20 Yummy And Mouth Watering Spring Dinner Ideas

As the days grow longer and the landscape bursts with color, spring reinvigorates our appetite with a promise of fresh produce and vibrant flavors. Spring dinner ideas celebrate this seasonal shift, focusing on lighter dishes that incorporate tender greens, sprightly herbs, and the first fruits of the year. These meals are perfect for enjoying the mild weather and the fresh bounty that comes with it.

Incorporating ingredients like asparagus, peas, radishes, and strawberries, spring dinners can be both refreshing and satisfying. Whether it’s a simple salad dressed with a lemony vinaigrette, a quick stir-fry of crisp vegetables, or a savory tart filled with fresh cheeses and eggs, these dishes make the most of what the season has to offer. Ideal for family meals or outdoor dining, spring recipes provide a delicious way to celebrate the season’s fresh flavors.

1. Spring Minestrone

Spring Minestrone

Image and recipe by Realsimple

This delightful recipe starts with sautéing leeks and celery in oil, with a pinch of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat, until the leeks become tender. Then, it’s time to pour in the broth and bring everything to a lively boil before adding the pasta. As the pasta cooks to perfect tenderness, beans are tossed in during the last few minutes for extra heartiness. Off the heat, the dish is finished with fresh chard, basil, and a splash of lemon juice, enhancing its vibrant flavors. Served up in warm bowls, each serving is beautifully drizzled with olive oil and optionally topped with Parmesan and basil leaves for an extra touch of indulgence and freshness.

2. Chicken with Creamy Mushrooms and Snap Peas

Chicken with Creamy Mushrooms and Snap Peas

Image and recipe by foodnetwork

Kick off this delicious recipe by seasoning chicken cutlets and browning them in a skillet, then transfer them to the oven to keep warm. In the same skillet, sauté scallions and mushrooms, deglaze with broth, and reduce. Add cream and let it thicken, then stir in snap peas for a fresh crunch. Serve the golden chicken topped with the creamy, flavorful vegetables for a cozy and satisfying meal.

3. Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata

Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman

Get ready to delight your palate with this quick creamy chicken pasta recipe. Start by simmering pasta and set it aside. Pound chicken breasts, season, and dredge in flour. Fry until golden in a mix of butter and oil, then set aside. In the same skillet, deglaze with wine, add chicken broth and lemon juice, and let it reduce. Stir in heavy cream, parsley, and capers for a rich, tangy sauce. Serve the chicken and pasta with this luxurious sauce, topped with a sprinkle of parsley for a perfect weeknight feast!

4. Lemon-Pepper Tofu With Apricot-Chickpea Salsa

Lemon-Pepper Tofu With Apricot-Chickpea Salsa

Image and recipe by realsimple

Start by pressing tofu to remove excess moisture, then slice and lay it in a baking dish. Mix lemon juice, honey, oil, and salt for a marinade and pour over the tofu. In another bowl, mix apricots with vinegar and set aside. Combine cilantro, capers, garlic, red pepper, chickpeas, lemon zest, and oil in a separate bowl. Cook couscous in boiling water, then fluff it up. Broil the marinated tofu until browned, basting with marinade for extra flavor. Mix the apricots into the chickpea mixture to create a salsa. Serve the broiled tofu over couscous and top with apricot-chickpea salsa for a delicious, wholesome meal.

5. Spring Vegetable Fettuccine Alfredo

Spring Vegetable Fettuccine Alfredo

Image and recipe by foodnetwork

Whip up a spring favorite with this creamy dandelion pasta recipe! Boil pasta to al dente, sauté mushrooms and asparagus until golden, and create a rich sauce with butter, cream, and fresh peas. Toss in Parmigiano-Reggiano, chives, and lemon zest for a burst of flavor. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water and serve this delightful dish warm for a perfect seasonal treat!

“Did you know that morel mushrooms make their brief appearance in spring? These wild mushrooms are perfect for enhancing the flavors of lighter dishes. Sauté them with garlic and thyme, then fold them into a creamy risotto for a rich, earthy dish that’s perfect for spring evenings”

6. Lamb Meatballs

Lamb Meatballs

Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman

Ready to spice up your spring dinners? Dive into this delightful recipe for savory lamb meatballs, a true crowd-pleaser! Start by preheating your oven and preparing a baking sheet. Mix breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, and an egg into a paste, then enhance it with aromatic spices and herbs like cumin, paprika, and cilantro. Shape this fragrant mixture into meatballs and bake until perfectly browned. Serve these juicy delights with tzatziki and fresh pita for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make! Perfect for any spring table!

7. Creamy Asparagus Chicken

Creamy Asparagus Chicken

Image and recipe by marthastewart

Spring is in the air and so are the delightful aromas of this oven-roasted chicken dinner! Picture perfectly seasoned chicken, crisped to golden perfection alongside tender leeks and potatoes, all bathed in a light creamy sauce with a hint of white wine. This dish is completed with vibrant asparagus spears, added just in time to cook to crisp-tender. It’s a one-skillet wonder that promises to brighten your table and impress any dinner guest this spring season. Serve it garnished with fresh dill for that final touch of freshness!

