Name: Jamie Oliver Pea And Mint Risotto Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300g (1 ½ cups) arborio rice; 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable or chicken stock, warmed; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 200g (1 cup) frozen or fresh peas; 50g (¼ cup) Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 bunch fresh mint, chopped; 1 lemon, zest and juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Extra Parmesan and fresh mint for garnish

Jamie Oliver’s Pea and Mint Risotto is a vibrant, creamy dish that’s packed with fresh flavors. The sweetness of peas combines beautifully with the freshness of mint, creating a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend lunch, this risotto is not only easy to make but also delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Bright and Fresh Flavors: The mint and peas create a refreshing combination that’s perfect for any season.
Creamy Texture: The risotto is creamy without the need for cream, thanks to the starch released from the rice.

Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is a great option for those looking for a delicious vegetarian meal.
Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it an easy dish to whip up.
Great for Entertaining: The vibrant green color and gourmet taste make it ideal for impressing guests.

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What is Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto?

Jamie Oliver’s Pea and Mint Risotto is a creamy Italian-inspired dish made with arborio rice, fresh peas, mint, and a touch of Parmesan. The result is a rich, velvety risotto that’s light and refreshing, perfect for any time of year.

Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto Ingredients

300g (1 ½ cups) arborio rice

1 liter (4 cups) vegetable or chicken stock, warmed
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

200g (1 cup) frozen or fresh peas
50g (¼ cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon butter
1 bunch fresh mint, chopped
1 lemon, zest and juice

Salt and pepper to taste
Extra Parmesan and fresh mint for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto

Step 1. Prepare the Stock

Warm the vegetable or chicken stock in a pot over low heat. Keep it warm while you prepare the risotto, as this helps the rice cook evenly.

Step 2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.

Step 3. Toast the Arborio Rice

Add the arborio rice to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly, which adds flavor.

Step 4. Gradually Add the Stock

Begin adding the warm stock one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Allow the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladle of stock. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente. You may not need all the stock.

Step 5. Add the Peas and Mint

When the rice is nearly cooked, stir in the peas and chopped mint. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peas are tender and the risotto has a creamy consistency.

Step 6. Finish with Lemon and Parmesan

Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the risotto sit for a minute before serving.

Step 7. Garnish and Serve

Spoon the risotto onto plates and garnish with extra Parmesan, a few mint leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto

Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich risotto.
Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy risotto.

Roasted Chicken: For a more substantial meal, add roasted chicken on the side.
Asparagus: Lightly steamed or grilled asparagus works well with the fresh flavors of mint and peas.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto

Warm Stock is Key: Always use warm stock to help the rice cook evenly without lowering the pan’s temperature.

Stir Constantly: Regular stirring releases the starch from the rice, giving the risotto its creamy texture.
Use Fresh Peas: If possible, use fresh peas for a sweeter, more vibrant flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Rice: Aim for an al dente texture where the rice has a slight bite in the center.

Finish with Lemon: The lemon zest and juice brighten the flavors and balance the creaminess.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto

Add Bacon: For extra flavor, stir in crispy bacon or pancetta for a salty, savory touch.
Go Vegan: Skip the butter and Parmesan, and use a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for creaminess.

Herb Twist: Experiment with other herbs like basil or parsley if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Add Spinach: Stir in some fresh spinach for extra greens and a pop of color.
Cheese Swap: Use pecorino instead of Parmesan for a slightly sharper flavor.

How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto?

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months.
Mason Jars: Store in portion-sized mason jars for easy reheating.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto Leftovers?

Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a pan, adding a splash of stock or water to loosen the risotto.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, and add a bit of water or stock for creaminess.
Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 160°C (320°F) for about 15-20 minutes until warm.

Double Boiler: Reheat in a double boiler for gentle, even heating without drying out the risotto.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 400 kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g

Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 5g

Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen peas for Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly for this risotto. Simply add them in the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they stay bright and tender.

How do I make Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto vegan?

To make this risotto vegan, replace the butter with olive oil, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to achieve a similar cheesy flavor.

Can I prepare Pea and Mint Risotto ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare risotto fresh for the best texture. However, you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat it by adding a splash of stock to restore its creamy consistency.

What type of rice should I use for Jamie Oliver Pea and Mint Risotto?

Arborio rice is the best choice for risotto due to its high starch content, which creates the creamy texture. Carnaroli or Vialone Nano rice also work well.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Pea and Mint Risotto is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. The fresh peas and mint give the dish a bright, vibrant taste, while the creamy risotto provides a comforting texture. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, and don’t forget to garnish with extra mint and Parmesan for the ultimate finish!

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