You know that feeling? You walk into the farmer’s market, eyes wide, wallet trembling, and leave with a mountain of gorgeous greens and veggies… and then you stare into your fridge wondering what on earth to do with it all.
We’ve got you covered with 16 delicious dinner ideas that will transform your market haul into culinary masterpieces, plus 4 tried-and-true favorites to keep in your back pocket.
1. Zucchini Noodles With Pesto
Who needs pasta when you have zucchini noodles? This dish is a fresh twist on an Italian classic.
Pesto, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan complete the magic. Great for a light, healthy dinner.
2. Spring Vegetable Stir-Fry
Stir-frying is like a dance party for your vegetables! Asparagus, bell peppers, and carrots get groovy in a hot wok.
A splash of soy sauce ties it all together. Kids love it too!
3. Asparagus And Pea Risotto
Risotto isn’t just rice; it’s an experience. Creamy, dreamy, and packed with asparagus and peas.
A hint of mint adds freshness. Lemon zest tops it off.
4. Carrot Ginger Soup
Soup for the soul! This carrot ginger number is warming and invigorating.
Coconut cream adds a silky finish. It’s like a hug in a bowl. Sometimes, that’s all we need!
5. Spring Pea And Leek Soup
The sweetness of peas combined with the gentle onion-like flavor of leeks creates a comforting and nutritious soup. A hint of mint adds a refreshing finish.
This soup is easy to prepare and great for those cool spring evenings when you need a warm and soothing meal.
6. Radish And Arugula Salad
Salads can be fun! Crunchy radishes meet peppery arugula in this delightful salad.
Sunflower seeds add nuttiness. It’s the perfect side or light meal.
7. Minted Pea And Ricotta Tart
The humble pea takes center stage in this delightful tart. Imagine a crisp, flaky pastry crust filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta and garden peas.
Fresh mint leaves add a burst of flavor that evokes the first days of spring. It’s elegant yet simple!
8. Lemon Dill Salmon With Spring Vegetables
Salmon pairs beautifully with the flavors of lemon and dill. This dish features a perfectly grilled salmon fillet, drizzled with a zesty lemon dill sauce.
It’s served alongside a medley of spring vegetables that add both color and nutrition.
9. Artichoke And Leek Galette
This galette is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. Artichokes and leeks come together in a flaky, buttery crust that envelops their savory flavors.
Did you know? Artichokes are actually a type of thistle, and were considered a delicacy in ancient Roman cuisine.
10. Honey Glazed Carrot And Fennel Roast
A match made in culinary heaven. When roasted with honey, they transform into a sweet and aromatic side dish that complements any main course.
The natural sugars in the vegetables caramelize beautifully. This dish captures the essence of spring.
11. Savory Herb and Cheese Scones With Chive Butter
For a unique twist on the traditional dinner roll, these savory scones are a must-try. Paired with a dollop of homemade chive butter, they are an indulgent addition to any spring dinner table.
The scones are flaky and tender, with the herbs and cheese creating a wonderful depth of flavor.
12. Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken With Spring Vegetables
This dish is not just a feast for the eyes but a celebration of spring produce. Fresh herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, infuse the chicken with a fragrant aroma.
The vegetables, roasted to perfection alongside the chicken, absorb the savory juices and herbs.
13. Spring Pea And Mint Risotto
With each spoonful of this creamy risotto, you’ll taste the essence of spring. Sweet peas and refreshing mint come together in a harmonious blend.
The rice is cooked slowly, absorbing the flavors of vegetable broth and white wine.
14. Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Chimichurri
Sink your teeth into these succulent lamb chops, perfectly grilled to a tender finish. The secret to their irresistible flavor lies in the mint chimichurri.
It’s made from fresh mint, garlic, and a hint of lemon, complements the rich taste of lamb brilliantly.
15. Stuffed Bell Peppers With Quinoa And Spring Vegetables
Colorful bell peppers serve as the perfect vessels for this nutritious and flavorful stuffing. Filled with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and fresh herbs, they offer a wholesome meal.
As you cut into the pepper, the stuffing reveals its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, inviting you to enjoy every bite.
16. Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin With Spring Greens
This pork tenderloin is roasted to perfection, offering a juicy bite each time. The crust is made from a blend of herbs and breadcrumbs.
Paired with fresh spring greens, like arugula and spinach, this dish is both nutritious and elegant. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish.
17. Lemon Thyme Chicken With Roasted Radishes
The delightful pairing of lemon and thyme brings out a fresh and aromatic flavor in chicken, making it a timeless favorite. This dish highlights the subtle sweetness of roasted radishes.
The combination is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
18. Springtime Pesto Pasta With Baby Arugula
Celebration of greenery on your plate. The pesto, made from fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts, coats every piece of pasta with its rich flavor.
Adding baby arugula introduces a peppery bite, perfectly balancing the creaminess of the pesto. Basil is considered a symbol of love in Italy.
19. Sautéed Garlic Scapes With Cherry Tomatoes
Garlic scapes are a springtime gem waiting to be discovered. When sautéed with juicy cherry tomatoes, they create flavorful side dish.
The combination of sweetness and mild heat invigorates the palate. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
20. Herb-Marinated Grilled Artichokes
Unique and delightful taste of spring. The grilling process brings out a smoky flavor, while the marinade adds a zesty kick.
Each bite is a journey through layers of texture and flavor. Artichokes are one of the oldest known cultivated vegetables.