May 10, 202413 min read

"Delicious and Easy: 25 Spring Dinners' Recipes to Try Tonight!"

Spring is a season of renewal and fresh starts, and what better way to embrace this than with a delightful array of spring dinner recipes? From the light and refreshing tastes of salads and soups to hearty main dishes featuring seasonal vegetables and meats, these 25 recipes are perfect for bringing the essence of spring to your dining table. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy or a dish to impress your guests, this list has something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

Explore a variety of spring vegetables like asparagus, peas, and artichokes in your cooking.
Incorporate fresh herbs like mint, dill, and basil to enhance the flavors of your dishes.
Experiment with both light dishes such as salads and soups and hearty meals like roasted chicken or grilled lamb.
Utilize seasonal fruits like strawberries and rhubarb for a sweet end to your spring meals.
Adapt these recipes to your dietary preferences to enjoy a personalized spring dining experience.

1. Spring Pea Risotto

Spring Pea Risotto is a delightful dish that sings of spring with its vibrant green peas and fresh flavors. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with the freshness of lemon and mint, making it a perfect vegetarian dinner. It can be easily prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a convenient choice for a busy weeknight.

Here's a simple guide to making Spring Pea Risotto:

Start by sautéing onions in olive oil until they are soft.
Add Arborio rice and cook until it's translucent.
Gradually add vegetable broth, stirring continuously.
Mix in fresh peas, lemon zest, and chopped mint.
Cook until the rice is creamy and all liquid is absorbed.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

2. Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a classic, simple roasted chicken recipe that combines the zesty flavors of lemon with aromatic herbs to create a dish that is both refreshing and comforting. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, providing a foolproof way to achieve juicy and flavorful chicken every time.

Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your chicken by rinsing and patting it dry.
Seasoning: Generously season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
Lemon: Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and garlic cloves to infuse the meat with their flavors as it cooks.
Roasting: Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast until the skin is golden brown and the juices run clear.

3. Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart

This delightful tart combines the fresh flavors of spring with creamy goat cheese and crisp asparagus. Perfect for a light lunch or a starter, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare. The tart's base can be made from scratch or simplified using a pre-made puff pastry, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the puff pastry by rolling it out and fitting it into your tart pan.
Blanch the asparagus spears until they are just tender.
Layer the asparagus and crumbled goat cheese on the pastry.
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like tarragon or thyme.
Bake for about 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

4. Fresh Fava Bean Salad

This Fresh Fava Bean Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for spring. It combines the unique flavors of fresh fava beans with a medley of other ingredients to create a delightful salad. Here’s a simple way to prepare it:

Shell the fava beans from their pods.
Blanch the beans in boiling water, then quickly transfer to ice water to retain their bright green color.
Mix the cooled beans with chopped tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers.
Dress the salad with a blend of extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a touch of flake salt.
Garnish with fresh parsley to enhance the flavor.

5. Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint

Grilled lamb chops with mint offer a perfect balance of tender and juicy meat with a refreshing hint of mint. This dish is not only a staple for a spring dinner but also a delightful way to bring the classic flavors of roast leg of lamb into a quicker, more casual meal. The key to perfect grilled lamb chops lies in the marination and the grilling technique.

Marinate the lamb chops in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, fresh mint, and seasonings for at least 2 hours.
Preheat the grill to a high temperature and cook the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
Let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

6. Strawberry Spinach Salad

This delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad is a perfect blend of fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. It combines crisp spinach leaves with juicy strawberries, topped with crunchy almonds and a sweet and tangy poppy and sesame seed dressing. Ideal for a refreshing lunch or a light side dish, this salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its bright colors.

Ingredients

Fresh spinach
Strawberries, sliced
Almonds, slivered
Poppy seeds
Sesame seeds
Olive oil
Honey
Apple cider vinegar

Preparation Steps

Wash and dry the spinach leaves.
Slice the strawberries.
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar to create the dressing.
Toss the spinach and strawberries in a large bowl.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and sprinkle with almonds, poppy seeds, and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately for the best flavor.

7. Artichoke and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Artichoke and Spinach Stuffed Shells offer a delightful blend of creamy and tangy flavors encased in pasta shells, making it a perfect dish for spring dinners. Prepare the filling by mixing cheeses such as ricotta and mozzarella with chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Enhance the flavor with herbs and spices like garlic powder and basil. Stuff the mixture into boiled pasta shells, top with marinara sauce, and bake until bubbly and golden. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a visually appealing meal with its vibrant green filling peeking out of the shells.

