With the fading out of rainy winter gloom, and the welcomed sight of bright spring weather, comes a blossoming of tender, new produce native only to these early spring days. Asparagus, baby greens, and strawberries abound and are near their peak in quality. Enjoy the bounty of spring with these five spring recipes that either take advantage of spring’s tasty morsels, or suit a warm spring gathering outdoors.
1. Oven Roasted Asparagus with Lemon and Leeks
Photo © Kimberley K. Eggleston
Asparagus is one of the first crops of produce to debut in the spring. It makes an attractive, low calorie spring side dish, and really is easy to prepare. When you are shopping, look for plump, firm spears with tightly closed tips, and a bright green color to assure you are getting the freshest selection.
2. Fresh Berry and Granola Parfait
Photo © Kimberley K. Eggleston
Spring is the time for plump, juicy strawberries to make their grand entrance. In this parfait, they bask in the spotlight, accompanied perfectly by crunchy granola and smooth vanilla yogurt. Be sure to keep at least one fresh berry as a pretty garnish for your glass.
3. Spinach Omelet
Photo © Kimberley K. Eggleston
Enjoy fresh, baby green spinach married with sweet onions and smooth mozzarella in this low calorie spinach omelet. It is well-suited for an extra special breakfast, or for a late morning brunch.
4. Salmon with Citrus-Cilantro Salsa
Photo © Kimberley K. Eggleston
The fresh cilantro and oranges compliment each other so beautifully, creating a light and fresh topping for this peppery salmon. It takes just a short amount of time to combine the ingredients for the salsa, so this dish comes together really easily. If you are having a spring barbeque, try grilling the salmon outdoors.
5. Spicy Black Bean and Corn Salsa
Photo © Kimberley K. Eggleston
This salsa just says “celebration.” A perfect dish for an outdoors picnic or barbeque, it can easily be made ahead, and transported to wherever your adventures take you. The lime juice gives it a fresh, crisp flare that will keep you coming back for more.
