If you're searching for a dish that effortlessly combines elegance and comfort, look no further. Our Lemon Risotto Recipe with Parmesan & White Wine offers a refreshing variation on a classic Italian favorite. This creamy risotto, with the bright zest of fresh lemons and the rich depth of white wine, is a perfect choice for special family dinners.

Lemon risotto is a classic Italian dish that blends the creamy texture of Arborio rice with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. Originating from Northern Italy, risotto is traditionally served as a primo (first course) but can easily be a side dish or the star of any meal. The addition of Parmesan cheese and white wine makes this dish both comforting and elegant.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Bright and Flavorful: The lemon juice and zest provides freshness.
- Creamy Texture: Thanks to the Arborio rice and Parmesan cheese.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
If you like this side dish recipe, you may also love our Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil or Asparagus Risotto.
Jump to:
Ingredients
- Arborio Rice: The essential rice for making creamy risotto.
- Onion: Adds a sweet and savory base to the dish.
- Chicken Stock: Enhances the flavor and helps achieve the perfect consistency.
- White Wine: Adds depth and richness to the risotto.
- Lemon: Both juice and zest are used for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for maximum creaminess.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and smoothness.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Garlic: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Instructions
How to Make Creamy Lemon Risotto with Parmesan & White Wine
STEP ONE: Prepare the Ingredients
Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Juice the lemon and zest it for garnish. Keep the chicken stock warm in a saucepan over low heat.
STEP TWO: Cook the Onion and Garlic
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
STEP THREE: Toast the Rice
Add the Arborio rice to the pot, stirring to coat the grains with the oil and butter. Cook for about 2 minutes until the edges of the rice become translucent.
STEP FOUR: Add Wine and Stock
Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until the wine is fully absorbed by the rice. Begin adding the warm chicken stock one ladle at a time, along with a splash of lemon juice, stirring frequently.
Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked through but still al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
STEP FIVE: Finish the Risotto
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with lemon zest and optionally, fresh herbs. Drizzle with high-quality olive oil before serving.
What Can I Substitute in this Recipe?
- Vegetable Broth: Substitute for chicken stock to make it vegetarian.
- White Wine: Use more chicken stock if you prefer to omit alcohol.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
How Can I Customize this Recipe?
- Diet: Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
- Flavor: Add a pinch of saffron for a luxurious touch.
- Kid-Friendly: Mix in peas or small pieces of chicken for added protein.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Microplane or zester
- Saucepan for warming stock
How Should I Store and Reheat this Recipe?
Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, allow the risotto to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
👩🍳 Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and more meal prep hacks!
Expert Tips for Success
Stir constantly to release the starches from the rice.
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
Don’t rush the process; adding the stock slowly is key to achieving the perfect risotto texture.
Gently reheat on the stove with a bit of additional stock or water to maintain creaminess.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use extra chicken stock in an Avgolemono Soup.
- Lemon and zest can be added to these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Green Beans.
- Arborio rice can be used to make this Greek Rice Pudding (Rizogalo).
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Grilled chicken complements the creamy risotto.
- Steamed asparagus adds a fresh, crunchy element.
- An Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette pairs well with this dish.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Mushroom Risotto
- Asparagus Risotto
- Tomato Basil Risotto
Related
More side dish recipes you will love:
FAQ
While Arborio rice is the most common for its high starch content, you can also use Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice, which are traditional Italian varieties known for their ability to create a creamy texture. Avoid using long-grain rice.
To add protein to your lemon risotto, consider stirring in shrimp towards the end of cooking. These proteins pair well with the creamy and tangy flavors of the risotto. You can also top the risotto with seared scallops for an elegant touch.
To make your lemon risotto extra creamy, stir frequently while adding the warm chicken stock gradually. Incorporate a bit more butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking. You can also add a splash of cream or mascarpone cheese for an even richer texture.
📖 Recipe
Creamy Lemon Risotto with Parmesan and White Wine: Easy Italian Recipe
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Microplane or zester
- Saucepan for warming stock
Ingredients
- 2 cups Arborio rice
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 5 cups chicken stock kept warm
- ⅔ cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon juice, plus zest for garnish
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs parsley, thyme, or basil for garnish
- High-quality olive oil for finishing
Instructions
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Juice the lemon and zest it for garnish. Keep the chicken stock warm in a saucepan over low heat.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Arborio rice to the pot, stirring to coat the grains with the oil and butter. Cook for about 2 minutes until the edges of the rice become translucent.
- Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until the wine is fully absorbed by the rice.
- Begin adding the warm chicken stock one ladle at a time, along with a splash of lemon juice, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked through but still al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs and lemon zest. Finish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving (if desired).
Notes
- Vegetable Broth: Substitute for chicken stock to make it vegetarian.
- White Wine: Use more chicken stock if you prefer to omit alcohol.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
This creamy lemon risotto recipe with Parmesan and white wine is perfect for busy families and home cooks looking for a delicious and easy meal.
Try it tonight and enjoy a taste of Italy at your dinner table!
Always use fresh ingredients and check expiration dates. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Comments
No Comments