Spring Pea Risotto

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

March 28, 2025

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The sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and there’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than with a bowl of creamy Spring Pea Risotto. Picture yourself in an idyllic garden, surrounded by the sweet aroma of fresh peas and herbs wafting through the air, while each creamy bite transports you to culinary bliss. You can practically hear the birds chirping in approval!

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a sunny Saturday afternoon when my friends visited for brunch. As I stirred the pot and watched the rice transform into a luscious green wonderland, I couldn’t help but feel like a master chef—complete with an apron that said “Kiss the Cook” (which no one did). The laughter around the table as we dove into this vibrant creation was infectious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delicious Spring Pea Risotto is quick to prepare without sacrificing flavor—you’ll impress everyone in no time.
It shines with bright flavors and colors that make it visually stunning.
You can easily customize it with other spring vegetables or herbs based on your preference.
Perfect for elegant dinners or casual family meals alike!

I once had my friend declare my Spring Pea Risotto as “life-changing” right before asking for seconds—it was a proud moment!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Arborio Rice: This short-grain rice creates that creamy texture known in risottos; don’t substitute unless you want heartbreak.
Fresh Green Peas: Opt for sweet, tender peas; frozen works too if you’re feeling lazy—no judgment here!
Vegetable Broth: Homemade or store-bought broth adds depth; choose low-sodium to keep things balanced.
Shallots: These little gems bring a subtle sweetness; they’re milder than onions but pack a flavor punch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh for best results; it melts beautifully into the risotto providing richness.
Fresh Herbs (like Basil or Mint): Brighten up your dish with fresh herbs—these add an aromatic kick that screams spring!
Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances flavors significantly.
Lemon Zest: A sprinkle brings brightness and balances richness; trust me—your taste buds will thank you!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add finely chopped shallots until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma.

Toasting the Rice: Mix in Arborio rice and toast it gently for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly translucent at the edges—a lovely sight!

Add Broth Gradually: Pour in vegetable broth one ladle at a time while stirring continuously. Wait until most of the liquid absorbs before adding more—this part requires some love!

Add Fresh Peas and Herbs: When your rice is almost al dente (about 15-20 minutes), stir in those lovely green peas and your choice of herbs. The color will pop like spring itself!

Finishing Touches: Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with lemon zest. Adjust seasoning if necessary; taste-testing is essential!

Now you have a creamy bowl of joy ready to take center stage at any meal!

Enjoy your culinary journey with this delightful Spring Pea Risotto!

You Must Know

Spring pea risotto is creamy, satisfying, and perfect for showcasing fresh spring peas.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and delightful textures.
Your family will be begging for seconds, and you might even get a few compliments!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions until translucent, then gradually add arborio rice, stirring constantly while adding broth slowly. This method ensures the rice absorbs flavors beautifully while achieving that creamy texture we all crave.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out peas for asparagus or add lemon zest for a citrusy kick. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint to elevate your spring pea risotto even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought.
Stirring constantly helps release the starches from the rice, creating creaminess.
Always season progressively; taste as you go to achieve perfect seasoning.

Cooking this spring pea risotto reminds me of my first dinner party where guests raved about it—turns out they loved it more than my dessert!

FAQ

What type of rice is best for risotto?

Arborio rice works best due to its high starch content for creaminess.

Can I make spring pea risotto vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and omit any cheese or butter.

How do I keep risotto creamy when reheating?

Add a little broth or water while reheating to restore creaminess and flavor.

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