As the weather begins to warm up and the flowers start to bloom, it’s the perfect time to refresh your recipe collection with some new dishes that capture the fresh flavors of spring. Here are ten recipes to try this season that are sure to impress your taste buds and your friends and family.
Strawberry and Feta Salad
This colorful salad combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the tanginess of feta cheese and the crunch of almonds. To make it, simply toss together mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted almonds in a bowl. Dress it with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
Asparagus and Parmesan Risotto
Spring is the season for asparagus, and this creamy risotto is the perfect way to showcase the fresh, green spears. Start by cooking diced onions in butter until they are soft and translucent, then add Arborio rice and stir until it’s coated with the butter. Add white wine and simmer until it’s almost evaporated. Slowly add chicken or vegetable broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until the rice is al dente. Finally, stir in sautéed asparagus and grated Parmesan cheese.
Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken
Roasting a whole chicken is a great way to feed a crowd, and this recipe takes it to the next level with the bright flavors of lemon and herbs. Rub a whole chicken with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Roast in the oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through. Serve with roasted potatoes and a simple green salad.
Spring Vegetable Tart
This savory tart is filled with a medley of fresh spring vegetables like asparagus, peas, and leeks. Start by pre-baking a store-bought pie crust until it’s golden brown. Then, sauté sliced leeks in butter until they’re soft and fragrant. Add asparagus and peas and cook until they’re tender. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and top with crumbled goat cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
Fresh mangoes are a great way to add a tropical twist to your spring meals. Combine diced mango with diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and lime juice to make a bright and tangy salsa. Season a salmon fillet with salt and pepper and grill until it’s cooked through. Serve the salmon topped with the mango salsa and a side of steamed rice.
Spring Vegetable Frittata
A frittata is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and create a delicious, satisfying meal. For a spring twist, use fresh asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and peas. Simply sauté the vegetables in a cast-iron skillet until they’re tender, then pour in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. This frittata is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Strawberry and Spinach Salad
Strawberries are at their peak in the spring, and this salad is the perfect way to showcase their sweet and juicy flavor. Toss fresh spinach leaves with sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and candied pecans. Drizzle with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. This salad is the perfect side dish or light lunch.
Mint Pea Soup
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, bright green peas, and this soup is a great way to showcase their flavor. Start by sautéing chopped onion and garlic in butter until they’re soft and translucent. Add fresh or frozen peas, chicken or vegetable broth, and a handful of fresh mint leaves. Simmer until the peas are tender, then puree until smooth. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped fresh mint.
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan
Asparagus is one of the quintessential spring vegetables, and this recipe brings out its natural sweetness and crunch. Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until they’re tender and lightly charred. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
Rhubarb Crisp
Rhubarb is a tart and tangy spring fruit that’s perfect for baking. For this recipe, chop fresh rhubarb and toss it with sugar, flour, and a pinch of cinnamon. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with a crumble made from flour, brown sugar, oats, and butter. Bake until the rhubarb is tender and the crumble is golden brown. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
These recipes are all perfect for celebrating the fresh, bright flavors of spring. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing soup, a crunchy and savory vegetable dish, or a sweet and tangy dessert, these recipes have got you covered. Enjoy!