8. Spring Vegetable Stir-Fry

Spring Vegetable Stir-Fry is a vibrant and nutritious dish that celebrates the bounty of the season. This stir-fry is not only easy to prepare but also highly versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. The key to a perfect stir-fry is to cook the vegetables quickly over high heat, ensuring they remain tender-crisp. Serve this delightful dish over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Assorted spring vegetables (asparagus, snap peas, carrots)
Soy sauce
Garlic, minced
Sesame oil
Optional: protein of your choice (tofu, shrimp, chicken)

Preparation Steps

Heat the sesame oil in a large pan over high heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
Add the spring vegetables and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in soy sauce and any additional seasonings, stir well to coat all the vegetables.
Serve hot over rice or noodles.

9. Rhubarb and Strawberry Pie

The Rhubarb and Strawberry Pie combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries to create a delightful dessert perfect for spring. This pie is often celebrated for its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation with a lattice crust. Here's a simple way to prepare it:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix chopped rhubarb and sliced strawberries with sugar, a bit of cinnamon, and flour to help thicken the filling.
Pour the fruit mixture into a pie crust, arranging some extra dough strips on top in a lattice pattern.
Bake for about 45 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.

10. Creamy Asparagus Soup

Creamy Asparagus Soup is a delightful spring dish that combines the fresh, earthy flavor of asparagus with a rich and creamy texture. This soup can be made with blended asparagus, heavy cream, and a touch of Parmesan cheese, offering a luxurious taste that is perfect for both hot and cold servings. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the asparagus to shine, making it a favorite during the spring season when asparagus is at its peak.

Ingredients: Fresh asparagus, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, vegetable broth, onions, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Preparation: Begin by sautéing onions and garlic until translucent. Add chopped asparagus and cook until tender. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then simmer. Blend the mixture until smooth, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions: Garnish with additional Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream, and serve with a crusty piece of bread.

11. Pan-Seared Salmon with Dill Sauce

Pan-seared salmon with dill sauce is a delightful spring dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh salmon with a creamy and tangy dill sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Fresh salmon fillets
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for searing
For the dill sauce:
1 cup yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
Juice of half a lemon

Preparation Steps

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the salmon fillets skin side down and sear until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side.
In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, mayonnaise, dill, garlic, and lemon juice to create the sauce.
Serve the salmon hot, topped with the dill sauce.

12. Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad

This vibrant Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad combines the earthy flavors of roasted beets with the fresh zest of citrus fruits. It's a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, making it an ideal choice for a spring meal. The salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.

Ingredients: Roasted beets, oranges, grapefruits, lemon dressing, and fresh herbs.
Preparation: Segment the citrus fruits and combine with sliced roasted beets. Drizzle with a homemade lemon dressing and garnish with herbs.

13. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Butter

Grilled asparagus with lemon butter offers a perfect blend of tangy and savory flavors, making it an ideal side dish for spring dinners. Prepare the asparagus by trimming the tough ends and tossing it with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium heat until tender and slightly charred, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan, add freshly squeezed lemon juice, and drizzle over the grilled asparagus before serving.

14. Pea and Mint Soup

This Pea and Mint Soup is a refreshing and light option perfect for spring evenings. The combination of sweet peas and aromatic mint creates a delightful flavor profile that is both invigorating and comforting. This soup can be served either hot or cold, making it versatile for varying spring temperatures.

Ingredients: Fresh or frozen peas, fresh mint, vegetable broth, onions, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Preparation: Start by sautéing onions and garlic until translucent. Add peas and broth, then simmer until peas are tender. Blend the mixture until smooth, stir in chopped mint, and season to taste.

15. Carrot and Ginger Puree

This delightful Carrot and Ginger Puree combines the sweet earthiness of carrots with the zesty kick of fresh ginger, creating a perfect side dish for spring meals. The puree is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any dinner.

Ingredients and Preparation

2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 cups milk
1 ½ tablespoons light brown sugar
Salt to taste

Boil the carrots until tender.
In a blender, combine the boiled carrots, ginger, milk, and brown sugar.
Blend until smooth.
Season with salt and serve warm.

16. Baked Halibut with Spring Vegetables

Baked Halibut with Spring Vegetables is a delightful dish that combines the mild, flaky texture of halibut with the fresh crispness of seasonal greens. Place the fish on the vegetables and season generously to enhance the flavors. This dish not only offers a savory taste but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a perfect choice for a healthy spring dinner.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange asparagus, carrots, and leeks in a baking dish.
Season the halibut with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of tarragon.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

17. Lemon and Pea Alfredo

This delightful Lemon and Pea Alfredo is a perfect spring dish that combines the freshness of peas with the zesty tang of lemon. The creamy Alfredo sauce, enriched with Parmesan cheese, coats the pasta beautifully, providing a smooth and rich flavor that complements the bright notes of lemon zest and the sweetness of green peas.

