Mediterranean Orzo Risotto with Artichokes and Peas | Light&Flavorful #SpringCooking #ArtichokeLove

ORZO RISOTTO WITH ARTICHOKES & PEAS | A Fresh & Mediterranean Spring Dish

A deliciously light and bright spring risotto made with orzo, fresh peas, and artichokes. A beautiful vegetarian dish that pairs perfectly with fish, chicken, or even just a crisp green salad!

Ingredients (serves 4):

400 g peas (fresh or frozen)

2 large artichokes (peeled and kept in lemon water)

250 g orzo pasta

1 small onion (very finely chopped)

A handful of fresh dill (finely chopped)

1/3 cup olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Approx. 3 cups (600–700 ml) hot water (add more if needed)

Salt to taste

(Optional) 2–3 tbsp grated parmesan or aged Turkish kashar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Chop the Onion:
Finely dice the small onion — we want the flavor, not the texture, in the final dish.

Prep the Artichokes:
Slice the artichokes into 1 cm thick pieces and keep them in lemon water until use.

Sauté the Onion:
Heat 1/3 cup olive oil in a deep pan or skillet. Add the onion and sauté over low heat for about 4–5 minutes.

Add Balsamic Vinegar:
Stir in 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar once the onion is soft and translucent.

Sauté the Artichokes:
Add the sliced artichokes and sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes without adding any water.

Add First Water:
Add 1/4 cup hot water to the pan and cook until the artichokes begin to soften.

Toast the Orzo:
Stir in the 250 g orzo and toast it for 3–4 minutes on low heat.

Cook Like Risotto:
Start adding the hot water gradually — first about 270 ml (1 cup+). Stir and cook uncovered.
Add the second batch of water (about 200 ml), and continue to cook until the orzo is tender.

Add the Peas:
Add 400 g cooked peas with the final bit of water. If your peas are soft, you can add them later to prevent overcooking.

Final Checks:
Once the liquid is absorbed, stir and check the orzo for doneness. Cook for another 2 minutes without additional water if needed.

Finishing Touches:
Add chopped dill and optionally grated cheese. Stir gently, cover, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy! 🌱