“Did you know that rhubarb isn’t just for pies? I love to use its tartness in savory dishes. Try a rhubarb chutney as a complement to grilled chicken or pork; it’s a game-changer for springtime dinners.”

8. Asparagus Risotto

Asparagus Risotto

Image and recipe by feastingathome

Start by preparing the asparagus, blanching the middles to a tender perfection and transforming them into a silky, basil-infused puree. As you cook, sauté leeks until they’re soft, then layer in arborio rice, gradually adding broth to achieve that perfect, creamy consistency. Finish by folding in the fresh asparagus tips and the lush green puree for a burst of spring flavor. Top with pecorino, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and chili flakes for a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to devour!

9. Mango Chicken Curry with Coconut Rice

Mango Chicken Curry with Coconut Rice

Image and recipe by realsimple

Whip up this tropical delight that’s sure to bring the flavors of spring right to your table! Start by simmering a blend of rice with coconut milk and a touch of oil, letting it steep to perfection. In another pan, sauté fragrant curry paste with garlic and ginger, then whisk in coconut milk and bring it all to a lively boil. Toss in some chicken and bell peppers, cooking until just tender. Finish off by stirring in sweet mango chunks for a burst of freshness. Serve this aromatic concoction over fluffy coconut rice, garnished with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for that extra zing! Perfect for a vibrant spring dinner!

10. Lemon Pasta Pronto

Lemon Pasta Pronto

Image and recipe by foodnetwork

This delightful pasta recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner. Start by sautéing pancetta, thyme, garlic, and onions, then brighten the mix with a splash of lemon, adding peas and cream for a lush, creamy sauce. Elevate the texture with a sprinkle of homemade pangrattato—crispy, golden breadcrumbs infused with lemon zest and thyme. Toss al dente pasta into this aromatic concoction, finish with a generous dusting of Pecorino, and serve straight from the skillet for a true taste of the season. Enjoy this simple yet elegant meal that promises to impress!

11. Enchiladas Verdes

Enchiladas Verdes

Image and recipe by thepioneerwoman

Dive into the vibrant flavors of spring with this mouth-watering chicken enchilada recipe, perfect for a cozy family dinner. Start by roasting tomatillos, onions, and serrano chilis to create a zesty homemade sauce, blended smoothly with hints of garlic, lime, and cilantro. The enchiladas themselves are stuffed with a savory mixture of chicken, spices, and cheese, all snugly wrapped in soft, microwaved tortillas. Baked until the cheese is deliciously melted and the edges are tantalizingly golden, this dish is not just a meal, but a celebration of seasonal freshness and comfort.

12. Savory Galette with Leeks & Kale

Savory Galette with Leeks & Kale

Image and recipe by feastingathome

In our spring dinner recipes series, discover the art of perfect pastry with this delectable rough puff pastry guide. Start by pulsing chilled flour, sugar, salt, and butter until you achieve a pea-sized crumble, then chill again to keep everything flaky. Add a splash of vinegar and ice water to achieve that tender, yet sturdy dough texture—just remember, mixing too much is a pastry no-no! Once shaped and rested, a few strategic folds and turns transform this simple mixture into layers of buttery perfection, ready for your favorite seasonal filling or enjoyed as a standalone treat. Dive into this recipe and bring a touch of bakery-quality magic to your home kitchen this spring!

13. Braised Chicken Thighs with Carrots and Lemons Recipe

Braised Chicken Thighs with Carrots and Lemons Recipe

Image and recipe by southernliving

Treat your taste buds this spring with our delightful skillet chicken recipe, enhanced with the subtle sweetness of carrots and the aromatic kick of paprika. Begin by browning the paprika-sprinkled chicken to perfection, setting the stage for the carrots to caramelize beautifully in the same skillet. The dish comes together with a rich, savory broth and fresh thyme, simmered gently to ensure the chicken is succulent and tender. For an extra touch of comfort, serve it atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, punctuated with a zest of lemon for a refreshing finish. Perfect for a cozy, springtime dinner!

14. Spring-Vegetable Sheet Pan Quiche

Spring-Vegetable Sheet Pan Quiche

Image and recipe by southernliving

Spring into the season with this delightful asparagus and spinach quiche, a perfect recipe for any spring dinner! Begin by prepping a homemade crust on a rimmed baking sheet, baking it until golden and ready for its rich filling. While the crust cools, sauté asparagus and spinach until they’re just tender, infusing them with subtle spices for a fresh, vibrant flavor. Layer these greens with creamy cheese and a savory blend of eggs, herbs, and seasonings, then bake until the heart of the quiche is wonderfully set. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but a flavorful celebration of spring’s best!

