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17 Dishes That Celebrate Spring—Fresh Ingredients, Vibrant Flavors, and a Whole Lot of Sunshine on a Plate

Spring calls for fresh, bold meals, and these 17 dishes bring all the vibrant flavors without the fuss. Light, rich in taste, and full of life, they make the most of the season with simple ingredients that shine. Whether you’re craving something crisp or a little different, there’s plenty to shake up the usual routine. If food could match the energy of a sunny day, this would be it.

Oven-roasted asparagus on a bed of mascarpone, topped with toasted garlic, nuts, and lemon zest, served on a black slate platter.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Watergate Salad (Watergate Fluff Salad)

A spoonful of Watergate salad garnished with a cherry, is held over a bowl.
Watergate Salad (Watergate Fluff Salad). Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

You ever find yourself wanting something sweet but not the usual stuff? Mix it up with a classic that brings a twist to your dessert ideas. Watergate Salad (Watergate Fluff Salad) is all about reimagining dessert with a fluffy, unique texture that’s always a hit at gatherings. Honestly, it’s a conversation starter about why it’s called a salad when it’s clearly in the dessert camp.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad (Watergate Fluff Salad)

Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

A sweet potato on a plate with a fork.
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Need a side dish that’s both easy to make and delicious? Give your meal an upgrade with Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. This dish is a game-changer for those who love a good crunch without all the hassle. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll never look at sweet potatoes the same way again.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Zucchini Bread

Sliced Zucchini Bread.
Zucchini Bread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who said bread has to be boring? Zucchini Bread effortlessly takes your bread game to a whole new level, offering a unique twist. It’s perfect for those mornings when you’re looking for something easy yet incredibly fulfilling to start your day with. Plus, it’s a clever, sneaky way to incorporate some veggies for the pickier eaters in your family.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bread

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Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Seafood Stuffed Salmon on a circular white plate.
Seafood Stuffed Salmon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re feeling a bit fancy and seafood is on your mind, Seafood Stuffed Salmon is the way to go. It combines the richness of salmon with a surprise element that makes every bite interesting. Great for a special dinner; it’s bound to impress anyone who tries it. And honestly, it’s simpler to make than it sounds.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

An apple cinnamon roll on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine the smell of freshly baked goods filling up your kitchen. Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls bring together the comforting aroma of apple pie with the irresistible texture of cinnamon rolls. Whether it’s for breakfast or a treat, these rolls are perfect for those cozy moments at home. They’re like a warm hug on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

cooked smoked chicken legs with red pepper glaze on a white serving platter
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sometimes, you just need a good chicken recipe to spice things up. Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze will not disappoint with its rich flavors and perfect glaze. It’s the kind of dish that makes you look forward to dinner all day. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to venture into smoking meats if you’re new to it.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Mediterranean Cod

A rectangular plate with Mediterranean Cod placed on a lemon-patterned cloth. A vine of cherry tomatoes is beside the plate.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for something light yet full of rich taste? Mediterranean Cod brings the essence of the sea with a refreshing twist. It’s an ideal choice for those evenings when you want a dish that’s gratifying without being too heavy. And the best part? It transports you to a coastal Mediterranean escape—no passport needed.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something wonderfully fresh and beautifully light? Shirazi Salad is the perfect choice. It’s packed with bright flavors and brings the same lively energy as a sun-drenched garden. This vibrant dish is a must-have for anyone who loves adding a crisp, refreshing element to their meal. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it an ideal last-minute addition to any table.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Strawberry Upside Down Cake with a slice missing.
Strawberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let’s talk about flipping dessert expectations completely upside down. Strawberry Upside Down Cake isn’t just visually appealing; it’s also incredibly delicious and insanely good. It’s exactly the type of cake that gets people talking, sparks conversation and has everyone asking for seconds. It’s perfect for when you want to end your meal on a memorably high note.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones

Bacon, Cheddar, Green Onion Scones on a black plate.
Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever thought scones were only meant for tea time? Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones prove that they can be hearty, rich in flavor, and perfect for any moment of the day. These flavorful bites bring a delicious twist to the usual selection of baked goods, adding a touch of excitement to every bite. Ideal for sharing—though you might just want to keep them all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets with lemon wedges on a black plate.
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for something that screams elegance but is actually simple to make? Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets could be your new secret weapon for impressing guests without breaking a sweat. They’re light, packed with flavor, and the phyllo adds a delectable crunch. These tartlets are a surefire way to refine any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Rhubarb Bread

A loaf of Rhubarb Bread with a few slices on a white plate.
Rhubarb Bread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tired of the usual banana or spiced loaf? Rhubarb Bread brings a wonderfully enjoyable twist to homemade baking, offering a subtle tang that’s unexpectedly refreshing. It’s also a great conversation starter, as many haven’t tried rhubarb in this way. With its distinctive flavor combination, this bread has the potential to become a new go-to favorite.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Bread

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Two pulled pork eggs benedict on a plate with sauce.
Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Why settle for an ordinary breakfast when you can have something extraordinary? Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict takes your brunch game to a whole new level. It combines the tenderness of pulled pork with the classic elements of eggs benedict for a meal that’s hard to forget. Perfect for lazy Sundays or when you want to treat yourself.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Braised potatoes in a pan after cooking.
Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Side dishes often get overlooked, but Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes refuse to be an afterthought. They’re the perfect combination of comforting and fragrant, making them an ideal accompaniment to any main dish. Seriously, they might just steal the show. So, be prepared for everyone to ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Turkey Roll Roast

A piece of roasted turkey on a cutting board with a knife.
Turkey Roll Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both hearty and perfect for feeding a crowd, Turkey Roll Roast might be just what you need. It offers a creative twist on the classic turkey, making it an excellent choice when you’re in the mood for something a little different. Not to mention, it’s deeply fulfilling and sure to impress any dinner guest. This is comfort food with a touch of originality.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Roast

Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble

A cast iron skillet with strawberry rhubarb cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a wooden surface with a cloth napkin beside it.
Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sometimes, you just need a dessert that brings comfort and brightness to the table. Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble does just that with its perfect balance of tart and sweet. It’s an ideal way to end any meal, especially when served warm. This dessert is like the perfect ending to a great day.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Oven-roasted asparagus on a bed of mascarpone, topped with toasted garlic, nuts, and lemon zest, served on a black slate platter.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking to add a touch of class to your vegetable sides? Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone brings together simplicity with a hint of elegance. It’s ridiculously easy to make but adds a sophisticated flair to any meal. Honestly, it’s a side dish that might just overshadow the main course with its perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

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