Creamy Seafood Risotto with Microgreens

Power meets elegance in this Elevated Ocean Bowl –Creamy Seafood Risotto with Microgreens. Tender calamari, shrimp, and grilled octopus rest over creamy saffron-infused risotto—finished with a burst of microgreens for a crisp, peppery bite. High in lean protein and big on flavor, it’s the kind of clean eating that doesn’t skip the luxury.

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 1/2 cup Arborio rice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cups seafood stock (kept warm)
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads (optional but elevates flavor)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 6–8 pcs shrimp, deveined
• 6–8 pcs squid rings
• 1/2 cup grilled octopus, sliced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional for a richer finish)
• 1/2 cup microgreens (radish, arugula, alfalfa mix)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Risotto Base:
   In a sauté pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shallots, season with a pinch of salt, and sweat until translucent—not browned.
2. Add Rice:
   Toss in Arborio rice. Stir continuously for 2 minutes until edges turn translucent. This is about toasting—build that foundation.
3. Saffron & Stock:
   Bloom saffron in a ladle of warm seafood stock. Pour it into the rice, stirring slowly. Then, continue ladling in the stock—one scoop at a time—letting each absorb before adding the next. Patience here brings out the creaminess. Stir often.
4. Grill the Seafood:
   Meanwhile, heat a grill pan. Brush shrimp, squid rings, and octopus with olive oil. Season lightly. Grill quickly over high heat—just until they kiss the heat and curl slightly. Don’t overdo it. Set aside.
5. Finish the Risotto:
   After 15–18 minutes, when the rice is al dente and luxuriously creamy, fold in lemon zest and Parmesan (if using). Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
6. Plate It Like You Mean It:
   Spoon risotto onto warm plates. Pile the grilled seafood gently on top. Crown with a generous tuft of fresh microgreens for that crisp, peppery finish.

💡 Chef’s Tip:

Drizzle a touch of lemon-infused olive oil on top for a sharp, citrusy edge. Perfect post-workout recovery meal or an elegant clean dinner.