Spring Pea and Mint Risotto

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Spring Pea and Mint Risotto is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of spring with its fresh ingredients and creamy texture. The combination of sweet peas and refreshing mint makes it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Spring Pea and Mint Risotto

Olive oil serves as the base, providing a subtle richness. Onion and garlic add depth and aroma. Arborio rice is key for that creamy risotto texture. Dry white wine elevates the flavor with a touch of acidity. Vegetable broth is used instead of water to infuse the rice with flavor as it cooks. Peas contribute sweetness and a pop of color. Parmesan cheese offers a savory note, while fresh mint leaves bring a refreshing finish. Season with salt and pepper to enhance all flavors. Lemon zest is optional for a citrusy kick.

Tips & Tricks

  • Keep the broth warm to ensure even cooking when added to the rice.
  • Stir frequently but gently to prevent the risotto from sticking and to help release the rice's starch for creaminess.
  • If you prefer a more intense mint flavor, add the mint while the risotto is still cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This risotto pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For a more robust meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. A chilled glass of the same dry white wine used in the recipe also complements the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of rice?
Arborio rice is best for risotto due to its high starch content, but you can use Carnaroli or Vialone Nano as alternatives.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
What if I don't have white wine?
You can substitute with an equal amount of extra broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

Spring Pea and Mint Risotto Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and garlic, cooking them until they turn translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes and will form the fragrant base for your risotto.

Next, introduce the Arborio rice to the pan. Stirring continuously, cook the rice for about 2 minutes until it becomes lightly toasted. This step helps the rice absorb the flavors more effectively.

Pour in the white wine, stirring until it's fully absorbed by the rice. This deglazes the pan, picking up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Now, begin adding the vegetable broth. Add it one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb each addition of broth before adding the next. This process should take about 15 minutes.

When the rice is nearly cooked, toss in the peas and stir well. Continue cooking until the rice is creamy and the peas are tender, around 5 more minutes.

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, and if desired, garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly creamy texture with a hint of freshness.
  • Easy to make with straightforward steps.
  • Uses seasonal ingredients that bring a burst of flavor.
  • Can be made vegetarian-friendly with simple substitutions.

Ingredients

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

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 2 minutes, until the rice is lightly toasted.
3. Pour in the white wine and stir until completely absorbed by the rice.
4. Begin adding the heated vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth.
5. After approximately 15 minutes, when the rice is nearly cooked, add the peas and stir well.
6. Continue cooking until the rice is creamy and the peas are tender, about 5 more minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon zest if desired.

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