Spring Risotto with Peas

Name: Spring Risotto with Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals

I love making Spring Risotto with Peas as a way to celebrate the freshness of the season. There’s something magical about the combination of creamy Arborio rice and sweet peas that brings a burst of flavor to my plate. Each bite is vibrant and satisfying, making it a perfect dish for lunch or dinner. Plus, this recipe is surprisingly simple and quick to prepare, allowing me to enjoy a hearty meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this delightful springtime treat!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:17:27.501Z

When I first tried making risotto, I was intimidated by the idea of constant stirring. However, I found that the key is to maintain a consistent simmer and add the broth gradually. This method not only ensures creamy rice but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I always choose fresh peas during spring, as they elevate the dish with their sweet, tender bite.

Another tip I discovered is to finish the risotto with a splash of lemon juice and grated Parmesan. This simple addition brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess, making every forkful irresistible. Trust me, it’s a small detail that makes a big difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh seasonal ingredients make every bite vibrant and delicious.
The creamy texture combined with a pop of sweet peas is utterly satisfying.
It's a quick yet impressive dish, perfect for both weeknight dinners and gatherings.

Perfecting the Risotto Technique

The key to a creamy risotto lies in how you add the broth. Traditional methods recommend adding broth gradually, which allows the Arborio rice to absorb the liquid slowly. This technique releases the starches from the rice, creating that signature creamy texture. Aim for a low simmer when adding the broth; if it's too hot, you may cook the rice too quickly and lose that creamy element. Stir constantly, as this not only helps with absorption but also keeps the grains from sticking.

Keep an eye on the texture of the rice. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite yet not chalky. Typically, this takes around 18-20 minutes of consistent stirring and broth addition. If you find your risotto is getting too thick too quickly, add a bit more broth than specified to keep it silky and smooth.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Fresh peas are not just sweet; they add vibrant color and a slight crunch to your risotto. If you're using frozen peas, add them in the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy. You can also experiment with other spring vegetables like asparagus or spinach, which can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Sauté them briefly with the onion and garlic to incorporate their flavors before adding the rice.

Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty flavor that acts as a delicious counterpoint to the sweet peas. Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred over pre-grated for its superior texture and flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a vegan Parmesan substitute. Just be sure to taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning after adding any substitutes.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat and keep it simmering throughout the cooking process.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Toast the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the grains are lightly translucent.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until it has mostly evaporated.

Cook the Risotto

Begin adding the simmering broth, one ladle at a time, stirring until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Add Peas and Finish

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the peas. Once the risotto is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil during the last few minutes of cooking. They pair beautifully with the peas and add an aromatic touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, it’s important to store them properly. Allow the risotto to cool at room temperature for no more than an hour before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy texture, as it often thickens upon cooling.

For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the base risotto without the peas and cheese. Store it in the fridge, and when you're ready to serve, stir in the peas and cheese, adding any additional broth as needed to heat through. This not only saves time on busy days but allows you to customize the dish each time you serve it.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Pair your spring risotto with a crisp green salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint can elevate the dish, adding fresh notes that complement the sweetness of the peas. You can also try drizzling a bit of truffle oil on top to give it a gourmet touch that will impress your guests.

For those looking to add more protein, consider incorporating cooked shrimp or scallops into the risotto during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the dish but turns it into a heartier main course suitable for entertaining. For a vegetarian twist, grilled mushrooms can offer a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make risotto in advance?

While it's best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare the base and reheat it gently. Add a little broth to loosen it up during reheating.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.

→ Is this risotto gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used are gluten-free, but ensure that the broth is labeled gluten-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms can be excellent additions to this spring risotto.