Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it's translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables: Toss in the diced bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Cook the Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice, letting it toast for 1-2 minutes. This helps to develop its flavor.
Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Stir in Peas: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the green peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.