Baked Risotto with Peas and Parmesan by Jamie Oliver

Baked Risotto with Peas and Parmesan is a comforting and creamy dish that combines the richness of risotto with the sweetness of peas and the nutty, salty flavor of Parmesan cheese. Unlike traditional stovetop risotto, Jamie Oliver’s baked version is a hands-off approach, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a delicious side dish to accompany grilled meats or seafood.

Ingredients:

• For the Risotto:

  • 300g (10.5 oz) Arborio rice

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 750ml (3 cups) vegetable or chicken stock

  • 200ml (3/4 cup) dry white wine

  • 150g (5.3 oz) frozen peas

  • 100g (3.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a large baking dish with olive oil or butter and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.

3. Prepare the Risotto:

   • Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice is well-coated in the oil and begins to turn translucent at the edges.

4. Add the Wine and Stock:

   • Pour in the white wine and allow it to cook off for 1-2 minutes. Then, gradually add the vegetable or chicken stock, stirring occasionally to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Bake the Risotto:

   • Transfer the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

6. Finish the Risotto:

   • Remove the dish from the oven, stir in the frozen peas, butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Check the seasoning and adjust with more salt or pepper if necessary.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the baked risotto warm, garnished with fresh parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

8. Jamie Oliver’s Baked Risotto with Peas and Parmesan is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight when you want a comforting, creamy meal with minimal effort. Unlike traditional risotto that requires constant stirring, this baked version is hands-off and still delivers all the flavor and creaminess you love in a risotto. The sweetness of the peas paired with the nutty Parmesan makes every bite a delight.

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   Why You’ll Love This Baked Risotto with Peas and Parmesan

   • Minimal Effort: Skip the stirring and let the oven do the work. This is an easy-to-make dish that requires little attention.

   • Comforting and Creamy: The Parmesan and butter give the risotto a rich, creamy texture that’s both comforting and satisfying.

   • Versatile: You can add your favorite ingredients such as mushrooms, chicken, or even roasted vegetables to make this risotto your own.

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   Health Benefits of Baked Risotto with Peas and Parmesan

   1. Peas: Peas are rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins like vitamin C and K, promoting digestive and heart health.

   2. Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds calcium and protein, which supports bone health and muscle function.

   3. Olive Oil: Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that are essential for reducing inflammation and promoting heart health.

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   FAQs

   1. Can I make this risotto ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the risotto ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving. If you make it in advance, you may need to add a splash of stock when reheating.

   2. Can I add more vegetables to the risotto?
   Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

   3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino, Grana Padano, or even cheddar, though the flavor will change slightly.

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   Conclusion

   This Baked Risotto with Peas and Parmesan by Jamie Oliver is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy texture, sweet peas, and nutty Parmesan, it’s a comforting meal that doesn’t require a lot of effort. Make it for dinner tonight, and enjoy a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!