As the days grow longer and the air warms with the promise of spring, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the vibrant, fresh flavours of seasonal vegetables. Risotto, with its creamy texture and comforting warmth, makes an ideal dish to showcase spring’s bounty. At Gertrude Grocer, we’re excited to bring you risotto recipes packed with fresh asparagus, peas, spring onions, and other spring produce to brighten your table.
Why Risotto is Perfect for Spring
Risotto is a versatile Italian classic that combines rich creaminess with endless possibilities for seasonal ingredients. It’s comforting yet light, making it a great dish to transition from winter to spring. Using fresh vegetables from Gertrude Grocer not only enhances flavour but also adds vibrant colour and nutrients to your meal.
Essential Ingredients from Gertrude Grocer
To create the perfect spring risotto, stock your pantry and fridge with these key ingredients, all available at Gertrude Grocer:
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Arborio Rice: The classic creamy risotto rice that absorbs flavours beautifully.
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Fresh Asparagus: Tender and slightly sweet, asparagus is a springtime favourite.
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Sweet Peas: Fresh or frozen peas add a pop of colour and natural sweetness.
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Spring Onions: Mild and aromatic, perfect for garnish or sautéing.
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Parmesan Cheese: For that nutty, salty richness to finish the dish.
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Quality Stock: Vegetable or chicken stock enhances the risotto’s depth.
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Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing.
Browse all the fresh produce and pantry essentials here:
👉 Gertrude Grocer Fresh Produce & Pantry
Recipe 1: Classic Asparagus & Pea Risotto
Ingredients:
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1 cup Arborio rice
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200g fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 3cm pieces
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1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
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1 bunch spring onions, thinly sliced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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4 cups vegetable stock, kept warm
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
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Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and spring onions, sauté until soft.
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Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 2 minutes until slightly translucent.
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Gradually add warm stock, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
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After about 10 minutes, add asparagus and peas. Continue cooking and stirring until rice is creamy and cooked through (around 18-20 minutes total).
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Stir through Parmesan, season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately with extra cheese on top.
Recipe 2: Lemon & Spring Onion Risotto with Garden Herbs
Add a fresh zing to your risotto with lemon and fragrant herbs like parsley or thyme from Gertrude Grocer.
Ingredients:
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1 cup Arborio rice
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1 bunch spring onions, sliced
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Zest and juice of 1 lemon
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3 cups vegetable stock
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1/2 cup fresh parsley or thyme leaves, chopped
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
Follow the same risotto cooking method as above. Stir in lemon zest, juice, and fresh herbs just before serving for a bright springtime flavour.
Recipe 3: Creamy Pea & Mint Risotto
Mint adds a refreshing twist to classic pea risotto, perfect for spring lunches or dinners.
Ingredients:
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1 cup Arborio rice
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1 cup peas
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1 small onion, chopped
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3 cups vegetable stock
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan
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1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
Cook the risotto as usual, adding peas midway. Stir in fresh mint and Parmesan just before serving.
Tips for Making the Perfect Risotto
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Use warm stock and add it gradually for that signature creamy texture.
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Stir continuously but gently to release the rice’s starch.
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Don’t overcook – the rice should be tender yet still have a slight bite (al dente).
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Finish with good quality Parmesan cheese for richness.
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Experiment with fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables to keep your risotto exciting.
Why Shop at Gertrude Grocer?
Gertrude Grocer prides itself on sourcing high-quality, fresh, seasonal produce and pantry staples that make cooking enjoyable and delicious. From tender asparagus and vibrant peas to authentic Italian Arborio rice and Parmesan cheese, we have everything you need to create stunning spring risotto dishes.
Discover all your risotto essentials and spring vegetables here:
👉 Shop Fresh Produce & Pantry