11 Spring Dinner Recipes

As the weather warms up, I’m excited to share my favorite spring dinner ideas that highlight the season’s freshest ingredients. With the arrival of spring, our plates can be filled with vibrant produce like spinach, broccoli, and artichokes, making mealtime a delight.

I’ve curated a collection of 11 delicious and efficient dinner ideas that require minimal active kitchen time, most taking under 25 minutes to prepare. From one-pan meals to fresh pasta dishes, these recipes are perfect for making the most of the season’s produce while creating memorable meals.

These dishes balance light, fresh flavors with satisfying elements, ideal for the transitional weather of spring. Each recipe includes a complete ingredient list with measurements and step-by-step cooking instructions, making it easy to bring a taste of spring to your table.

Embracing the Flavors of Spring

Spring brings a fresh wave of flavors and ingredients to our favorite dishes. As the seasons change, we’re inspired to transition from heavy winter comfort foods to lighter, brighter meals.

The distinctive flavor profiles of spring cooking include the delicate sweetness of early vegetables and the brightness of fresh herbs, returning vibrant colors to our plates.

Our 11 spring recipes highlight seasonal ingredients at their peak freshness and flavor, balancing light and fresh elements with comforting components.

Fresh and Vibrant Spring Dinner Recipes

With the arrival of spring, our culinary horizons expand, offering a chance to explore new flavors and recipes. The season brings a variety of fresh ingredients that can be used to create delicious and healthy dinners. Here are some of our favorite spring dinner recipes that incorporate the freshest ingredients of the season.

Vegetarian White Bean and Spinach “Marry Me” Dish

This vegetarian twist on the classic “Marry Me Chicken” recipe uses fiber-packed white beans and spinach as the main ingredients, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Serve it with a crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Ingredients List

• 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
2. Add the white beans, vegetable broth, and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and cook until heated through.
4. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.

Spinach Salad with Quinoa, Chicken & Fresh Berries

This salad combines protein-packed quinoa and chicken with fresh berries and spinach, making it a complete and refreshing meal.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Grill or cook the chicken and dice it.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chicken, fresh spinach, berries, feta cheese, and pecans.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
5. Toss gently to combine.

Creamy Brie and Sun-Dried Tomato Fusilli with Spinach

This recipe utilizes the ridges of fusilli pasta to capture a velvety cheese sauce, making it a decadent spring dinner option.

Ingredients List

• 8 oz fusilli pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup brie cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, combine the brie cheese, heavy cream, and dried basil. Heat until smooth.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Baked Creamed Spinach Pasta

A comforting classic with a spring twist, this baked pasta dish is perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients List

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp dried nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, combine the cream, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg. Heat until the cheese is melted.
3. Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and cream sauce.
5. Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown.

One-Pan Salmon with Garlicky Broccoli

This efficient one-pan meal minimizes cleanup while maximizing nutrition with omega-3s and vegetables.

Ingredients List

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli and cook until tender.
4. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Cook until the salmon is cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon slices on the side.

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

This quick-cooking pasta dish delivers a restaurant-quality meal in minimal time, perfect for a busy spring evening.

Ingredients List

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, combine the cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Heat until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

20-Minute Gnocchi with Pesto, Shrimp and Peas

This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy spring evening, combining the flavors of pesto, shrimp, and peas.

Ingredients List

• 1 package gnocchi
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup cooked shrimp
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, combine the pesto sauce, cooked shrimp, and frozen peas. Heat until the peas are tender.
3. Combine the cooked gnocchi and sauce.
4. Top with Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Lemon Mint Pea Pasta

Fresh spring herbs enhance this dish, making it a bright and refreshing spring dinner option.

Ingredients List

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 1 cup fresh peas
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, combine the fresh peas, chopped mint, lemon juice, and olive oil. Heat until the peas are tender.
3. Combine the cooked pasta and sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Spinach

Citrus brightens this dish, making it a flavorful and healthy spring dinner option.

Ingredients List

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Grill or cook the chicken breasts until cooked through.
2. In a saucepan, combine the garlic, fresh spinach, lemon juice, and thyme. Heat until the spinach is wilted.
3. Serve the chicken with the spinach sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Broccoli Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

A comfort food classic gets a spring twist with the addition of broccoli, making it a satisfying and healthy dinner option.

Ingredients List

• 4 slices bread
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Steam the broccoli until tender.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter side down, in a skillet.
4. Top with cheese, broccoli, and another bread slice (butter side up).
5. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

Creamy Chickpea Vodka Sauce with Baby Kale

This plant-based protein creates a satisfying meal, and the baby kale adds a fresh touch to this spring dinner recipe.

Ingredients List

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vodka sauce
• 2 cups baby kale
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, combine the chickpeas and vodka sauce. Heat until heated through.
3. Stir in the baby kale until wilted.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and sauce.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Seasonal Cooking Tips for Spring Dinners

As the weather warms up, I crave more color in my meals, and I’m sharing my top spring cooking tips. With a few sunny days under our belt, it’s the perfect time to bring to life all the yummy spring recipes of years past!

One of my favorite ways to preserve the bright color and crisp texture of spring produce like asparagus is through quick blanching. To do this, I’ll briefly submerge the asparagus in boiling water, then immediately plunge it into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

When working with delicate spring greens like spinach, arugula, and baby lettuces, it’s essential to clean and prepare them properly to maintain their freshness. Here’s a simple process:

• Rinse the greens gently in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
• Gently shake off excess water without bruising the leaves.
• Pat dry with a clean towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.

