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Home » Recipe Collections

31 Spring Dishes That Are Light, Flavorful, and Filling

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

Spring is the perfect time to mix up your meals with fresh, light dishes that still leave you feeling full. Crisp ingredients, bright flavors, and simple cooking make these recipes great for shaking off heavier winter meals without giving up on taste. Whether you're cooking for yourself or sharing with others, these dishes bring just the right balance of fresh and filling.

A plate of Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots on a wooden board.
Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

Pesto Flatbread

An image of slices of flatbread on a serving plate.
Pesto Flatbread. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pesto flatbread is quick to make, featuring a crisp naan base, creamy ricotta, and juicy cherry tomatoes. With only 20 minutes of prep, it’s a simple way to add variety to a brunch menu.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Flatbread

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.

This pasta dish comes together in 30 minutes with a bright pea shoot pesto and roasted oyster mushrooms. A fresh option for a spring brunch that doesn't take much time to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms

Boxty (Irish Potato Pancakes)

A close up image of Irish potato pancakes on a plate.
Boxty (Irish Potato Pancakes). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Boxty, a traditional Irish potato pancake, has a crisp outside and a soft center. Served with eggs or as a side, it’s a hearty way to round out a spring brunch.
Get the Recipe: Boxty (Irish Potato Pancakes)

Pineapple Fried Rice

An image of pineapple fried rice on a plate.
Pineapple Fried Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pineapple fried rice brings a mix of sweet and savory with crispy rice, roasted tofu, and juicy pineapple. Cooked in one pan, it keeps cleanup easy while adding bold flavors to a holiday brunch.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Fried Rice

Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos

An overhead image of three sweet potato black bean tacos.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sweet potatoes and spiced black beans fill these tacos, finished with a creamy lime sauce. A simple way to bring fresh, colorful flavors to a brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos

Antipasto Salad

Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Antipasto salad brings together Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables for a mix of bold flavors. A fresh yet hearty option for a brunch gathering.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Easy Childa

Easy Childa. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Childa, or savory chickpea flour pancakes, cook quickly and are packed with spices. Served with chutney or yogurt, they bring a bold, plant-based option to the brunch table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Childa

Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Maple-roasted rainbow carrots add natural sweetness and color. A simple side that fits seamlessly into any brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Maple Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Asparagus Omelette Souffle

Asparagus Omelette Souffle. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This omelette soufflé is light and airy, filled with asparagus, green onions, and optional goat cheese. A fresh way to serve eggs with a bit of extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Omelette Souffle

Air Fryer Loaded Bagel Breakfast Bake Casserole

Air Fryer Loaded Bagel Breakfast Bake Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A bagel breakfast bake combines leftover bagels with eggs and cheese for a different take on baked egg dishes. Made in the air fryer, it’s a practical choice when feeding a group.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Loaded Bagel Breakfast Bake Casserole

Fried Avocado Tacos

An overhead view of three fried avocado tacos on parchment paper surrounded by garnishes.
Fried Avocado Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fried avocado tacos combine crispy avocado fries, refried beans, and a creamy poblano sauce in soft tortillas. A fresh way to bring something different to a brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Fried Avocado Tacos

Loaded Cheesy Potato Waffles

Loaded Cheesy Potato Waffles. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Crispy, cheesy potato waffles pair with eggs and bacon for a filling breakfast. A great way to bring something hearty to the table.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cheesy Potato Waffles

Veggie Pinwheels

An image of veggie pinwheels on a serving plate.
Veggie Pinwheels. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Veggie pinwheels with hummus and fresh vegetables are quick to assemble and great for snacking. They bring color and variety to a brunch menu without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pinwheels

Dandelion Greens and Beans Skillet

Dandelion Greens and Beans Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sautéed dandelion greens with cannellini and kidney beans come together in under 30 minutes. A simple way to bring fresh greens to the brunch table.
Get the Recipe: Dandelion Greens and Beans Skillet

Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes

Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Garlic butter fondant potatoes have a crisp outer layer and a soft center, with thyme and garlic adding plenty of flavor. Served hot, they work well as a side for a holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes

