Risi e Bisi (Green Pea Risotto) Recipe

A classic dish from Venice, Risi e Bisi sits somewhere between a risotto and a soup—creamy, fresh, and bright with peas and a hint of lemon. It’s simple, comforting, and comes together in under an hour.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 cup Arborio rice

• 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas

• 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock (kept warm)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the base
   In a large pan, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Toast the rice
   Add the Arborio rice and stir for 1–2 minutes until the grains are lightly coated and slightly translucent around the edges.

3. Deglaze with wine
   Pour in the white wine and cook until it is mostly absorbed, stirring continuously.

4. Cook the risotto
   Add warm stock one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to absorb before adding more. Continue this process for about 15–18 minutes.

5. Add peas
   Stir in the green peas halfway through the cooking process so they remain fresh and vibrant.

6. Finish creamy texture
   Once the rice is tender but slightly firm in the center, remove from heat. Stir in the remaining butter, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest.

7. Season and serve
   Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Tips

• Keep stirring to release the starch and achieve a creamy consistency.

• Do not overcook the rice; it should be “al dente.”

• Adjust the thickness—add more stock if you prefer a looser, soup-like texture.

Flavor Profile

This dish offers a delicate balance of sweet peas, creamy rice, savory cheese, and bright citrus notes, making it both comforting and refreshing.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot as a main dish or alongside grilled vegetables or roasted chicken for a complete meal.