Spring Risotto with Peas

Name: Spring Risotto with Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh mint or basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations

I absolutely adore making this Spring Risotto with Peas during the warmer months. The bright green peas bring a fresh pop of color and flavor, and the creamy risotto base is a comforting treat. I love using good-quality broth and freshly grated Parmesan, which really elevate this dish. It’s a simple yet elegant choice for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, allowing us to celebrate the flavors of spring with each delicious spoonful.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:34:28.051Z

When I first tried my hand at risotto, I must admit I was intimidated. However, I quickly learned that the key is all about patience and good broth. Starting with a flavorful base and adding the broth gradually makes for a perfect creamy texture. I find adding peas towards the end ensures they retain their vibrant color and tender crunch, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.

One of my favorite variations is to finish the risotto with a handful of fresh mint or basil, which brightens up the flavor profile even further. You won’t believe how these simple ingredients come together to create a comforting yet elegant dish that highlights spring produce beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Fresh and vibrant flavors that celebrate spring
Versatile enough to make for a casual dinner or a special occasion

Understanding Risotto Techniques

One of the key techniques to mastering risotto is the gradual addition of broth. This process allows the starch contained in the Arborio rice to be released slowly, leading to a creamy texture. It's crucial to keep the broth warm while adding it to the rice; cold broth can shock the grains and affect their cooking process. When adding broth, make sure to stir continuously, as this helps release more starch and contributes to that desired creaminess.

As you cook the risotto, watch the rice closely. It should be al dente when the adding process is finished, meaning it should have a slight bite to it. If undercooked, simply add more broth and continue stirring until it's done. Conversely, overcooking will yield a mushy risotto, so aim for the perfect balance. When you achieve that glossy appearance, that's your cue that the rice is ready for the next ingredients!

Ingredient Insights

The choice of broth can significantly impact the final flavor of your risotto. Using homemade vegetable or chicken broth is highly recommended, as it provides a rich, layered taste that enhances the dish. If you're short on time, high-quality store-bought broth can also work in a pinch. Additionally, using fresh peas rather than frozen ones will give you a brighter color and more vibrant flavor, as they tend to be sweeter and more tender.

The quality of your Parmesan cheese is also essential. Opt for a block of Parmigiano Reggiano and grate it fresh just before using. This ensures you get the authentic flavor that pre-packaged grated varieties may lack. If you're seeking a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be a good substitute, providing a similar umami flavor profile without the cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create the perfect spring risotto:

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh mint or basil for garnish (optional)

Ensure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious risotto:

Sauté Aromatics

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir for another 2-3 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and stir until it's mostly absorbed. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor.

Add Broth Gradually

Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is nearly absorbed before adding more broth.

Incorporate Peas

After about 20 minutes, when the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the peas and continue cooking for another five minutes.

Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh mint or basil if desired. Enjoy!

Risotto is best served hot, right after cooking, to enjoy its creamy texture.

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end. Also, feel free to customize with other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prep ahead, risotto is best enjoyed freshly made for its creamy texture, but you can prepare certain components in advance. Chop your vegetables and measure out the rice and broth so that your cooking process is swift. Alternatively, you can cook the risotto and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of hot broth to restore its creamy consistency, as risotto tends to thicken when cooled.

You can freeze risotto, but keep in mind that the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, cool it completely and portion it into airtight containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop with added broth or water to achieve that creamy melt-in-your-mouth quality again.

Serving Suggestions

This Spring Risotto with Peas pairs beautifully with light proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp, making it a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside a simple mixed greens salad for a fresh and vibrant dinner experience. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or asparagus to the risotto during the cooking process; not only do they add layering flavors, but they also complement the sweetness of the peas.

For a touch more elegance, sprinkle some lemon zest over finished plates before serving. This bright citrus note beautifully enhances the flavors of spring in the dish. Additionally, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can add a lush finish, taking the overall flavor profile to new heights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

Brown rice will not yield the same creamy texture as Arborio rice and will require different cooking times.

→ How do I store leftover risotto?

Store risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

→ Can I make this risotto vegan?

Yes! Substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast and use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.

→ What can I serve with risotto?

Risotto pairs well with a simple green salad or grilled vegetables to balance the richness.