Delicious Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto Bliss

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s something truly enchanting about the vibrant green hues of this Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto. Whenever I stir this dish, the fresh aroma of garlic, mint, and lemon zests fills my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. I discovered this gem during a week of relentless takeout evenings, craving a comforting meal that would brighten my dinner table. What began as a quest for something wholesome resulted in a creamy risotto that even my most fast-food-loyal friends can t resist.

Not only does this risotto burst with flavor, but it also brings a nutritional punch thanks to the garden-fresh ingredients and a delightful homemade spinach pesto. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends, this dish promises to impress without keeping you tied to the stove for hours. Grab your apron, and let s transform those simple pantry ingredients into a lush, irresistible s bowl of risotto that will make you rethink your dinner choices!

Why will you love this Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto?

Vibrant Colors: The stunning green hues not only make this risotto eye-catching but also signal a wealth of nutrients.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this dish suits all cooking levels, turning even novice chefs into risotto pros.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, fresh mint, and zesty lemon elevate the taste profile to new heights.
Nutritious Goodness: Packed with spinach and peas, this recipe is a true health boost disguised as comfort food.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this risotto is sure to become a new favorite.
Time-Saving: Minimal hands-on time means you can enjoy delicious homemade food without hours of effort get ready to impress while keeping it easy!

Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto Ingredients

Let s gather what you ll need to create this vibrant dish!

For the Risotto Base
250 g arborio rice essential for that creamy texture.
2 onions adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
4 cloves garlic essential for aromatic richness.
3 tbsp white wine this enhances the flavors beautifully.
4 cups vegetable stock keep it warm for the best results.
2 tbsp olive oil a base for sautéing the onions and garlic.
1 tsp sea salt enhances all the wonderful flavors.
Lots of black pepper for a touch of warmth and spice.

For the Green Goodness
160 g spinach packed with nutrients and vibrant color.
2 cups peas lends sweetness and bright green hues.
3 tbsp nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Juice 1/2 lemon for a zesty brightness to the dish.
Zest 1 lemon enhances the freshness with aromatic oils.
Big handful mint refreshes the taste and complements the peas.
1 tbsp tamari a savory boost to umami flavors.

For the Spinach Pesto
1 cup spinach pesto homemade or store-bought works wonders!
2 cups frozen peas a hassle-free option that holds flavor.
1 cup frozen broad beans bring a hearty texture to the mix.
2 tbsp olive oil enriches the pesto for silky consistency.
Big pinch sea salt elevates the overall taste.

With these vibrant ingredients, you re on your way to indulging in a delicious Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto that your whole family will adore!

How to Make Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto

1. Prepare the Pesto: Add all pesto ingredients to a food processor or blender. Blitz until you reach your desired consistency, balancing between creamy and textured for a delightful flavor punch.

2. Sauté the Onions: In a large pan over low to medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onions and fry for 8-10 minutes until they re soft and translucent. This will form the aromatic base of your risotto.

3. Add Garlic and Rice: Stir in the sliced garlic and fry for an additional minute. Next, add the rinsed arborio rice, stirring for 1 minute before pouring in the white wine. This will create a beautiful layer of flavor.

4. Incorporate Vegetable Stock: Gradually add 1 cup of vegetable stock at a time, stirring constantly until all the liquid is absorbed. This process is vital for achieving that creamy texture we love in a risotto.

5. Mix in the Vegetables: Fold in the spinach pesto, frozen peas, and frozen broad beans. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the veggies to warm up, then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, mint, remaining olive oil, tamari, nutritional yeast, sea salt, and black pepper for a delightful burst of flavor.

6. Finish the Risotto: At this stage, your risotto is ready to serve! For an extra creamy texture, simply turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to deepen the flavors.

7. Garnish and Serve: Add any additional toppings or garnishes to your liking, whether it s a sprinkle of extra nutritional yeast or a few fresh mint leaves for that beautiful finishing touch.

Optional: Top with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto

Fridge: Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable stock to restore its creamy texture.

Freezer: Freeze individual portions of the risotto in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Reheating: To reheat, add a small amount of vegetable stock or water and warm on low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. This will help retain the delicious creaminess of the Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto.

