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Home » Recipe Collections

If You’re Craving Fresh Flavors, These 38 Spring Meals Deliver

Published: Mar 22, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Spring meals are all about fresh flavors, and these recipes make the most of what the season has to offer. Think crisp greens, bright citrus, and simple ingredients that don’t need much to shine. Whether you’re looking for something light or a dish with bold flavors, these meals get it just right. No heavy sauces, no complicated steps—just great food that tastes like spring.

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.

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.

This lemon ricotta pasta is ready in 15 minutes and keeps things easy. It’s a simple choice when you’re craving fresh flavors without much effort.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

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

Broccoli pesto pasta with toasted lemon zest and cherry tomatoes makes a bright, 30-minute meal. Whipped ricotta adds a creamy touch for an easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad

An overhead image of Vegan Caesar Salad with Shaved Brussels Sprouts in wooden bowl.
Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan Caesar salad swaps lettuce for shaved Brussels sprouts. Topped with toasted chickpeas, it’s a fresh, plant-based choice for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Caesar 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.

Pea shoot pesto and roasted oyster mushrooms bring fresh spring flavors to this pasta. A light, plant-based meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms

Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

An overhead view of gomen wat in a white bowl.
Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gomen Wat is a traditional Ethiopian collard green dish that’s bold and vibrant. It’s a great way to bring something different to your spring meals.
Get the Recipe: Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

Baked Samosas

Top view image of healthy samosas on a black plate with additional samosas on a cooling rack.
Baked Samosas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These baked or air-fried samosas use six pantry ingredients for a simple, lighter take. A practical choice when you want fresh flavors without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Baked Samosas

Panzanella Salad

An overhead image of panzanella salad served on a white plate with dressing on top of it.
Panzanella Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This quick panzanella salad takes just 10 minutes with fresh vegetables and crusty bread. It’s a simple way to add bright spring flavors to your table.
Get the Recipe: Panzanella Salad

Heirloom Caprese Salad

An overhead photo of caprese salad served in a white bowl.
Heirloom Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

With just six ingredients, this Caprese salad is all about keeping things fresh. It’s a great way to enjoy ripe tomatoes and bring a light touch to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Heirloom Caprese Salad

Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari

An overhead view of kitchari in a pot above a wooden board.
Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kitchari is a one-pot rice and lentil dish that comes together in 45 minutes. A balanced, nutritious choice when you want something easy and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari

Stuffed Peppers

A photo showing vegan stuffed peppers arranged on a white plate, set atop a brown cloth, with a fork and knife placed beside.
Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted vegan stuffed peppers are packed with quinoa, lentils, and vegetables. It’s a wholesome, easy meal that’s a good choice for spring nights.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Microwave Asparagus

An overhead image of microwave asparagus in a serving plate with slices of lemon on the side.
Microwave Asparagus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Steaming asparagus in the microwave takes just five minutes. It’s a quick, no-fuss way to add a fresh, healthy side to your spring meals.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Asparagus

Greek Chickpea Soup

An image of greek chickpea soup in a bowl with utensils beside it.
Greek Chickpea Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Greek chickpea soup is a balanced meal that works in any season. With 45 minutes of cooking, it’s a practical option for easy meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Greek Chickpea Soup

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, buttery, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a simple choice when you want fresh flavors without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

Kale Salad With Cranberries

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

Kale salad with cranberries, lemon, and nuts comes together in five minutes. A fresh and easy side that pairs well with any spring meal.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad With Cranberries

Mediterranean Black Bean Salad

Mediterranean Black Bean Salad in a white bowl being drizzled with cilantro lime dressing.
Mediterranean Black Bean Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Black bean salad with cilantro lime dressing is a quick, 10-minute option. Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a bright choice for spring lunches or sides.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Black Bean Salad

3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli cheese casserole needs only three ingredients and 30 minutes. It’s a simple way to get a comforting dish on the table without much effort.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Italian Chopped Salad

Italian chopped salad in a bowl next to dressing.
Italian Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Italian chopped salad is full of fresh vegetables and tossed in a champagne vinaigrette. It’s a light, healthy choice for lunch or dinner that’s ready fast.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chopped Salad

Niçoise Salad

An image of vegan nicoise salad served on a big bowl.
Niçoise Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan Niçoise salad features chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and briny olives. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, it’s a fresh, filling choice for spring meals.
Get the Recipe: Niçoise Salad

Penne Pomodoro

An close up photo of cooked penne pomodoro in a pot.
Penne Pomodoro. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Penne Pomodoro is a budget-friendly pasta with fresh tomato flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy and practical meal for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pomodoro

