Pea and Mint Risotto is a vibrant, creamy dish that captures the essence of spring in every spoonful. The sweet pop of fresh or frozen peas combined with the cool brightness of mint brings a refreshing twist to traditional risotto. Creamy, comforting, and bursting with green, this dish is perfect for warmer days when you want something satisfying yet light.
The base of the risotto is made using Arborio rice, which slowly releases its starch as it’s stirred, creating a naturally rich and velvety texture without needing heavy cream. The peas, added near the end of cooking, provide a tender bite and delicate sweetness that balances the richness of the rice. Fresh mint is stirred in just before serving, lifting the flavor with its herbal brightness and turning the dish into something that feels garden-fresh and modern.
Pea and Mint Risotto is delicious on its own but also pairs beautifully with lemony grilled chicken, roasted fish, or a side of sautéed greens. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dollop of mascarpone adds depth, while a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can highlight the freshness even more. For a little extra texture, you can garnish it with pea shoots or toasted pine nuts.
This dish is as visually appealing as it is flavorful, with its soft green tones and creamy consistency. It’s a great choice for a vegetarian meal or as an elegant first course at a dinner party. And despite its refined feel, it’s comforting enough to enjoy as a simple weeknight dinner, especially when spring produce is at its peak.
Pea and Mint Risotto combines the classic technique of slow-cooked risotto with light, seasonal ingredients. It’s a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy, and that fresh herbs and vegetables can completely transform a traditional dish into something new and memorable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 3 cups vegetable stock warm
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas thawed
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint chopped
- 1 lemon juice zested
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat the grains with the oil.
- Begin adding the warm vegetable stock, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
- Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked through, about 18-20 minutes.
- Stir in the peas, Parmesan cheese, mint, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint and Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
I don’t know, I think this recipe is missing something. It felt a bit bland to me. Maybe more cheese next time?
Mint and peas? Sounds weird! But I tried it and it was actually pretty good! Who knew healthy could taste nice.
Yay! I’m glad you liked it! I never thought mint would go with peas either. Gonna try this soon!
This risotto is delicious! The mint adds such a fresh flavor. I can’t believe how creamy it turned out! Will definitely make again.
Totally agree! The mint really makes a difference. I never thought to use it in risotto before. Can’t wait to try this myself!
The peas didn’t cook well. I think they needed more time? I ended up with crunchy peas, yuck!
Thought it was too bland. Added garlic and some chili flakes. Much better!
This sounds super fresh and comforting—peas + mint + lemon is such a nice combo. I’m definitely trying it, especially the lemon zest part.
Wait, peas + mint in risotto sounds kinda weird to me 😅 But lemon zest might save it. How much mint do you use—like tablespoons for real?
Totally agree—mint + lemon makes it feel so light but still cozy. I’ve never tried it in risotto though, so I’m excited!
Yum!!! This was a hit with my fam. They all ate it up!! Thanks for sharing!!
Eh, I don’t see the hype. Just tastes like mushy rice to me. 🤷♂️
Love peas, love mint, but risotto is fussy. I almost gave up halfway because it felt too thick, then it loosened after a couple more ladles. Flavor is worth it.
This risotto is so creamy and delicious! The mint adds a refreshing touch.
Not sure if I did something wrong, my rice was a bit crunchy even after 20 min. Maybe my stock wasn’t hot enough when adding?
Hmm maybe you didn’t stir enough? Or your rice wasn’t Arborio? 20 min is sometimes short. I usually cook until it’s creamy but still has a tiny bite—if it’s crunchy crunch, keep adding hot stock a little longer.
That sounds like the stock temp might’ve been the issue—or you may have needed a few more ladles/minutes. For risotto, the stock should be warm/steaming, and the whole process usually takes closer to 25 minutes depending on the pan and heat.
Peas and mint? Not what I expected but it surprisingly worked! Who knew? Good job!
Okay, but like, how are you supposed to know when it’s done? I just guessed.
