Pea & Asparagus Risotto with Wild Garlic Pesto
This easy creamy, zesty risotto is packed with fresh spring flavours. Sweet peas, tender asparagus, and bright lemon bring a vibrant twist, while the rich and nutty wild garlic pesto adds depth and aroma. A comforting yet elegant dish, perfect for any occasion and ready in no time!
Ingredients (Serves 3-4)
300g risotto rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
60ml olive oil, 50ml for pesto rest for cooking and serving
approximately 1 Liter warm water (or vegetable broth)
200 frozen peas (or fresh if available)
1 bunch asparagus (about 200g), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
Juice of 1 lemon, half for the rice half for the pesto
20g butter
100g grated Parmesan cheese, 60g for pesto, rest for risotto and serving
1 bunch fresh wild garlic (about 50g)
40g walnuts
Salt & black pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Make the wild garlic pesto
Blend wild garlic, walnuts, half of the lemon juice, 50ml of the olive oil, 2-4 tablespoons of warm water, 60g of Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust consistency with more olive oil or water if needed. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the onions
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent.
Step 3: Toast the rice
Add the risotto rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly transparent.
Step 4: Cook the risotto
Gradually add warm water (or broth), stirring well. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, adding more water as needed to keep the rice cooking evenly.
Step 5: Add the vegetables
Stir in the peas and asparagus, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
Step 6: Finish with lemon & Parmesan
Add the other half of the lemon juice, butter, and 20-30g of Parmesan cheese. Stir well, then remove from heat and let the risotto rest for 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Serve & enjoy
Plate the risotto and top with extra Parmesan and a generous dollop of wild garlic pesto. Drizzle extra olive oil over it if you wish.
This risotto is creamy, comforting, and full of fresh flavours—perfect for a cozy dinner or a springtime gathering. Enjoy!
