What pairs well with risotto?

Risotto is a rich and creamy dish that works well as a main course or a side. Its smooth texture and mild flavor make it easy to pair with many foods. Knowing what pairs well with risotto helps you build a balanced meal that feels complete without being heavy.

A recipe guide titled "What Pairs With Risotto?" features ingredients and photos for hoisin glazed scallops, garlic shrimp, and sheet pan salmon with broccoli.

Table of Contents

What pairs well with risotto?

Proteins are a common choice to serve with risotto. Chicken, shrimp, scallops, or salmon all work well because they add structure and contrast to the soft rice. Simple seasoning is best so the protein does not overpower the risotto. Grilled or pan seared meats are a good match because they add a slight crisp edge. Beef and pork can also work, especially when prepared with lighter sauces.

Vegetables and Salads

Vegetables pair naturally with risotto and help balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini add texture and depth. Green vegetables are especially helpful because they bring freshness to the plate. A simple sauté with olive oil and salt is often enough.

Salads are another strong pairing. A crisp salad with leafy greens, cucumbers, or tomatoes helps cut through the creaminess. A light dressing keeps the focus on the risotto while still adding contrast. This is a good option when risotto is served as the main dish.

Wine

Wine pairings depend on the risotto flavor. White risottos pair well with dry white wines, while mushroom or meat based risottos can handle lighter red wines. Sparkling water or a citrus based drink also works well.

What pairs well with risotto?

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Cooked shrimp with sliced red peppers, chopped peanuts, and green onions in a cast iron skillet, with chopsticks picking up a shrimp.

Garlic Shrimp

Quick and flavorful garlic shrimp recipe with buttery garlic sauce is perfect for pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

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Hoisin Glazed Sea Scallops

The strong, saturated flavors of hoisin pairs nicely with seared sea scallops in this Hoisin Glazed Sea Scallops recipe.

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Seared Scallops

Seared Scallops are paired with an easy-to-make butter sauce, this is a restaurant-quality scallop dinner for a portion of the price!

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Tangy Teriyaki Scallops seared to perfection, served on a bed of mixed diced vegetables and mango, garnished with lime slices and fresh greens, with a glass of water and utensils in the background.

Tangy Teriyaki Scallops with Pineapple Mango Relish

Delicate scallops are paired with a rich teriyaki sauce and in-season fruit for this flavorful dinner recipe.

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Stovetop Grilled Chicken Caprese features tender chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella, juicy sliced tomatoes, and fragrant chopped basil, all elegantly presented in a black skillet.

Stovetop Grilled Chicken Caprese | Keto & High Protein

Stovetop Grilled Chicken Caprese combines the traditional flavors of a caprese salad for an easy and flavorful summer dinner. *Keto note: Use balsamic vinegar instead of balsamic reduction to reduce carbs even more. See the above narrative for more substitutions.

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Two baked salmon fillets topped with lemon slices, surrounded by roasted broccoli on a foil-lined baking sheet.

Conclusion

When pairing foods with risotto, think about balance. Add items that bring texture, freshness, or a clean finish. This approach keeps the meal satisfying and enjoyable from start to finish.