Peas are for kids, not adults. I’ll stick with my chicken Alfredo. 😝
Chicken Alfredo is great, but you should give this a chance! Peas add a nice pop of flavor! 😄
I think risotto is super overrated. It’s just rice with some stuff. But my kids finished their plates, so that’s something.
This is not risotto, it’s just green goo. Not impressed.
I think it looks delicious! Peas and mint are a fresh combo. Don’t let haters get to you!
This was so yummy! The mint really made a difference. Will make again!
I wasn’t sure if I would like this because of the mint, but it was surprisingly good. Just a bit too creamy for my taste.
This recipe is not how my grandma makes risotto. I don’t think real risotto has peas and mint 😒. Just use mushrooms next time.
Peas don’t belong in risotto! Just saying! 😂
This risotto was amazing! So creamy and the mint really brings out the flavors. It was a hit at dinner!
I’m glad you loved it! I added a pinch of garlic and it took it to the next level!
Mint in risotto? Really? That sounds weird.. I would never try that!
I thought risotto was supposed to have chicken? Why are there no meat options in this? 🤔
I thought risotto was always with meat too! This seems kinda weird. Are people really eating it like this? 😕
Risotto can be made in many ways! This one is vegetarian, but you can easily add chicken if you want! 🍗
I tried making this, but it turned out too mushy. Maybe I added too much stock. 🙁
I had the same problem before! Just try adding less stock next time. It’ll definitely make a difference! 😊
Mushy risotto is a bummer. But remember, it could also be the rice. Not all Arborio is created equal!
Mint is underrated. This would be perfect for spring dinner or even as a side with roast chicken.
Totally agree—mint really does shine here. The lemon zest sounds like a great way to keep the risotto from feeling heavy, especially with peas!
Delicious! I added garlic for extra flavor and it was bomb! Will make again!
Garlic sounds like a great idea! I’m definitely trying that next time.
3 cups stock is a lot… I might reduce it and see. If it works, I’ll call it “lazy risotto.” If not, oh well.
Very tasty! I used chicken stock instead of veg. Not sure if it was right but yum!
Using chicken stock sounds like a great idea! It adds more flavor. I might try that next time.
But like, isn’t risotto supposed to be vegetarian? I don’t know… seems weird to me.
I dunno… I followed the recipe but mine turned out kinda mushy. Maybe I added too much stock? 🤔
Mine turned out kinda thick and not as creamy. I probably didn’t keep the stock hot or I waited too long between ladles. Flavor is good, just need technique.
Totally get that—keeping the stock hot is a big deal for risotto creaminess. I always keep the pot of stock simmering right next to me, then add ladles without long breaks.
This sounds fancy but it was actually pretty straightforward. I used homemade veg stock and the flavor was way better. Great weeknight dinner.
This sounds fresh and cozy. Mint + lemon in risotto is such a nice twist, and the constant ladling makes it feel classic.
1 cup arborio and 3 cups stock sounds right but it was too soupy for me at first. I cooked 5 mins longer and it fixed. Tasty.
Yummy! I added some chicken too! Super delish!
Very easy to make! I added some chicken because I wanted some protein. Still tasty!
Not sure what went wrong, but mine turned out too watery. I didn’t like the taste of mint with the peas either. Ugh, disappoint!
Made this tonight—so fresh and springy! The mint + lemon combo is legit and the risotto came out creamy after 20 minutes. Will definitely repeat.
I don’t think the lemon really works with the peas, it felt kind of odd. Not sure if I’ll make it again.
I don’t really get the point of mint in risotto. Kinda weird, right?
Not gonna lie, “to taste salt and pepper” is kinda vague, lol. Like… how much is to taste when you’re cooking for real people?
Simple yet elegant dish. Tastes like restaurant quality! 👍
This risotto was so creamy, I loved it! The mint adds a fresh twist. Definitely a keeper! 🥳
This risotto is amazing! The mint gives it such a fresh flavor. Definitely gonna make it again!
Tried this last night and it was a total disaster. my rice was still hard! Followed the steps but something went wrong.
Really loved this recipe! I added some garlic for extra flavor too.
