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Home » Recipe Collections

31 Earth Day Meals You’ll Make All Year Because They’re That Good

Published: Apr 18, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

These earth day meals aren’t just for April—they’re the kind of go-to recipes you’ll want on repeat no matter the season. They’re simple, packed with feel-good ingredients, and actually taste great. This isn’t about being perfect or trying to check every box. It’s just about food that does a little good and tastes good too. And yeah, you might forget they were meant for Earth Day in the first place.

burrata salad with balsamic glaze including spring mix, basil leaves, halved cherry tomatoes, drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil.

Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Mushroom Tartlets

A close up image of a single mushroom tartlet on a serving plate.
Mushroom Tartlets. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Flaky pastry and mushrooms come together fast with help from the freezer section. A simple pick that fits any spring gathering and works all year.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tartlets

Mushroom Ragù

An image of mushroom ragu in a white bowl with a garnish of basil on top.
Mushroom Ragù. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This ragù uses mushrooms in a way that feels filling without being heavy. Great for Earth Day and beyond when you want a solid, easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Ragù

Spinach Avocado Salad

An overhead image of spinach avocado salad in a wooden bowl with lemon in the background.
Spinach Avocado Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crisp veggies and a quick lemon dressing make this a no-brainer for spring cookouts. It’s a light dish you’ll keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Avocado Salad

Creamed Spinach

An overhead image of creamy spinach in a pot.
Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Three cheeses and a little heat turn fresh spinach into something fast and rich. It works for any spring dinner and doesn’t take much effort.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Mushroom Stroganoff

An image of mushroom stroganoff and white rice on a plate, with a fork on the side.
Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This mushroom stroganoff comes together in 30 minutes and tastes like more work than it is. It’s a smart use of seasonal mushrooms for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Stroganoff

Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

An image of lemon butter pasta in a bowl.
Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon butter pasta is bright, fast, and fits right into any spring meal plan. Great when you want something that feels fresh without much prep.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

Trenette al Pesto

An overhead image of trenette al pesto in a round serving plate.
Trenette al Pesto. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This pasta keeps it simple with basil, green beans, and potatoes. It’s a great way to bring fresh spring produce into your weeknight rotation.
Get the Recipe: Trenette al Pesto

One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Straight view of cooked one-pot lemon ricotta pasta garnished with rocket and fresh basil leaves placed in a white plate with a fork on the side.
One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Light, creamy, and citrusy, this comes together in 15 minutes flat. It’s a strong go-to when spring ingredients are in the fridge and time is tight.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Air Fryer Artichoke

A white plate with two grilled artichoke halves and a small stone bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Artichoke. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer artichokes get crispy in no time with just a few pantry basics. They’re a fun pick when you want to use fresh artichokes while they last.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Artichoke

Leek and Mushroom Pasta

An overhead image of cooked leek mushroom pasta in a pan.
Leek and Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Leeks, mushrooms, and herbs make this pasta taste like spring in under an hour. It’s a solid dinner that lets the produce do the talking.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Mushroom Pasta

Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze

burrata salad with balsamic glaze including spring mix, basil leaves, halved cherry tomatoes, drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Burrata, tomatoes, and greens come together fast with a splash of balsamic. It’s a light dish that works well all spring.
Get the Recipe: Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Raw Carrot Salad

An overhead image of raw carrot salad on a plate.
Raw Carrot Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This carrot salad is crunchy, tangy, and done in minutes. A good way to round out any spring meal with something raw and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Raw Carrot Salad

Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms

Top view of bowl of spring pasta with peas and oyster mushrooms with garnishes on the side.
Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Ready in 30 minutes, this pasta makes the most of roasted mushrooms and spring greens. It’s a simple option for a seasonally focused dinner.
Get the Recipe: Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms

Broccoli Pesto

A Bowl of broccoli pesto with extra broccoli and nuts in the background.
Broccoli Pesto. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

With just a few ingredients, this broccoli pesto comes together fast. Great for quick spring lunches or dinners that use what’s in season.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus on foil-lined baking sheet with lemon slice.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Asparagus cooks fast and shines with just a little oil and salt. This is one to keep on repeat while asparagus is fresh and easy to find.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Vegan Caesar Salad

Vegan caesar salad in a bowl drizzled with caesar salad dressing.
Vegan Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan Caesar is crisp, creamy, and quick to throw together. Great as a side or lunch while spring greens are at their best.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Caesar Salad

Kale Salad With Cranberries

A horizontal image of kale salad with cranberries.
Kale Salad With Cranberries. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This kale salad is bright, crunchy, and takes five minutes to mix. It fits right into any spring meal when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad With Cranberries

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

An overhead image of broccoli pesto pasta served in a plate.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

With cherry tomatoes and whipped ricotta, this pasta is both fast and fresh. A good dinner option when spring produce is in full swing.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Pasta e Piselli

An image of Pasta e Piselli served in a bowl.
Pasta e Piselli. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta e piselli uses sweet peas and cheese in a way that feels classic and quick. It’s a smart choice for spring meals that don’t take much work.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Piselli

Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

A close up view of a cooked asparagus casserole in a baking dish.
Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This casserole keeps things simple with tender asparagus and crispy topping. A great side to make while asparagus is in season.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

An overhead image of sun dried tomato pasta in a rectangular dish.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

One-pot pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and ricotta makes a bright, easy meal. Works well when you want something fast that still feels like spring.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Healthy Brussels sprouts and potato latkes.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Brussels sprouts get crisped up and turned into latkes for a new kind of side. These are great at brunch or paired with spring mains.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Pesto Tortellini Salad

A close up view of cooked tortellini pasta salad in a white bowl.
Pesto Tortellini Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This tortellini salad is done in 20 minutes and built for busy days. A quick and easy spring side when you don’t want to cook much.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad

Carrot Casserole

An overhead image of baked carrot casserole.
Carrot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This carrot casserole is creamy, crisp-topped, and super simple to prep. A good way to use spring carrots without overthinking it.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Casserole

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Done in 20 minutes, this broccoli mac and cheese balances comfort with seasonality. A fast, filling meal that doesn’t skip the greens.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Quinoa Fritters

Quinoa Fritters. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Crispy quinoa fritters use peas, feta, and a tangy sauce to bring it all together. They work as veggie burgers or quick bites for spring days.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Fritters

Creamy Vegan Garlic & Herb Pasta

Creamy Vegan Garlic & Herb Pasta. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

This creamy vegan aioli uses herbs like basil and dill for a fresh spin. It’s a good dip or spread to keep on hand for spring meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Garlic & Herb Pasta

Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Blackstone Brussel Spouts with bacon in a white bowl with a fork.
Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Brussels sprouts get a quick sear on the griddle with a bit of bacon. A solid side dish that’s ready fast and makes greens the focus.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Montreal Spring Fiddlehead Salad with Dill-Lemon Balm Kefir Dressing

Montreal Spring Fiddlehead Salad with Dill-Lemon Balm Kefir Dressing. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This salad uses spring ingredients like radishes and asparagus in a bright way. It’s great for showing off what’s in season at the market.
Get the Recipe: Montreal Spring Fiddlehead Salad with Dill-Lemon Balm Kefir Dressing

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Caesar pasta salad with chicken is budget-friendly, quick, and easy to prep. A good all-around lunch or dinner that fits into spring eating.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage brings flavor without much effort in this quick pasta. A practical dinner that uses spring veggies and doesn’t overcomplicate things.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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