Head to The Farmers Market (Or Your Garden!) and Enjoy This Delicious Spring Pea Risotto Recipe

Savoring Spring: Fresh Flavors to Welcome the Season

I don't know about you, but my garden is very happy right now. Everything is green, lush, and my herbs and lettuces are particularly delicious. From crisp salads bursting with garden-fresh vegetables to light and airy desserts infused with the essence of springtime, there's no shortage of delicious options to enjoy as the days slowly get warmer.

Embracing Seasonal Produce

One of the joys of spring is the abundance of seasonal produce that graces our markets and grocery stores. From tender asparagus and juicy strawberries to vibrant peas and fragrant herbs, spring offers a cornucopia of fresh ingredients to inspire our culinary creations. These ingredients not only add vibrant color and flavor to our dishes but also provide a wealth of nutrients to nourish our bodies after the long winter months. Enjoy this delicious pea risotto recipe!

Delicious Pea Risotto. Image by Alesia Kozik.

Recipe: Spring Pea and Mint Risotto

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Arborio rice

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas

• 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste
  

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat until warm. Keep the broth warm while you prepare the risotto.

2. In another large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

3. Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes, until the rice is lightly toasted.

4. Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine is absorbed by the rice.

5. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth to the rice, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and tender, about 20-25 minutes.

6. Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the peas are heated through.

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

8. Serve the risotto immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and mint leaves if desired. Enjoy!
   

Elevating Springtime Dining

Whether you're hosting a springtime brunch with friends or enjoying a quiet dinner with loved ones, incorporating seasonal ingredients into your meals is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of the season. So dust off your apron, head to the farmers' market, and let the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of spring inspire your culinary adventures. From crisp salads to savory entrees and decadent desserts, there's no limit to the delicious dishes you can create to celebrate the arrival of spring.