Risotto with Fresh Peas and Mint, Crunchy Prosciutto, and Almond Sauce

Risotto with Fresh Peas and Mint, Crunchy Prosciutto, and Almond Sauce

Indulge in the delicate flavors of this exquisite risotto featuring vibrant green peas, fragrant mint, and a delightful almond sauce. Topped with crunchy prosciutto, this dish is a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for more. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of this creamy and delicious creation.

Ingredients:

For the Green Pea Puree:

  • 2.5 kg frozen green peas
  • 150 g fresh garlic, chopped
  • 150 g olive oil
  • 20 fresh mint leaves
  • 10 parsley leaves
  • 120 g baby spinach
  • Vegetable stock, as needed
  • 200 g olive oil (for blending)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mint Oil:

  • 50 g mint leaves, blanched
  • 350 ml olive oil

For the Rice:

  • Vialone Nano rice (quantity as desired)
  • Olive oil
  • Spring onions, chopped
  • White wine
  • Vegetable stock

For the Crunchy Prosciutto:

  • Sliced prosciutto

For the Almond Sauce:

  • 2 liters unsweetened almond milk
  • 100 g shallots, finely chopped
  • 200 ml white wine
  • 50 g butter
  • 1 tsp corn starch
  • Lemon juice, to taste
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Prepare the Green Pea Puree:
    • Blanch the green peas in salted boiling water, reserving 500 g for later use.
    • In a pan, cook the remaining peas with olive oil and chopped garlic over medium heat for 10 minutes.
    • Puree the cooked peas with vegetable stock, mint leaves, parsley leaves, spinach, and olive oil until smooth.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  2. Make the Mint Oil:
    • In a blender or food processor, combine blanched mint leaves and olive oil.
    • Blend on high speed for 1 minute or until the mint is fully incorporated.
    • Allow the mixture to rest for 20 minutes.
    • Strain the oil through a fine chinois to remove any solids. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Rice:
    • Precook the desired amount of Vialone Nano rice with olive oil and chopped spring onions.
    • Deglaze the rice with white wine.
    • Add vegetable stock, allowing the rice to absorb it gradually while stirring.
    • Once the rice is cooked al dente, remove it from heat and let it cool immediately.
  4. Make the Crunchy Prosciutto:
    • Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
    • Place the sliced prosciutto on a silicone mat and bake in the oven for 10 minutes.
    • Allow the prosciutto to cool.
  5. Prepare the Almond Sauce:
    • In a saucepan, cook the finely chopped shallots with butter until transparent.
    • Add white wine and let it evaporate.
    • Pour in the unsweetened almond milk and let it reduce by half.
    • Thicken the sauce by mixing 100 g of water with 1 teaspoon of corn starch and adding it to the sauce.
    • Puree the sauce, adding lemon juice to taste, and season with salt and white pepper.
    • Strain the sauce to remove any lumps. Set aside.
  6. Assemble and Serve:
    • In a serving dish, spread a layer of the cooked Vialone Nano rice.
    • Spoon the green pea puree on top of the