15. Spring Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry Crust

Spring Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry Crust

Image and recipe by midwestliving

This delightful Chicken and Vegetable Pot Pie is perfect for a cozy dinner. Begin by sautéing carrots and onions until tender, then stir in chicken and peas, seasoned with dill, salt, and pepper. Combine crème fraîche, chicken broth, and mustard to create a creamy mixture that’s poured into a buttered baking dish. Crown it with a puff pastry lid, brushed with an egg wash, and bake until golden. Allow this comfort dish to rest before serving, ensuring each bite is as satisfying as springtime itself!

16. Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan

Chicken & Spinach Skillet Pasta with Lemon & Parmesan

Image and recipe by eatingwell

Whip up a delightful spring dish with this simple yet flavorful pasta recipe! Begin by cooking your pasta as directed, then set aside. In a large skillet, sauté chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden, adding garlic for that aromatic kick. Deglaze with a splash of wine and a squeeze of lemon for a zesty touch. Combine with spinach and pasta, allowing the greens to wilt beautifully under the cover. Serve this warm, comforting meal topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a perfect finish. Ideal for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste!

17. Halibut en Papillote with Fennel, Olives and Leeks

Halibut en Papillote with Fennel, Olives and Leeks

Image and recipe by midwestliving

Whip up a light and elegant spring dinner with this simple parchment-baked halibut recipe! Start by drizzling olive oil on parchment paper, then layering it with fennel, leek, and olives. Top with halibut fillets seasoned perfectly with salt, pepper, thyme, and lemon slices, finishing with a splash of wine and a dollop of butter. Seal the packets and bake to perfection in just 10 minutes. Once done, carefully open these delightful ‘paper empanadas’ at the table for a steaming, fragrant reveal that’s both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying!

“Did you know that the secret to a vibrant spring salad is edible flowers? Incorporating blossoms like violets or nasturtiums not only adds a splash of color but also a unique peppery taste that surprises guests every time”

18. Grilled chicken burger with red cabbage coleslaw

Grilled chicken burger with red cabbage coleslaw

Image and recipe by taste

Looking for a fresh and easy spring dinner option? Try this delightful orzo and pea dish! Just cook the orzo as directed, tossing in some peas for the last two minutes. Then, drain and mix with your favorite ingredients for a light, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a spring evening. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of seasonal cooking at its best!

19. Orzo with Sesame and Peas

Orzo with Sesame and Peas

Image and recipe by sunset

Whip up a delightful spring dinner with these mouth-watering chicken burgers! Start by crafting patties from seasoned chicken and breadcrumbs, chilling them to perfect firmness. While the patties rest, toss together a vibrant slaw of cabbage, carrot, and onion, enriched with a tangy mix of mayonnaise, mustard, and a hint of honey. Grill the patties until golden and serve on lightly toasted bread, topped with the crunchy slaw and fresh rocket. This dish promises a burst of flavors and textures, perfect for a cozy spring evening!

20. Spring Pesto Pasta With Asparagus

Spring Pesto Pasta With Asparagus

Image and recipe by Aheadofthyme

Spring into the season with this vibrant and fresh asparagus pesto pasta recipe! Start by blanching asparagus in boiling salted water, swiftly cooling it in ice to lock in its bright green hue. Next, cook your pasta to al dente perfection, saving a splash of the water to achieve the silkiest pesto sauce. Toss together with aromatic basil pesto, zesty lemon, and creamy mozzarella for a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to devour. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and serve up a plateful of springtime bliss!

“Did you know that spring is the best time to experiment with asparagus? It’s not just for roasting—try shaving raw asparagus into ribbons with a vegetable peeler and toss it with lemon zest and olive oil for a crisp, refreshing salad.”

FAQS

1. What are some popular ingredients to use in spring dinners?

Spring is the perfect time to utilize fresh, seasonal ingredients. Look for asparagus, peas, radishes, spring greens like arugula and spinach, fresh herbs such as parsley and mint, artichokes, and seasonal fruits like strawberries and rhubarb.

2. Can you recommend some light spring dinner recipes?


Light spring dinners often feature salads, stir-fries, and grilled dishes. Examples include strawberry spinach salad, lemon herb chicken, grilled asparagus with feta, and shrimp stir-fry with spring vegetables.

3. What are some vegetarian options for a spring dinner?


Vegetarian spring dinners can include dishes like pea risotto, asparagus quiche, spring vegetable tart, and creamy carrot soup. Incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs can make these meals both flavorful and satisfying.

4. How can I incorporate more spring flavors into my cooking?


Utilize the fresh produce available in spring by incorporating them into salads, soups, and as side dishes. Experiment with herbs like dill, chives, and tarragon to enhance the flavor of your meals.

5. What are some quick and easy spring dinner ideas?


Quick spring dinners could include pasta primavera, sautéed garlic shrimp with peas, chicken piccata, or a simple green salad topped with grilled salmon or chicken.

If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Home and Garden” board.

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