How To Make Creamy Gluten-Free Risotto with Spring Peas
This creamy gluten-free risotto with spring peas is easy and delicious as a side or main dish! Creamy rice simmered with leeks and chicken stock or vegetable broth. This versatile recipe combines fresh spring peas, Basil Mint Pesto, and grated parmesan cheese. It’s light, creamy, layered with flavor, and perfect for any holiday table or weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 35 Minutes
- Yield: 6 Servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean Diet
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups of Arborio rice (risotto rice)
- 2 leeks chopped
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable stock or chicken broth
- Parmesan for sprinkling
- Basil, Mint Pesto:
- 1 cup fresh basil
- 1/4 cup fresh mint
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic gloves
- 2tbsp pumpkin seeds
- A half lemon
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a cast iron skillet or regular skillet.
- Add leeks and cook until softened, over medium heat, about 5-6 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the rice and stir. Leave on the heat for 1-2 minutes, then add 2 cups of the stock. Mix well and leave on low heat for 5-6 minutes. Then, add the rest of the stock.
- Add the peas shortly after the rice has absorbed most of the liquid. Cook for 6-7 minutes on a low simmer until the rest of the liquid evaporates and the peas and rice fully cook. Add salt to taste. If too think it’s too thick, add additional broth.
Prepare the Basil Mint Pesto
- Mix fresh basil, fresh mint, parmesan, olive oil, garlic, pumpkin seeds, half a lemon juice, and salt to taste in a blender. Blend until you get a smooth mixture. Add an additional drizzle of olive oil if needed.
- Assemble the Risotto.
- Add the pesto to the pea risotto and stir completely until the ingredients are combined.
- Serve warm with grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a saucepan on low. You can add additional broth if needed.