Ingredients:
Pasta
Fresh peas
Lemon zest and juice
Parmesan cheese
Cream
Garlic (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparation:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
In a saucepan, combine cream and Parmesan until the cheese melts.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and peas.
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and serve warm.

18. Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta

This delightful Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a perfect spring dish that combines the freshness of garden produce with the comfort of a hearty meal. The juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil are the stars of this recipe, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

1 lb penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
6 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
3 pints sweet cherry tomatoes
Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until they are soft and bursting.
Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture.
Add chopped basil, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
Serve warm, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

19. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey Glazed Carrots are a delightful spring side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a luscious honey glaze. Perfectly balanced with a hint of thyme and a splash of lemon, this dish brings a bright and flavorful addition to any spring meal. The carrots are sautéed until tender, ensuring they absorb the flavors of the glaze effectively.

Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Peel and slice 2 pounds of carrots.
In a skillet, melt butter and add the carrots, sautéing until they start to soften.
Add a mixture of honey, a bit of salt, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet.
Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the carrots and continue to sauté until fully tender.
Serve warm and enjoy the burst of flavors!

20. Radish and Cucumber Salad

This refreshing, healthy side dish is a perfect complement to grilled meats and fish. The crispness of radishes combined with the coolness of cucumbers makes this salad not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here’s a simple way to prepare it:

Thinly slice radishes and cucumbers.
Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
Garnish with dill to enhance the flavor.

21. Spring Onion and Cheese Frittata

A delicious Spring Onion and Cheese Frittata is a perfect quick meal for any day of the week. This dish combines the fresh, vibrant taste of spring onions with the creamy richness of cheese, offering a delightful balance of flavors. Here's a simple guide to making your own:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
Stir in thinly sliced spring onions, crumbled cheese, and any other desired ingredients like peas or herbs.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish or skillet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.

Enjoy this frittata hot, right out of the oven, or let it cool and serve it at room temperature for a light, satisfying meal.

22. Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the essence of garlic and butter together with the succulence of shrimp. Prepare the shrimp by cleaning and deveining them, ensuring they are ready to absorb the rich flavors. Melt butter in a pan and add minced garlic, letting it infuse the butter before adding the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, then finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty touch. This dish is perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner.

23. Watercress and Avocado Salad

This refreshing Watercress and Avocado Salad is a perfect blend of crisp watercress and creamy avocado, dressed lightly with avocado oil and seasoned with pink peppercorns and shallots. It's an ideal choice for a springtime meal, offering a balance of peppery and buttery flavors that invigorate the palate.

:
1 ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
½ bunch fresh watercress
1 teaspoon minced shallots
¼ teaspoon smashed pink peppercorns
1 teaspoon avocado oil (or substitute with olive oil)

24. Grilled Chicken with Spring Greens

Grilled chicken paired with vibrant spring greens makes for a refreshing and healthy meal, perfect for welcoming the warmer weather. Prepare the chicken by marinating it in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs before grilling to perfection. Serve atop a bed of mixed spring greens, such as arugula, spinach, and watercress, dressed lightly with an olive oil and lemon vinaigrette.

:
Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
Lemons
Olive oil
Fresh parsley
Garlic
Salt
Mixed spring greens (arugula, spinach, watercress)

25. Morel Mushroom and Asparagus Saute

This delightful dish combines the earthy flavors of morel mushrooms with the crisp, green freshness of asparagus. Toss halved morels and diced asparagus in a skillet with shallots, fresh thyme, and a splash of white wine, creating a simple yet elegant sauté. Perfect for a spring dinner, this recipe highlights the seasonal produce at its peak.

Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add olive oil and shallots, sautéing until translucent.
Introduce the morels and asparagus, cooking until tender.
Deglaze the pan with white wine and let simmer for a few minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.

Conclusion

As the days grow longer and the weather warms, spring brings a bounty of fresh ingredients perfect for creating delightful and refreshing dinners. The 25 spring dinner recipes we've explored offer a variety of flavors and styles, from light salads and vegetable-rich pastas to hearty grilled dishes and aromatic stews. Each recipe is designed to make the most of seasonal produce, ensuring meals that are not only delicious but also vibrant and nutritious. Whether you're cooking for a casual family meal or a special spring gathering, these recipes provide plenty of inspiration to enjoy the season's best offerings. Embrace the freshness and diversity of spring with these culinary creations, and make every dinner a celebration of renewal and taste.