Broad Bean & Pea Risotto
Broad Bean & Pea Risotto is a creamy, comforting Italian rice dish that highlights the fresh, sweet flavors of spring legumes. It's made by slowly stirring Arborio or Carnaroli rice with vegetable or chicken broth, finished with a generous mix of tender broad beans (fava beans) and green peas, often with Parmesan cheese and a touch of mint. This vibrant, seasonal variation is a beloved staple in Northern Italian home cooking.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This risotto is primarily a carbohydrate-rich dish from the rice, but it also offers a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber from the broad beans and peas. A typical serving provides a balanced mix of nutrients including vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like iron and folate, with a rough calorie estimate of 400-500 per generous serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 50 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 55 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
| Folate | 120 µg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin K | 25 µg |
| Zinc | 2.5 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this dish embodies the Italian philosophy of 'cucina povera' (peasant cooking), transforming simple, seasonal ingredients into a luxurious meal. Nutritionally, the combination of rice and legumes creates a complete protein, making it a particularly satisfying and wholesome vegetarian option.
