After a particularly gray and gloomy winter, spring is finally upon us. The days are longer, the weather is finally in light jacket season, and we have tons of fresh produce to look forward to. Although we love the root vegetables from fall and winter as much as the next person, there’s something about hitting the farmer’s market and scooping up bright, fresh springtime produce.
This season, we’re particularly excited about artichokes, spinach, asparagus, rhubarb, and potatoes, to name a few. Not only is in-season produce usually tastier, but it’s also often cheaper. To get the most out of our seasonal produce, check out these delicious appetizers perfect for springtime brunches, rooftop gatherings, dinner parties—or however else you choose to celebrate the season. We recommend enjoying with a fresh mocktail in hand.
Greek yogurt spinach artichoke dip
Spinach and artichokes are in season, which means one thing: spinach and artichoke dip! We know that restaurant versions (while delicious) can be packed with calories and fat, which might interfere with your weight loss or health goals. Try this lightened-up version from Fit Mitten Kitchen made with Greek yogurt (bonus: extra protein)—but don’t worry, there’s still mozzarella and parmesan cheese, spinach dip musts!
Baked parmesan asparagus fries
Asparagus is also in season, and if you’re sick of the same old grilled or roasted asparagus, try covering them in panko breadcrumbs and parm and sticking them in the oven. These baked parmesan asparagus fries from Kirbie’s Cravings are a great way to get in a serving of veggies but still satisfy that French fry craving. She suggests enjoying them with your favorite dipping sauce—marinara or garlic aioli are equally delicious.
Pineapple mango salsa
Did you know pineapples and mangoes are both in season during the spring? Why not combine them and make this fresh pineapple mango salsa from JZ Eats. She mentions how this would be a great topper for shrimp tacos, or to scoop into your favorite tortilla chip.
Pea bruschetta
Sure, bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil is always a hit, but with peas in season, mix it up with this pea bruschetta recipe from Sprinkles and Sprouts. When mashed, peas are nice and creamy, especially when they’re mixed with parmesan as this recipe calls for. Plus, peas have a decent amount of protein to make this recipe more filling than traditional crostinis.
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Strawberry and spinach salad
Another way to get in some seasonal green foods is with a strawberry and spinach salad, like this one from A Mind Full Mom. The recipe includes toasted almonds and feta cheese, but the real star of the show is the homemade poppy seed dressing. This is the perfect starter or side to any main meal, or tasty on its own for a light lunch with some added protein.
Baked asparagus, goat cheese, and prosciutto puff pastry
We’re sure you’re familiar with bacon-wrapped asparagus, but have you tried baked asparagus, goat cheese, and prosciutto puff pastry like this one from Grilled Cheese Social? This recipe is surprisingly easy to assemble, and will surely impress your guests. Everything in moderation, remember?
Rosemary roasted potatoes
Potatoes are also in season in the spring, and we love how versatile this root veggie is. You can never go wrong with any recipe made with potatoes, but we are particularly intrigued to try this rosemary roasted potato recipe from Two Sleevers. It uses our trusty air fryer, which we love, and the result is a batch of golden, crispy potatoes using half the oil. Serve as an app with toothpicks and sauce for dipping.
Goat cheese crostini with rhubarb chutney
We normally think of rhubarb as something you bake into desserts, but try something tangy and savory with this goat cheese crostini with rhubarb chutney recipe from Happy Kitchen. Rhubarb is in season, and this chutney is so versatile—try it on a charcuterie board or on a toasted sandwich.
Roasted baby artichokes with lemon garlic dipping sauce
Artichokes can be a delicious finger food with this roasted baby artichokes with lemon garlic dipping sauce recipe from Bobby’s Kozy Kitchen. Use fresh, in-season artichokes and pop them in the oven for a healthy appetizer or side dish everyone will love.
For more healthy recipe inspiration, check out Noom Weight today!
