Risotto Primavera Recipe: A Traditional Italian Spring Dish
Some of my favorite memories from Italy aren’t just about the places I’ve visited—but the meals I’ve shared and the people who made them. I spent my junior year of high school living with a host family in Puglia, where I first fell in love with the rhythm of Italian life.
My host mother and grandmother welcomed me into their kitchen, where I learned that cooking wasn’t just about following a recipe—it was about tradition, passion, and gathering around the table. Springtime was always special in our home. With the markets overflowing with fresh asparagus and peas, we’d spend afternoons preparing simple yet flavorful dishes like Risotto Primavera.
Even now, every time I make this classic Italian spring dish, I’m transported back to that warm, bustling kitchen, surrounded by laughter, the aroma of simmering broth, and the love of my Italian family.
And the best part? You don’t have to wait for your next trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast—you can bring this dish to life in your kitchen!
What is Risotto Primavera?
Risotto Primavera is a traditional Italian spring dish made with creamy Arborio rice and fresh seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus, peas, and artichokes. The name Primavera means “spring” in Italian, reflecting the vibrant flavors of the season.
This dish is popular throughout Italy—from northern regions like Lombardy to the coastal towns of the Amalfi Coast—and is a staple of Italian home cooking. The secret to its creamy, velvety texture comes from the slow-stirring technique that releases starch from the rice, making it both comforting and elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Risotto Primavera Recipe
Made with fresh, seasonal ingredients – This dish is all about using what’s at its peak in spring, just like they do in Italy!
Creamy, comforting, and flavorful – The slow-cooking method creates a velvety risotto packed with flavor.
A taste of travel – Even if you can’t be in Italy right now, this classic Italian dish brings you closer to la dolce vita.
Risotto Primavera Recipe: A Taste of Italy at Home
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups Arborio rice (short-grain Italian rice, essential for risotto)
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (kept warm for best absorption)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil (use high-quality extra virgin for authentic flavor; you can also use butter if you prefer)
2 cloves garlic, minced (adds richness and depth to the dish)
½ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
1 cup asparagus, trimmed and chopped
½ cup fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
½ cup artichoke hearts, chopped (optional but adds a nice texture and flavor)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (freshly grated for best taste)
1 tbsp butter (for extra creaminess at the end)
Zest of 1 lemon (adds brightness and freshness to the dish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Then, stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and toast it for about 1 minute, allowing it to absorb the oil and develop a nutty aroma.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until absorbed, stirring continuously.
- Add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until each addition is absorbed before adding more.
- When the rice is almost done (about 15 minutes in), stir in the asparagus, peas, and artichokes. Continue stirring and adding broth until the rice is creamy and tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter, Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Bringing the Flavors of Italy Home
Every time I cook Risotto Primavera, I’m reminded of my time in Puglia—the joy of learning in the kitchen, the simple pleasure of fresh ingredients, and the love that goes into every meal.
Whether you’re reminiscing about past travels, dreaming of an Italian getaway, or simply craving a light and flavorful dish, this classic risotto recipe is the perfect way to bring a taste of Italy into your home.
If you’re ready to experience Italy firsthand, join me this November as we explore the Amalfi Coast, cooking with local chefs, dining by the sea, and making memories that will last a lifetime. There’s so much delicious travel to experience.