks.

This is the kind of meal that feels cozy enough for a quiet evening at home, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

What Is Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto?

Is it Italian? Scandinavian? Maybe a little of both—but labels don’t really matter here. This dish is a celebration of two ingredients that shine together: smoky salmon and fresh lemon. When combined with creamy risotto rice, they create a balanced, flavorful dish that feels both comforting and fresh.

It’s the type of recipe that invites people to slow down, gather around the table, and enjoy good food and conversation. And really, that’s what great cooking is all about.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto

This isn’t your typical risotto. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and flavors that work together effortlessly.

Creamy and comforting: Perfectly cooked rice with a rich, silky texture
Bright and fresh: Lemon juice cuts through the richness and lifts the dish
Savory and smoky: Smoked salmon adds depth without overpowering
Budget-friendly: A small amount of smoked salmon goes a long way
Easy to prepare: Despite its elegant appearance, it comes together in under an hour
Great for any occasion: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests

Once you try it, this risotto is sure to earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.

How to Make Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto

Quick Overview

This recipe focuses on simple techniques and big flavor. With minimal prep and a bit of gentle stirring, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in about 45 minutes. Prep time takes roughly 15 minutes, with around 30 minutes of cooking.

Key Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup Arborio rice
1/2 cup dry white wine
4 cups warm vegetable broth
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
4 oz smoked salmon, flaked
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, allowing the grains to lightly toast.
Pour in the white wine and stir until it has fully absorbed.
Add one cup of warm vegetable broth, stirring continuously until absorbed. Continue adding broth one cup at a time, stirring frequently, until the rice is creamy and tender but still slightly firm, about 20 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, dill, chives, lemon juice, and smoked salmon.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

What to Serve With Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto

This risotto is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs well with lighter sides:

Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness
Roasted asparagus or green beans for an earthy contrast
Crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Sparkling water with lemon to refresh the palate

Top Tips for Perfect Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto

Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor
Stir regularly to develop a creamy texture
Add broth gradually—this is key to proper risotto
Keep the rice slightly al dente, not mushy
Adjust seasoning at the end for balance
Fresh herbs provide the brightest flavor, but dried herbs can work if needed

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm gently over low heat, stirring until creamy again. Risotto can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

With its comforting texture and vibrant flavors, Smoked Salmon & Lemon Risotto is a dish that feels both luxurious and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s a recipe that delivers warmth, flavor, and elegance in every bite. 🍋🐟🍚