Discover how to create a creamy asparagus pea risotto using fresh spring vegetables, Arborio rice, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe offers a light yet satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

I keep asparagus pea risotto recipe in regular rotation because it delivers big flavor without fuss. On busy weeknights, it comes together fast with pantry staples I always have on hand.

What I love most is the balance—rich, savory notes with a clean finish that never feels heavy. It’s reliable for meal prep and easy to scale when friends drop by.

I usually serve it with a crisp salad or warm flatbread, and leftovers reheat beautifully the next day.

Quick Facts

Recipe Highlights

This risotto is a favorite for its fresh, vibrant flavors and creamy texture that feels indulgent without heaviness. It’s a great way to enjoy spring vegetables in a comforting dish.

• Showcases fresh, seasonal vegetables at their peak flavor
• Naturally creamy texture without heavy cream or artificial thickeners
• Vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable to other diets
• Balanced nutrition with fiber, protein, and healthy fats
• Quick enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant for guests
• Versatile as a main dish or side, pairing well with proteins

What You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create a deliciously creamy risotto packed with fresh asparagus and peas.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make It

Step-by-step instructions guide you through making a perfectly creamy risotto with tender vegetables and bright flavors.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the grains in oil.
4. Pour in the white wine, if using, and cook until mostly absorbed.
5. Begin adding the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle.
6. After about 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the asparagus pieces and peas.
7. Continue adding broth and stirring until the rice is creamy and tender but still has a slight bite, about 5-7 more minutes.
8. Remove from heat and stir in the butter, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Let the risotto rest for a minute, then serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Helpful Tips

Helpful hints to ensure your risotto is creamy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection every time.

• Keep the broth warm throughout the cooking process to maintain an even temperature.
• Stir frequently but gently to release the rice’s starch without breaking the grains.
• Add vegetables partway through cooking to keep them crisp and vibrant.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t rush the cooking; patience is key to creamy risotto.
• Taste the rice often to check for doneness and seasoning.

Ingredient Swaps

Flexible ingredient swaps to accommodate what’s on hand or dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

• Swap asparagus for green beans or broccolini for a similar texture
• Use frozen peas if fresh aren’t available; thaw before adding
• Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different flavor
• Omit white wine and use extra broth or a splash of lemon juice instead
• Use chicken broth if not vegetarian or vegetable broth for vegan options

Storage Tips

Simple storage tips to keep your risotto fresh and tasty for leftovers or meal prep.

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stove with a little broth or water to restore creaminess
• Avoid freezing as it can alter the risotto’s texture
• If microwaving, cover and stir occasionally to heat evenly

Nutritional Info