Caesar Salad

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

This vegan Caesar salad has crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy toppings. A fresh and easy choice for a side dish or light lunch.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Veggie Taco Salad

An overhead image of veggie taco salad in a bowl with a fork.
Veggie Taco Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetarian taco salad has all the classic taco flavors without the meat. It’s a quick, balanced choice that’s great for busy spring weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Taco Salad

Veggie Pinwheels

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

These veggie pinwheels are packed with fresh vegetables and creamy hummus. A light snack or lunch that’s easy to throw together for spring days.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pinwheels

Simple Chopped Salad

An overhead image of vegan chopped salad in a bowl with a serving spoon in the middle.
Simple Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan chopped salad is fast to make with crisp, fresh vegetables. It’s a bright and simple option when you want something light and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Simple Chopped Salad

Vegan Drumsticks

An image of vegan drumsticks on a plate garnished with fresh green herbs and a lemon wedge.
Vegan Drumsticks. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These vegan drumsticks are a crunchy, plant-based take on a classic favorite. A fun way to mix things up and keep meals balanced.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Drumsticks

Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

A top-down view of stir-fried green beans with coconut on a white plate, accompanied by a white napkin and fork.
Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stir-fried green beans with coconut and Indian spices bring bold flavor to your table. It’s a quick, healthy side that pairs well with rice or flatbread.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

Garlic Kale Salad with Lemon

An overhead image of two bowls of lemon garlic kale salad.
Garlic Kale Salad with Lemon. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This garlic kale salad features pecorino, toasted pepitas, and green garlic confit dressing. It’s a bold choice for bringing fresh flavors to your spring salads.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Kale Salad with Lemon

Raw Carrot Salad

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

This raw carrot salad is crisp, fresh, and ready in just 10 minutes. It’s a quick, no-cook side that keeps meals light and simple.
Get the Recipe: Raw Carrot Salad

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

An image of roasted cabbage steaks on a serving plate.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted cabbage steaks are easy to make and ready in 35 minutes. A healthy side that brings fresh flavor to your spring meals without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Leek and Mushroom Pasta

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

Leek and mushroom pasta is creamy and light, packed with fresh herbs and cheeses. A one-pot dinner that’s ready in 40 minutes for an easy spring meal.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Mushroom Pasta

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

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

These crispy latkes mix grated potatoes and shaved Brussels sprouts. Served with avocado-lemon crema, they’re a great choice for brunch or spring lunches.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

A serving of Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan in a plate.
Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Maple Dijon chicken sheet pan dinner brings sweet and tangy flavors to roasted vegetables. It’s a quick, balanced meal that makes spring dinners simple.
Get the Recipe: Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

Lemon Greek Potatoes

Close-up image of lemon greek potatoes in a dish.
Lemon Greek Potatoes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Lemon Greek potatoes are baked until crisp with olive oil, oregano, and garlic. A fresh, flavorful side dish that’s ready in about an hour.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

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 salad with balsamic glaze, fresh basil, and cherry tomatoes keeps things simple. It’s a great way to let fresh spring ingredients shine.
Get the Recipe: Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Spring Gyros with Apricot Salsa

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

Gyros get a fresh update with apricot salsa, yogurt sauce, and pea sprouts. It’s a light, flavorful choice that’s perfect for spring gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Spring Gyros with Apricot Salsa

Egg and Cucumber Sandwiches

An egg and cucumber sandwich with pepper jack cheese, spring mix, and dill sauce is shown on a white plate over a rustic wooden cutting board.
Egg and Cucumber Sandwiches. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Egg and cucumber sandwiches bring together crisp cucumbers, hard-boiled eggs, and creamy dill sauce. A simple, fresh option for lunches or picnics.
Get the Recipe: Egg and Cucumber Sandwiches

Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Pasta primavera is packed with colorful, seasonal vegetables. It’s an easy way to bring fresh spring flavors to your table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Salmon and Fresh Vegetables with a Creamy White Wine Sauce

Salmon and Fresh Vegetables with a Creamy White Wine Sauce. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Salmon and fresh vegetables simmer in a light white wine sauce. A great springtime meal that’s quick to pull together and full of fresh flavor.
Get the Recipe: Salmon and Fresh Vegetables with a Creamy White Wine Sauce

Radicchio Endive Chicken Salad

Radicchio Endive Chicken Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Radicchio endive chicken salad with honey mustard dressing is crisp and refreshing. A good choice for warmer weather when salads start making a comeback.
Get the Recipe: Radicchio Endive Chicken 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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