Scrambled Eggs with Goat Cheese

Scrambled Eggs with Goat Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Soft scrambled eggs with goat cheese and scallions, served on warm toast, are easy yet flavorful. A quick way to bring something special to the table.
Get the Recipe: Scrambled Eggs with Goat Cheese

Spring Lamb Nachos

Spring Lamb Nachos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These lamb nachos bring in-season vegetables like carrots, onions, peas, and radishes, all topped with crumbled feta. Baked on a sheet pan, they’re a fun addition to a spring gathering.
Get the Recipe: Spring Lamb Nachos

Shrimp Spring Rolls

Shrimp Spring Rolls. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Shrimp spring rolls with spicy garlic sauce are light, crisp, and simple to prepare. A great addition to a spring brunch with bright flavors.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

Spring Pea and Radish Risotto

Spring Pea and Radish Risotto. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This creamy risotto features fresh peas, Meyer lemon, and roasted radishes, adding bright spring flavors. Crispy bacon and parmesan bring richness for a well-balanced dish.
Get the Recipe: Spring Pea and Radish Risotto

Baked Spring Pea and Dill Fritters

Baked Spring Pea and Dill Fritters. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

These baked pea and dill fritters come together easily and pair well with lemon tahini sauce. A simple way to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spring Pea and Dill Fritters

Carrot Cake Pancakes

Carrot Cake Pancakes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Carrot cake pancakes bring the flavors of the classic dessert to the breakfast table with warm spices and fresh carrots. Topped with cream cheese, they make brunch feel festive.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Pancakes

Pasta Fresca

An overhead image of pasta fresca in a white plate with cheese and tomatoes in the background.
Pasta Fresca. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta fresca uses fresh ingredients and is ready in under 30 minutes. A quick way to serve a flavorful pasta dish for a holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

Shrimp Tostadas with Spicy Avocado Crema

Shrimp Tostadas with Spicy Avocado Crema. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Shrimp tostadas are crisp and easy to assemble, topped with spicy avocado crema and crunchy slaw. A simple way to add fresh, bold flavors to a brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tostadas with Spicy Avocado Crema

Pesto Risotto

Pesto Risotto. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Pesto risotto is a creamy dish that can be made on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot. A warm and comforting addition to a brunch table.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Risotto

Spring Gyros with Apricot Salsa

Spring Gyros with Apricot Salsa. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Gyros get a seasonal update with sweet apricot salsa, yogurt sauce, and fresh pea sprouts. A light yet flavorful option for a holiday brunch.
Get the Recipe: Spring Gyros with Apricot Salsa

Garden Veggie Macaroni Salad

Garden Veggie Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Macaroni salad with fresh vegetables and a creamy avocado dressing is light yet balanced. A fresh way to add variety to a brunch spread while keeping things simple.
Get the Recipe: Garden Veggie Macaroni Salad

Breakfast Quesadilla

An image of two breakfast quesadillas on a wooden cutting board.
Breakfast Quesadilla. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Breakfast quesadillas with eggs and cheese come together in just 15 minutes and can be made ahead. A convenient choice for a busy morning.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Quesadilla

Roasted Radishes with Rosemary and Honey

Roasted Radishes with Rosemary and Honey. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted radishes with rosemary and honey soften in flavor while keeping a slight crispness. A simple way to highlight a fresh, in-season vegetable.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Radishes with Rosemary and Honey

BBQ Roasted Cauliflower Salad

BBQ Roasted Cauliflower Salad. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Roasted cauliflower with crisp lettuce and a creamy pumpkin seed ranch dressing brings a mix of textures and flavors. A good option for a lighter dish that still stands out.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Roasted Cauliflower Salad

Sheet Pan Eggs Benedict

Sheet Pan Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This sheet pan eggs benedict bakes eggs, potatoes, and vegetables together for an easy take on a classic dish. A practical way to serve a group without extra steps.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Eggs Benedict

Roasted Vegetable Salad

An overhead image of roasted vegetable salad on a serving dish. with the dressing on the side.
Roasted Vegetable Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted vegetable salad with a light vinaigrette works well as a main or side dish. Served hot or cold, it’s an easy way to add more vegetables to a brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegetable Salad

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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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