Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

For the pea risotto

5 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 shallot, chopped fine
1½ cups Arborio rice
½ cup dry white wine
5 slices of prosciutto cut in small pieces
1 cup fresh peas, blanched
1 cup parmesan cheese
Salt
Freshly ground pepper

For the basil & mint butter

2 tablespoons butter, softened
2 cloves garlic
1 shallot, chopped superfine
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
1 cup basil leaves
¼ cup mint leaves
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt

DIRECTIONS

For the pea risotto

In a medium sized saucepot heat chicken broth until warm and simmer while making risotto. In a separate medium saucepot over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook shallot until translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add prosciutto and cook until crispy. Add rice and cook and stir for 1 minute. Next, add 1 cup liquid, reduce liquid and then add another ½ cup liquid every 7 minutes or so until rice is almost cooked through, about 20. Add peas and cook 5 minutes more. Remove from heat, and finish with cheese, and basil & mint butter. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

For the basil & mint butter

In a small bowl, combine all ingredients and use to finish risotto.