To make the most of spring dinners, I’ve found that using make-ahead components and efficient cooking techniques can be a huge time-saver on weeknights. For example, I often prepare a batch of quinoa or roasted vegetables on the weekend and use them throughout the week in different meals.

When selecting seasonal ingredients at farmers’ markets or grocery stores, I look for the freshest produce. For asparagus, I choose spears with tightly closed buds and a vibrant green color. For peas, I opt for plump, firm pods. Early berries should be plump and have a sweet aroma.

To incorporate spring herbs like mint, dill, chives, and basil into my recipes, I like to add them towards the end of cooking or use them as a garnish. This helps preserve their bright flavors and aromas.

When cooking spring vegetables, I often use quick sautéing or steaming to highlight their natural flavors. For heartier vegetables like asparagus, roasting can bring out their natural sweetness.

To adapt these recipes based on what’s available locally and in season, I like to swap out ingredients with similar alternatives. For example, if I can’t find fresh asparagus, I might use green beans or Brussels sprouts instead.

Finally, to extend the freshness of spring produce and reduce food waste, I make sure to store it properly. For example, I’ll store fresh herbs in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator, and keep asparagus in a container with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.

Making the Most of Spring Produce

With the onset of spring, the flavor and quality of seasonal produce are at their peak. I enjoy making recipes that highlight fresh ingredients like asparagus. My favorite grilled asparagus caesar is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy spring produce.

Asparagus is not only tasty, but it’s also a great addition to various dishes, from pasta salads to roasted vegetable recipes. To make the most of the season, I incorporate asparagus into my meals, savoring its unique flavor.

Quick and Easy Spring Dinner Ideas

I’m excited to share some of my favorite quick and easy spring dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Recipes like Spinach Salad with Quinoa, Chicken & Fresh Berries and Baked Creamed Spinach Pasta are not only delicious but also help you psych up for the week ahead.

One of the key benefits of these spring dinner ideas is their time-saving aspect. Many can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, making them ideal for weeknight meals. For instance, One-Pan Salmon with Garlicky Broccoli is a flavorful dish that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.

To make the most of these quick spring recipes, consider meal planning strategies that involve prepping components ahead of time. This can include chopping vegetables, cooking proteins, or preparing grains in advance. For example, cooking quinoa or brown rice in bulk can be used in multiple meals throughout the week.

Recipe: Spinach Salad with Quinoa, Chicken & Fresh Berries

• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup fresh berries
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, diced chicken, and fresh berries.
2. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Toss gently to combine.

These quick and easy spring dinner ideas not only save time but also ensure that you’re making the most of peak-season ingredients. By incorporating recipes like these into your meal plan, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Nutritional Benefits of Spring Ingredients

As we dive into spring dinner recipes, it’s essential to understand the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used. Spring ingredients like spinach and asparagus are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, supporting overall health.

These ingredients, combined with protein-rich foods like salmon and chicken, create balanced meals. Incorporating a variety of colorful spring produce ensures a wide spectrum of vitamins and minerals.

Pairing Suggestions for Spring Meals

When it comes to spring meals, the right pairing can make all the difference. For a dish like Baked Creamed Spinach Pasta, pairing it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread creates a well-rounded dinner.

To complement the flavors, consider a light citrus salad alongside rich dishes like Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta.

Meal Prep Tips for Spring Dinners

Effective meal prep can transform your spring dinner routine. I provide specific strategies for each recipe, identifying components that can be prepared in advance. For instance, the asparagus pasta salad is divine when prepped ahead of time.

To maintain freshness, store prepped ingredients in airtight containers. Batch cook components like grilled chicken or quinoa to use across multiple recipes.

Enjoying the Bounty of the Season

Embracing the flavors of spring, we discover a world of delicious and healthy dinner options. Our 11 spring dinner recipes showcase the season’s bounty, from vibrant salads to light, savory dishes. By cooking with seasonal ingredients, we connect with nature’s rhythms and create memorable meals. Let’s enjoy the fleeting beauty of spring’s flavors.

FAQ

What are some quick and easy dinner ideas for busy weeknights?

I find that dishes like 20-Minute Gnocchi with Pesto, Shrimp and Peas or Lemon Garlic Chicken with Spinach are perfect for busy weeknights as they can be prepared in no time and are packed with flavor.

How can I make the most of spring produce in my meals?

I like to incorporate fresh ingredients like asparagus, peas, and spinach into my meals. These ingredients add color, flavor, and nutrients to my dishes, making them perfect for the season.

What are some vegetarian options for spring dinner recipes?

Vegetarian White Bean and Spinach “Marry Me” Dish and Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta are two of my favorite vegetarian options that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Can I meal prep spring dinner recipes?

Yes, many spring dinner recipes can be meal prepped. For example, you can prepare the sauce for Creamy Brie and Sun-Dried Tomato Fusilli with Spinach ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later use.

How can I add more flavor to my spring dinner recipes?

I like to use fresh herbs like lemon mint and basil to add flavor to my dishes. You can also use ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and pesto to give your meals a boost of flavor.

What are some healthy spring dinner recipe options?

One-Pan Salmon with Garlicky Broccoli and Lemon Garlic Chicken with Spinach are two healthy options that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and protein.

Can I make spring dinner recipes with pantry staples?

Yes, many spring dinner recipes can be made with pantry staples like pasta, canned beans, and spices. You can also stock up on frozen vegetables like peas and spinach to add to your meals.