Tips for the Best Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto

Creamy Texture: Always add stock gradually, waiting for each cup to be fully absorbed before the next. This technique ensures your risotto achieves that signature creamy texture.

Perfectly Cooked Rice: Use arborio rice for a rich, creamy risotto. Avoid rinsing it before cooking; you want the starch for that lovely creaminess.

Flavor Boost: As you stir, add a splash of white wine after the garlic but before the stock. It beautifully elevates the dish s flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste.

Pesto Consistency: For the spinach pesto, blend until smooth, but leave some texture for that homemade feel. Adjust the garlic and lemon to suit your taste!

Seasoning: Taste as you go, especially towards the end. The balance of sea salt and black pepper is key to creating an irresistible Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto.

Resting Period: For a creamier risotto, let it sit covered off the heat for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!

• Vegan: Omit the cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Gluten-Free: Swap white wine for extra vegetable stock or a splash of vinegar in the risotto.
• Protein-Packed: Add cooked chickpeas or lentils for a hearty, protein-rich meal.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a touch of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a different flavor note.
• Nut-Free: Leave out hazelnuts and pine nuts, or use sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts.
• Creamier Texture: Stir in a dollop of coconut cream or a splash of plant-based milk at the end for extra creaminess.
• Rainbow Twist: Mix in diced bell peppers or zucchini for a burst of color and added vegetables.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto are perfect for meal prep! You can make the spinach pesto and the risotto base up to 24 hours in advance. For best results, prepare the pesto and store it in an airtight container, covering the surface with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning. The risotto can be assembled (without the final stirring in of the greens and seasonings) and kept in the fridge. When you re ready to serve, simply reheat the risotto gently while adding in the spinach pesto, frozen peas, and broad beans, then finish with lemon juice, zest, mint, and tamari for a bowl that s just as creamy and vibrant as if it were made fresh! This means you can have a delightful dinner ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights.

What to Serve with Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto?

Looking to create a delightful dining experience that complements the vibrant flavors of this creamy risotto?

• Garlic Bread: Toasted to perfection, it s the ideal crispy side to scoop up the risotto s creamy goodness. The aromatic garlic butter pairs beautifully with the fresh pesto.

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing fusion of greens, avocado, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette adds a light crunch, perfectly balancing the risotto s silky texture.

• Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Tender and juicy, this protein source infuses a tangy, savory element that pairs seamlessly with the risotto s brightness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables caramelized until golden bring an earthy sweetness that elevates any dish a perfect medley alongside your green risotto.

• Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors, making each bite a delight that dances on your palate.

• Lemon Sorbet: Serve as a light palate cleanser this sweet-tart treat refreshes the senses between bites and complements the lemon notes in your risotto.

Each of these options brings out the rich, comforting flavors of the Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto, ensuring your meal feels complete and fulfilling.

Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best spinach?
Look for fresh spinach with vibrant green leaves that are crisp and free from dark spots or wilting. If you re using frozen spinach, ensure it s properly stored and not freezer burned; it should not have any discoloration or ice crystals.

What s the best way to store leftover risotto?
Store any leftover risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable stock for added creaminess and stir gently over low heat until warmed through.

Can I freeze this Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions of the risotto in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To do this, let it cool completely after cooking, then transfer to the containers you ll be using. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of vegetable stock to revive its creamy texture.

I m having trouble with my risotto being too dry. What can I do?
If your risotto turns out too dry, don t worry! Simply add a bit more warm vegetable stock while stirring gently. This will help incorporate some moisture back into the dish. Remember to add stock gradually as you cook; it helps achieve that creamy consistency we love!

Is this recipe suitable for someone with nut allergies?
While this Green Risotto with Spinach & Pea Pesto does contain hazelnuts and pine nuts, you can easily make it nut-free! I recommend substituting the nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the allergens.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You re in luck! This recipe is already dairy-free thanks to nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just ensure that your vegetable stock and any additional ingredients (like pesto) are also free from dairy. Feel free to customize it based on your dietary preferences!