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Pea & Mint Orzo Risotto

Creamy Pea & Mint Orzo Risotto for a Fresh Spring Dinner

Enjoy this Creamy Pea & Mint Orzo Risotto, a vibrant spring dish filled with fresh ingredients in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Risotto
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo The heart of the dish; alternative short-grain rice can be used, but timing will vary.
  • 1 cup Green Peas Adds sweetness and color; fresh or frozen can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics.
  • 1 medium Shallot Adds a mild onion flavor; can substitute with yellow onion.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Contributes savory depth; minced for even distribution.
  • 3 cups Vegetable or Chicken Broth Infuses great flavor; can use water in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavor during cooking; adjust based on preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds seasoning and warmth to the dish.
  • 1 cup Goat Cheese Adds creaminess and tang; substitute with dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Provides acidity to balance flavors.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Mint Leaves Provides aromatic flavor; use more for extra garnish.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Essential for a fresh taste.
For the Topping
  • ¼ cup Extra Goat Cheese For added richness; crumbled over the top enhances presentation.
  • ¼ cup Mint Leaves Use for garnish; brightens the dish and adds visual appeal.
  • 2 wedges Lemon Serve alongside for an extra refreshing squeeze if desired.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Blender
  • Medium pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Add the green peas and blanch them for about 6 minutes, until they become vibrant green and tender. Once done, quickly strain the peas and reserve half for later.
  2. Transfer the remaining blanched peas into a blender. Add a splash of the blanching liquid along with fresh mint leaves. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a vibrant purée.
  3. In a medium pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add minced shallots and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly golden.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of dry orzo into the pot, allowing it to toast slightly for about 1 minute. Gradually add the blended pea mixture in batches, stirring continuously.
  5. Slowly pour in about 3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth while continuously stirring the mixture. Maintain medium heat and let the orzo cook for about 10 minutes, adding more liquid as needed.
  6. Once the orzo is cooked through, remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the reserved blanched peas. Add in crumbled goat cheese, lemon zest, and juice.
  7. Spoon the creamy risotto into bowls, topping each serving with extra crumbled goat cheese, fresh mint leaves, and a wedge of lemon on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Avoid overcooking the peas to maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. When storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge.

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