I followed it pretty closely, but mine turned out a little thick after resting for a couple minutes. Next time I’ll keep it slightly looser and serve right away like the instructions say. Flavor was still good though!
That sounds super fixable! Risotto thickens as it rests—keeping it a bit looser and serving right away usually nails the texture. Glad the flavor was still on point.
Yum! So good! I added garlic too and it made it even better!
This risotto turned out AMAZING! The mint adds such a fresh flavor. Will definitely make again!
Wow, who knew peas and mint could taste so good together? Might become a regular meal for me!
Super easy to make! I even subbed some things because I didn’t have mint, and it still turned out great! ☺️
Just okay. I expected more from this, honestly. The mint was a weird texture, not my thing.
I can sort of see what you mean. Mint can be hit or miss in dishes. It wasn’t really my favorite either, but maybe with more cheese it would help?
I had a really hard time with the stock. I think i added too much? It was soupy and not good. 🙁
Peas in risotto? Who thought that was a good idea? I won’t be trying this again. Disappointing.
Is this even real food? Just rice and peas haha. Can’t believe people rave about it.
I thought it was simple, but risotto is supposed to be creamy! I love it, especially with mint. 😍
Rice and peas? C’mon, that’s not really a meal. It needs more, like meat or something.
I don’t get the hype. Mint in risotto? Really? That sounds kinda weird to me. 2 stars.
I dunno man, risotto is way too much work. Just stick to pasta, it’s easier and tastes better.
Followed it pretty closely, though I didn’t stir constantly the whole time and it still came out decent. Peas were a nice touch.
This risotto was absolutely delicious! The mint really added a fresh touch. Will be making it again!
Didn’t have peas, so I used corn. Still turned out great! Will make again.
Yum! Perfect for a summer dinner. Peas and mint are a good match, who knew?
I totally agree! I’ve never thought about using mint with peas, but it sounds delicious!
No way. This was too hard to make. I don’t have time to stare at a pot! 🙁
Perfect for a nice dinner! Creamy and tastes fresh.
It was okay, but I don’t think the mint goes well with peas. Like, why would you mix those?
I tried this recipe but I feel like it needed more flavor. Perhaps garlic? Not bad tho but wouldn’t make it again.
I dunno, I think it’s pretty great as is. Sometimes simple is better! Plus, mint is nice and fresh.
I totally agree! Garlic would have taken this up a notch. I love garlic in everything! But it’s still a decent dish.
Tasty!
I followed it pretty closely and it turned out creamy. Next time I’ll add a tiny bit more mint because mine tasted a bit subtle.
Glad it came out creamy! 😊 I totally get wanting more mint—mine tastes stronger if I add a little extra right at the end too.
Solid flavor combo. Mine took closer to 25 minutes though, and I had to add a bit more stock. Still turned out good and the peas stayed nice and sweet.
This is the best recipe I’ve followed in a while! Peas are my favorite and mixed with mint? Genius!
This is super easy! Even my kids loved it. They never eat peas but somehow they devoured this dish!
I dunno. My kids wouldn’t touch peas with a ten-foot pole! Maybe it’s a magic recipe? 🤔
Wow, that’s awesome! I’m sooo glad it worked for your kids! Peas can be tricky sometimes. Gonna try this for my picky eaters too!
Risotta? I thought we zud be making fried rice. ah well, it was straight.
This risotto is amazing! The combination of mint and peas is so refreshing. Will definitely make again!
This turned out super creamy and the mint + lemon combo is honestly refreshing. I used a little extra Parmesan and it was perfect comfort food.
Best meal I’ve made this week! Lemon zest is a game changer! Will definitely make again. 😍
Honestly, I didn’t think adding lemon would make that much diff. Seems like a lot of fuss for just risotto. 🤔
Lemon zest is seriously the best! I made this too, and it really does elevate the flavors. Glad you enjoyed it! 🍋
Nope, not for me. I swapped the peas for corn and it didn’t taste good.
I dunno, corn’s good too. But yeah, it’s like a whole different vibe. Not my cup of tea either.
I think corn might be too sweet for this dish. Peas really balance the flavors better! Just my opinion.
