Effortless Elegance: Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with Peas

Risotto, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, is often considered a dish best reserved for special occasions or evenings when you have ample time to dedicate to the stirring and simmering process. But what if I told you that you could achieve the same exquisite results, without the constant attention, in a fraction of the time? Enter the Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with Peas – a weeknight wonder that brings gourmet flavors to your table with minimal effort.

This recipe transforms the traditionally labor-intensive risotto into a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting and elegant dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, delivering perfectly cooked risotto with tender shrimp and sweet peas in under 30 minutes. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet sophisticated dish!

## Why Instant Pot Risotto is a Game-Changer

Traditionally, risotto requires constant stirring to release the starches from the Arborio rice, creating that signature creamy texture. The Instant Pot eliminates this need by cooking the rice under pressure, which helps to break down the starches and create the creamy consistency without the constant attention. Here’s why this method is a game-changer:

* **Hands-Off Cooking:** No more standing over the stove, stirring for 20-30 minutes! The Instant Pot does all the work for you.
* **Faster Cooking Time:** The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time compared to the traditional method.
* **Consistent Results:** The pressure cooking ensures consistent results every time, delivering perfectly cooked risotto with a creamy texture.
* **Minimal Cleanup:** One-pot cooking means fewer dishes to wash!

## Ingredients for Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with Peas

Before you start, gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients:

* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** Provides a base for sautéing the aromatics and adds richness to the risotto.
* **1 small onion, finely chopped:** Adds a savory depth to the flavor profile.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Enhances the savory notes and adds a pungent aroma.
* **1 cup Arborio rice:** The key ingredient for risotto, known for its high starch content.
* **1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio):** Adds acidity and complexity to the flavor.
* **4 cups chicken broth:** Provides the liquid for cooking the rice and infuses it with flavor. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the saltiness.
* **1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined:** Adds protein and a delicate seafood flavor. Choose medium or large shrimp for best results.
* **1 cup frozen peas:** Adds sweetness, color, and a pop of freshness.
* **1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese:** Adds richness, saltiness, and a nutty flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan is highly recommended.
* **2 tablespoons butter:** Adds richness and creaminess to the finished dish.
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste:** Season to perfection.
* **Optional garnishes:** Fresh parsley, lemon wedges, red pepper flakes.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with Peas:

**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**

* Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil to the pot.
* Once the oil is heated, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

**Step 2: Toast the Rice**

* Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted. This step helps to enhance the nutty flavor of the rice and prevents it from becoming mushy.

**Step 3: Deglaze the Pot**

* Pour in the white wine and stir, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. This step is important to remove any browned bits that may have stuck to the bottom, preventing a “Burn” notice from the Instant Pot.
* Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly.

**Step 4: Add Broth and Cook**

* Pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
* Cancel the “Sauté” function. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position.
* Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.

**Step 5: Natural Pressure Release**

* Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This helps to prevent the risotto from becoming too mushy. After 10 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure by carefully turning the valve to the “Venting” position.

**Step 6: Add Shrimp and Peas**

* Open the lid of the Instant Pot. Stir in the shrimp and frozen peas. The residual heat will cook the shrimp and peas. Stir until the shrimp is pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.

**Step 7: Stir in Cheese and Butter**

* Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and well combined. This will add richness and creaminess to the risotto.

**Step 8: Season and Serve**

* Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
* Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and red pepper flakes (optional).

## Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Risotto

* **Use Arborio Rice:** Arborio rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture of risotto. Do not substitute with other types of rice.
* **Don’t Skip the Toasting Step:** Toasting the rice enhances its flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
* **Use Warm Broth:** Using warm broth helps to maintain the cooking temperature and promotes even cooking.
* **Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:** The shrimp will cook quickly in the residual heat. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
* **Adjust the Liquid:** If the risotto seems too thick after cooking, add a little more broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
* **Freshly Grated Parmesan:** Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains cellulose and doesn’t melt as well.

## Variations and Additions

This recipe is a great base for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* **Vegetarian Risotto:** Omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add other vegetables such as mushrooms, asparagus, or zucchini.
* **Chicken Risotto:** Add diced cooked chicken to the risotto along with the peas.
* **Mushroom Risotto:** Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic. Use mushroom broth instead of chicken broth for a more intense mushroom flavor.
* **Lemon Risotto:** Add lemon zest and lemon juice to the risotto along with the Parmesan cheese and butter.
* **Spicy Risotto:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the risotto for a spicy kick.

## Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with Peas is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.

Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the risotto.
* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Grilled Chicken or Fish:** If you want to add more protein, serve with grilled chicken or fish.

## Make Ahead and Storage

* **Make Ahead:** While risotto is best served fresh, you can prepare the base of the risotto (without the shrimp and peas) ahead of time. Cook the rice with the onion, garlic, wine, and broth, then cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the risotto in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop, adding the shrimp, peas, Parmesan cheese, and butter as instructed in the recipe.
* **Storage:** Leftover risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g

## Recipe Card

**Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with Peas**

**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Total Time:** 30 minutes
**Servings:** 4-6

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup Arborio rice
* 1/2 cup dry white wine
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons butter
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley, lemon wedges, red pepper flakes

**Instructions:**

1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil to the pot.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted.
4. Pour in the white wine and stir, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly.
5. Pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
6. Cancel the “Sauté” function. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
7. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure by carefully turning the valve to the “Venting” position.
8. Open the lid of the Instant Pot. Stir in the shrimp and frozen peas. Stir until the shrimp is pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
9. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and well combined.
10. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and red pepper flakes (optional).

Enjoy this effortless and elegant Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with Peas! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that will impress your family and friends.