As the last wisps of winter’s chill dissipate, our taste buds begin to crave the bright flavors and colors of spring. There’s something special about cooking with the season’s freshest ingredients – from the sweet snap of asparagus to the tangy zip of rhubarb. In this collection of 20 fresh March recipes, we celebrate the best of spring’s bounty. From light and refreshing soups to hearty risottos and rich tarts, these dishes showcase the season’s most delightful flavors.
Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your springtime meals with this vibrant and flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Toss asparagus, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet until evenly coated.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spring Pea and Mint Soup
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this refreshing soup that showcases the sweet flavors of fresh peas and mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine peas, chicken broth, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
3. Return the soup to the pot and stir in heavy cream. Heat over low heat until warmed through.
4. Stir in chopped mint leaves and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Rainbow Carrot Salad with Honey Dressing
Add a pop of color and sweetness to your meal with this vibrant Rainbow Carrot Salad, topped with a tangy Honey Dressing. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots, mixed greens, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss to coat.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! This salad is best served fresh.
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful herb-crusted rack of lamb, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With its tender and juicy texture, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) rack of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb rack on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or broiler pan. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the lamb, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the lamb, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner. Sweet strawberries and tangy spinach come together in harmony, elevated by the rich flavor of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with feta cheese and nuts if using. Toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and toss again to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup honey
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened slightly. Let cool before using.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including glaze preparation)
Roasted Radish and Feta Tart
A sweet and savory tart that showcases the natural sweetness of roasted radishes paired with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large radishes, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, toss radish slices with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Arrange radish slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the radishes.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Brush edges with a little water and press gently to seal.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Leek Risotto
A creamy and savory Italian-inspired dish that showcases the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and the sweetness of caramelized leeks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add leek and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 10 minutes).
2. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Salmon with Citrus Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and tangy combination of maple glazed salmon and citrus salsa. The perfect balance of flavors and textures will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
For the Maple Glaze:
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
For the Salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Citrus Salsa:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple glaze ingredients.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine citrus salsa ingredients in a separate bowl.
6. Serve glazed salmon with a dollop of citrus salsa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Artichoke and Goat Cheese Flatbread
A flavorful and visually appealing flatbread perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering. This recipe combines the sweetness of artichokes with the creaminess of goat cheese, all on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough on a floured surface and roll out into a rectangle shape.
5. Top with chopped artichoke hearts and crumbled goat cheese.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rhubarb and Ginger Crumble
This rhubarb and ginger crumble is a delicious twist on the classic dessert, combining the tartness of rhubarb with the warmth of ginger. Perfect for springtime or anytime you want a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, sugar, ginger, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the rhubarb mixture.
5. Mix together rolled oats and melted butter until crumbly.
6. Top the rhubarb mixture with the oat mixture.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grilled Shrimp with Mango Avocado Salsa
Elevate your summer BBQ game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines succulent grilled shrimp with a sweet and tangy mango avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together mango, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
3. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Serve grilled shrimp with mango avocado salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spring Vegetable Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce
Brighten up your plate with this vibrant spring vegetable stir-fry, elevated by a savory garlic sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, mushrooms)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the spring vegetables and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp (about 4-5 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
4. Pour the garlic sauce into the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Cook for an additional 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the sweetness of lemon and the subtlety of lavender, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add lemon juice and lavender buds; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Braised Fennel with Orange Zest
A sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course. This recipe showcases the unique flavor of fennel, enhanced by the brightness of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 2 large fennel bulbs, trimmed and quartered
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add fennel, wine (if using), broth, and orange zest. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cover pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and braise for 20-25 minutes or until fennel is tender.
7. Garnish with parsley or thyme and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Spinach Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry made with chickpeas, spinach, and a blend of Indian spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas and spinach; cook until spinach is wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
A sweet and savory mix of roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and fresh greens, this salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The earthy sweetness of the beets pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts (if using).
6. Toss with the dressing and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for roasting the beets, plus prep time.
Pistachio-Crusted Cod with Lemon Butter
This recipe combines the flaky tenderness of cod with the nutty crunch of pistachios and the brightness of lemon butter. It’s an easy and impressive dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pistachio meal
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pistachio meal and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each cod fillet into the pistachio mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear cod for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until fish is cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix lemon juice and softened butter in a small bowl.
7. Serve cod with lemon butter spooned over the top and garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist and flavorful carrot cake paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting – the perfect combination for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Cream cheese frosting ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, eggs, carrots, and walnuts (if using). Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a base for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Spread potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spring Herb Pesto Pasta
Brighten up your spring with this vibrant pasta dish, infused with the fresh flavors of herbs and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a food processor, combine basil, parsley, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Process until smooth, adding reserved pasta cooking liquid as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Add the pesto sauce to cooked pasta, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to welcome spring with these fresh and delicious recipes! From vibrant salads like Rainbow Carrot Salad with Honey Dressing and Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze, to hearty dishes like Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb and Wild Mushroom and Leek Risotto. Don’t miss out on the sweet treats like Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies and Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and comforting, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 fresh March recipes that celebrate the flavors of spring.