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.
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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.
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!