This is the best risotto I’ve ever made! So creamy and flavorful, especially with the mint. Five stars!
Not the best risotto I’ve had. Maybe I overcooked the rice? It was kinda mushy.
It happens! Maybe try less cooking time next time? Risotto can be tricky, but it’s such a great dish when done right!
I don’t know, the lemon felt too strong for my taste. Maybe too much zest?
This risotto was absolutely delicious! The mint really adds a unique flavor. Will make again for sure! 😊
I was a bit skeptical about adding mint, but it actually worked. Surprised in a good way!
I tried this but it came out too mushy. What did I do wrong? I followed the steps!
I made something similar once—pears instead of peas though (??). Yours at least makes sense with the mint. Can’t wait to try.
Pears?? 😄 honestly that sounds kinda interesting. But yeah the mint + lemon is what sells it—glad it makes sense to you!
Hmm, I followd the recipe but mine turned out mushy.. should I have cooked it less? What went wrong?
It was okay, but I felt like it needed something more. Maybe garlic? Just didn’t meet my expectations.
I think garlic would definitely add a nice punch! I always throw some in my risotto. Maybe next time!
Too much stirring, why not just boil it? Cooking should be easy!
This was a super hit at my dinner party! Everyone asked for the recipe. Thank you!
Really? Everyone liked it? 🤔 Because I tried it and it was just ok. Maybe I did something wrong?
I love a good risotto, especially with mint! Can’t wait to try this recipe myself. 😋
I followed the recipe and it was bland until I added more salt. After seasoning properly, it finally popped. Still a nice base.
This sounds super fresh—mint and lemon with creamy risotto is such a good combo. I’d probably add a little extra Parmesan just because.
Honestly, I think risotto is too much stirring for me. But the result smelled amazing and tasted better than expected. Would make again if I had time.
Good recipe, but I had to add a bit more stock than 3 cups. Next time I’ll start checking at 16 minutes instead of 18-20.
Didn’t turn out right! The rice was still hard, even after 30 mins. What did I do wrong??
This turned out great! I used fresh peas from my garden. Such a treat!
I dunno, I tried this recipe and it was too mushy for me. Maybe I did something wrong… 🤷♂️
Fresh peas definitely make a difference! I love that you used them from your garden. It’s a whole new level of flavor! 😊
Hmm, not too impressed. I’ve had better risotto at restaurants. Just ok for me.
Not a fan. The mint is overpowering and the peas just don’t belong in a risotto. Thumbs down from me.
mint in risotto??? sounds weird but it actually works. Who knew!
Simple and delicious, my kids loved it! I added chicken for protein, though.
Absolutely loved this risotto! The mint adds such a fresh flavor. Will make again!
Why do you have to cook it for so long? Can’t you just microwave it?
Made this for dinner and my kids loved it! Plus, it’s super easy to make.
That sounds great! I never thought my kids would enjoy peas but maybe I’ll give this a shot.
So creamy! I added some chicken and it was heavenly! 🌟
Yum! Great recipe! My kids loved it, and that’s a win in my book. 🙌
Simple and delicious! Used fresh peas from my garden, tasted much better than frozen ones.
Came out perfect! My family devoured it! Will make again, cheers!
Risotto? More like boring-otto. I don’t see the hype.
This recipe is amazing! The mint adds a fresh touch. My family loved it!
I’m glad you enjoyed it! The mint really is a game changer. What’s your favorite part?
I tried making this but used cilantro instead of mint. It didn’t taste right at all! I guess mint is a must, huh?
What can I use instead of mint? I don’t like it. Otherwise sounds nice.
Yum! Love this recipe! Perfect for a spring dinner!
I messed it up lol. Burnt the rice but the flavor was still kinda good. My kids liked it. Not bad!
I dunno, burnt rice sounds gross. How could you mess it up? It’s not that hard to make! Maybe read the instructions next time. 🤷♂️
Burnt rice? Oops! But hey, if your kids liked it, that’s a win! Just keep practicing. 😄
Easy to make except when you’re constantly stirring. My arm hurts lol! But worth it for the yumminess!
