I sometimes like to switch it up and use pearl barley in my risotto recipes. Not only does it require less stirring than arborio rice, but it is also packed with fibre and great for your digestive and gut health. It also adds a lovely nuttiness to the finished risotto which I really like. This spring greens barley risotto recipe is perfect for this time of year. It’s full of lovely spring vegetables which are either in season or just coming into season. The toasted sunflower seeds add texture and crunch and a delicious classic basil pesto completes the dish. This is a delicious vegetarian main course, but would be equally tasty topped with your choice of protein (a panfried chicken breast or piece of white fish would be the ideal accompaniment).

This is a rich dinner which would be perfect for a dinner party or comforting Sunday meal. The crispy pork crackling with soft pork flesh stuffed with plenty of herbs, orange and garlic is so easy to do and so delicious. Paired with a creamy buttery risotto full of plenty of salty, nutty parmesan and the slight hint of floral saffron goes so well and some spicy nduja butter brings it all together.

Everyone loves risotto and butternut squash and chorizo is a classic combination. However, with the little twists I have made to my recipe, this is a risotto with a difference. The crispy sage, paprika hazelnuts and amaretti all add texture and more layers of flavour. The crushed amaretti biscuit on top is a classic Italian addition which I personally love. The little hint of sweetness works so well with the squash, while the saltiness from the parmesan and spice from the nuts and chorizo balances everything out.

This seafood risotto recipe is holiday on a plate. The key to making this luxurious and special risotto is making your own shellfish stock using the shells from the seafood.