Name: Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto with Spring Peas Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken broth; 2 shallots, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 1/2 cups arborio rice, uncooked; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper; 1/3 cup white wine or additional chicken broth; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 cup frozen spring peas, thawed; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon peel, grated

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 37 reviews

If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with bright flavors, luscious creaminess, and a touch of springtime freshness, you’ve just found your new favorite. The Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto with Spring Peas Recipe is a delightful Italian side dish that transforms simple ingredients like arborio rice, fresh peas, and Parmesan cheese into a velvety, comforting masterpiece. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress without stress, bringing a sunny zest that lifts every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black skillet filled with creamy white risotto rice grains cooked evenly, covering the entire bottom layer. A woman's hand is pouring a stream of light yellow broth from a small metallic cup onto the rice, slightly pooling in the center where a wooden spoon rests partially submerged, ready to stir. The background features a wooden board and glass of light-colored liquid, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, zest, and that inviting texture risotto is known for. With just a handful of essentials, you’ll have a flavorful dish that looks and tastes like a restaurant classic.

4 cups chicken broth: Keeps the risotto moist as well as adds depth to its savory base.
2 shallots, finely chopped: Provide gentle sweetness and an aromatic foundation.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the shallots perfectly.
1 1/2 cups arborio rice, uncooked: The classic risotto rice that absorbs liquids while giving the dish that irresistible creamy texture.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Delivers a subtle herbal note to complement the lemon’s brightness.
1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: Offers a gentle peppery kick without overpowering.
1/3 cup white wine (or additional chicken broth): Adds acidity and enhances overall flavor complexity.
3 tablespoons lemon juice: Brings fresh zing to brighten the creamy risotto.
1 cup frozen spring peas, thawed: Inject vibrant color and a sweet pop with every bite.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Gives a nutty, salty finish that melts perfectly into the rice.
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon peel, grated: Intensifies the citrusy aroma and flavor without extra liquid.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto with Spring Peas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Broth and Shallots

Begin by warming the chicken broth gently in a small saucepan over low heat. Keeping it warm throughout cooking is crucial for perfect risotto consistency. Meanwhile, sauté the finely chopped shallots in butter over medium heat until they’re tender and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step releases their sweetness and sets a flavorful base.

Step 2: Toast the Rice and Add Aromatics

Add your arborio rice, dried thyme, and black pepper to the skillet with the shallots. Stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast lightly and absorb some of the butter and aromatic flavors. This toasting step enhances nutty undertones and primes the rice to soak up liquids beautifully.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine and Lemon Juice

Pour in the white wine and fresh lemon juice, stirring until fully absorbed. The acidity not only prevents the risotto from becoming too heavy but also brightens the entire dish with that unmistakable lemony twang, making this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto with Spring Peas Recipe stand out.

Step 4: Cook Using Warm Broth

Slowly add your warmed chicken broth one half-cup at a time, stirring constantly and waiting until each addition is almost completely absorbed before adding the next. This gradual liquid absorption is the heart of risotto’s signature creamy texture. Continue cooking for about 20 minutes or until the rice is plump and nearly tender, stirring frequently to coax out the starch.

Step 5: Finish with Peas, Cheese, and Lemon Zest

Once the rice is perfect, gently fold in the thawed spring peas, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon peel. Stir and cook just until everything is heated through and all those fabulous flavors meld into a harmonious, creamy delight. This final step brings freshness and bursts of flavor that truly bring this recipe to life.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto with Spring Peas Recipe

A white plate filled with a mixture of white rice and bright green peas makes up the main dish. On top, two thin lemon slices with a light yellow color rest gently, adding a fresh touch. To the right, a white plate holds more of the same rice and pea mix, slightly messy, with a wooden spoon placed on top, some rice and peas sticking to it. A white cloth napkin is partly tucked under this plate. In the upper left corner, a small white bowl with fresh green parsley adds color, alongside several slices of brown bread stacked in a fan shape. A glass of pale golden drink stands near the bottom left, next to two silver knives on a surface with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a simple yet elegant presentation, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese and some freshly cracked black pepper over the top. A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds color and an herbal pop that complements the lemon beautifully.

Side Dishes

This risotto is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins. Think grilled chicken, pan-seared scallops, or even a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess. Its bright, fresh flavors make it a fresh alternative to heavier starches like mashed potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it elegantly in shallow bowls with a lemon wedge on the side for guests to add extra zing if they like. Alternatively, consider plating the risotto inside hollowed-out lemon halves for a showstopping presentation that’s as fun as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover risotto in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy texture may thicken, so a little reheating moisture will help bring it back to life.

Freezing

Though risotto is best fresh, it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that freezing and thawing may alter the risotto’s texture slightly.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the risotto on the stovetop with a splash of warm chicken broth or water, stirring frequently to restore its creamy consistency without drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this risotto vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just replace the chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth to keep all the fantastic flavors while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas are a delightful option when in season. Simply blanch them briefly before adding to maintain their vibrant color and sweet flavor.

Is white wine necessary in the recipe?

While white wine adds depth and acidity, you can substitute it with additional broth if you prefer, though the flavor will be a bit less complex.

What type of cheese works best besides Parmesan?

Parmesan is classic for risotto because it melts well and adds nutty saltiness, but Pecorino Romano can also be a great substitute for a sharper finish.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be tender with a slight bite in the center and the overall texture creamy—not mushy or dry. Taste often toward the end to get it just right.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Risotto with Spring Peas Recipe is one of those special dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its luxurious texture and fresh, vibrant flavors make it an ideal side for a family dinner or festive gathering. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how such simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable and delicious.