This spring risotto with asparagus, peas, and lemon is easy to make and so deliciously creamy! Utilizing fresh spring produce, this asparagus and pea risotto makes the perfect main or side dish all spring long.
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Instructions
Bring a medium size pot of water to a boil. While the water is coming to a boil, fill a medium size bowl with 1 1/2 cups of ice and fill halfway with cold water, set aside. Once the water has come to a boil, add in the chopped asparagus and fresh peas (if using frozen peas, do not add to the boiling water). Boil for 2 minutes, then using a spider or mesh strainer, immediately transfer to the ice bath. Set aside.
In a high walled skillet over medium heat, add the butter. Once melted and bubbling, add in the shallots, garlic, fresh tarragon, a pinch of kosher salt, and fresh ground black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until shallots begin to soften. Add in the arborio rice and toast for 2 minutes, by moving it around the skillet. Add in the white wine and allow to reduce by half, about 3 minutes.
Slowly begin adding the broth one ladle at a time, continuously stirring. Do not add another ladle until the liquid has absorbed into the rice. Continue doing this until risotto is al dente and no longer absorbs liquid, about 16-18 minutes. Should be about 3 ½-4 cups of broth. You do not want it to be watery, risotto should be al dente.
Once the risotto is done absorbing the broth, add in freshly grated parmesan cheese, the crème fraîche and stir to combine. Add in the blanched asparagus, peas, and the lemon zest. Stir until fully incorporated in the risotto. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Risotto is best served fresh and right away. I like to serve with extra fresh parmesan over the top.
Notes
Asparagus
When picking asparagus you want to select firm and straight stalks, with the tips closed and compact. Trim the ends of the asparagus off, these are hard and unpleasant tasting. You can snap the ends off with your hands, the asparagus will snap at the natural point where the toughness begins.
Peas
You can use fresh or frozen peas in this recipe. If using frozen peas, you do not have to blanch them with the asparagus.
Risotto
When making risotto you want to use a short-grain rice, I prefer to use arborio. Due to it’s starchy nature, it absorbs less liquid giving you the perfect consistency for risotto.
Ensure broth is warmed before adding it to the risotto
Add 1 ladle at a time, continuously stirring until liquid is absorbed then repeat.
Risotto should be al dente when done cooking, not mushy.
Continuously stirring allows the rice to cook evenly, keeps it from burning, and gives the risotto that creamy velvety texture.