Waste of time! This is just rice and peas. Who even likes mint in risotto? Not impressed.
Mine turned out watery the first time 😅 I think I wasn’t letting the stock absorb fully between ladles. Second try was way better—creamy like it should be.
Delicious! The mint adds such a nice twist. I served it to my friends and everyone was impressed!
Yum! A nice twist with the lemon 🙂 My kids helped too!
Absolutely loved this risotto! The mint really freshens it up. Can’t believe how easy it was!
This is such a fresh twist on classic risotto—mint + lemon really wakes it up. Mine took the full 20 minutes and I had to keep stirring, but it was creamy and super tasty.
Honestly risotto is a lot of work for “rice.” I’d rather just throw peas in and call it a day.
Mint is one of those ingredients you gotta be careful with. I accidentally used too much once—tasted like toothpaste. This time I’ll start small.
I followed the steps exactly but my rice was still a little hard at 20 minutes. Maybe my stock wasn’t hot enough? I ended up simmering longer and it finally came together.
Heard risotto takes time but why so much stirring? I got bored halfway through. Taste was alright tho. 🌿
I get it! Seriously, the stirring can be exhausting. But it’s all about getting that creamy texture. Maybe next time it’ll be easier for you! 😊
Is it really necessary to add the lemon? I didn’t have any and just left it out. The dish turned out fine.
My grandma never did risotto like this but it smells nice. I don’t got Arborio so I used regular rice and it was kinda… okay. The lemon helped a lot though!
I was skeptical about mint in risotto but wow—subtle and bright. Next time I’ll add a pinch of garlic too. Great recipe.
Mint in risotto sounds kinda weird ngl 😅 but if it’s subtle like you said I might try it. One question—when do you add the lemon juice, step 5 right? (I always mess that part up.)
I was also unsure about mint, but the lemon + mint combo totally makes it feel fresh instead of “green mush.” Will definitely try your garlic idea next time!
This sounds bright and fresh—peas + mint is such a good combo. I’m trying it next week for sure.
Nice idea, but I’m skeptical it’ll taste like “risotto” without more cheese or like, more liquid? I’ll try anyway—just don’t wanna end up with mush lol.
Yes!! Pea + mint is such a winning combo. The lemon zest too—this sounds like spring in a bowl 😄
Honestly I think risotto is too much work for peas. Like, I’d rather just steam them and eat rice. 😅 But if you like stirring, this is solid.
I was skeptical about adding mint to risotto, but wow. It tastes kinda like spring. Next time I’ll add a little extra Parmesan for more depth.
I don’t get it… mint in risotto seems wrong? Like mint belongs in tea or desserts. Also mine got too thick and clumpy—maybe I wasn’t stirring enough.
Mine got a little thick before it finished cooking, I guess I didn’t add enough stock slowly. Still ended up edible though 😅
Yeah, risotto can get thick fast if the stock doesn’t stay coming in gradually. Next time, try ladling a bit more often and keep it at a steady simmer.
What’s the deal with mint in this? Seems weird but I tried it & it was worth it! Yum!
I thought mint was just for tea! But wow, you really changed my mind. This recipe sounds delicious!
Yum. Mint risotto!
Mint in risotto sounds surprisingly fresh—definitely trying this! 😄
Risotto’s too complicated for me. I prefer simpler meals. No time for stirring forever!
I get it, risotto can be a pain! You should try a one-pot dish instead, way less hassle and still tasty!
This is the second time I tried making risotto but it just never works for me… why is it so hard!?
Arborio rice is key, otherwise it turns to mush or chalk. I accidentally used long-grain once and learned my lesson. This recipe feels right.
Arborio or bust, huh. I mean I’ve done risotto with regular rice and it was fine? Maybe i just over-stirred lol. Peas + mint + lemon is a weird combo but i kinda want to try it.
Totally agree on Arborio! I once swapped it with something “similar” and it went full mush-chalk chaos 😅 This sounds spot on with the warm stock ladle-by-ladle too.