Italian Seafood Risotto with Mussels and Clams

Italian Seafood Risotto with Mussels and Clams is a classic dish that showcases the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. This creamy, comforting dish combines tender rice with fresh seafood, making it a favorite for special occasions and family dinners alike.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 1 pound mussels, cleaned
• 1 pound clams, cleaned
• 4 cups seafood broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Cooking Instructions

Start by heating the seafood broth in a saucepan and keep it warm. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted. Pour in the white wine and stir until it is mostly absorbed.

Begin adding the warm seafood broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more broth. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a separate pan, steam the mussels and clams until they open, about 5-7 minutes. Discard any that do not open. Add the cooked seafood to the risotto during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir in the butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Once done, sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your authentic Italian seafood risotto!