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Risotto Primavera with Spring Vegetables (Classic Creamy Recipe)

A classic, creamy risotto finished with sautéed spring vegetables, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Comforting, colorful, and perfect for a relaxed dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Course: Main Course

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil divided
  • ½ cup white onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup frozen peas
  • ½ cup carrots finely chopped
  • cup asparagus cut into 1-inch pieces
  • cup yellow squash finely chopped
  • cup zucchini finely chopped
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 4 –5 cups warm chicken or vegetable broth divided
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • 2 tsp fresh lemon zest
  • 3 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, peas, carrots, asparagus, yellow squash, and zucchini. Season with salt and black pepper.
  2. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are crisp-tender and lightly golden, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Add the remaining olive oil and the Arborio rice to the skillet. Toast the rice for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and pour in the white wine. Deglaze the skillet, gently scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook until the wine is fully absorbed.
  5. Add ½ cup of the warm broth to the skillet. Stir continuously until the liquid is absorbed, about 4–5 minutes. Continue adding broth ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to absorb before adding the next, until the rice is tender and creamy.
  6. Stir in the reserved vegetables, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Cook for 1–2 minutes, just until heated through.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Season with additional salt and black pepper, if needed. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.