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33 Dishes That Make Spring Feel Even More Special—Fresh Ingredients and Plenty of Sunshine on the Plate

Spring means longer days, fresh ingredients, and 33 dishes that make the most of both. Crisp greens, bright flavors, and lighter meals keep things fresh without sacrificing satisfaction. Whether it’s a simple dish with a handful of seasonal ingredients or something that looks fancier than it is, there’s no wrong way to enjoy the season. Sunshine on the plate? Absolutely. Just don’t forget sunscreen for the cook.

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.

Lemon Cake Pops

Lemon cake pops on a white plate.
Lemon Cake Pops. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Sweet, tangy, and impossible to resist, Lemon Cake Pops are the kind of treat that disappears fast. Bite-sized but big on flavor, they balance just the right amount of sweetness with a punchy citrus twist. Ideal for parties, afternoon cravings, or those moments when one slice of cake feels like too much commitment. Good luck stopping at just one.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pops

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Layers of thinly sliced potatoes, golden on the edges and creamy inside, make Au Gratin Potato Stacks a game-changer. They look fancy, but they’re just the right mix of crispy and rich without extra effort. Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions, they bring comfort in every bite. If potatoes had a way to show off, this would be it.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic and satisfying, Old Fashioned Ham Salad proves some recipes never go out of style. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with just the right amount of texture, it’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or straight from the spoon. Whether served at a picnic or in a lunchbox, it’s always a hit. Some foods just have a way of sticking around for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

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Lemon Goldies

Three square pieces of lemon goldies on a white plate.
Lemon Goldies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Somewhere between a brownie and a cake, Lemon Goldies bring all the bright citrus flavor in a chewy, sweet bite. They’re rich without being heavy, with just enough tartness to keep things interesting. Whether enjoyed with coffee, packed in a lunch, or sneaked as a late-night snack, they never disappoint. If lemon desserts had a fan club, these would be president.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Goldies

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

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

A classic brunch favorite gets a serious upgrade with layers of rich, smoky flavor. Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict combines hearty ingredients with a smooth, velvety finish that ties everything together. It’s the kind of dish that makes weekend mornings worth waking up for, even if the snooze button looks tempting. Just be warned—after one bite, regular eggs might never feel the same again.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

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.

A little crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with bold flavors, Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones turn an ordinary morning into something special. These are no dainty tea-time treats; they bring just the right mix of comfort and bite. Perfect as a quick snack or paired with a favorite meal, they don’t last long once they hit the table. Good luck eating just one.
Get the Recipe: Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones

Shirazi Salad

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

Refreshing and packed with vibrant flavors, Shirazi Salad is as much about texture as it is about taste. Crisp and light, it’s the perfect side that won’t weigh anything down. Whether paired with a hearty main or enjoyed on its own, it brings something fresh to every bite. If a salad could feel like sunshine, this would be it.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Mediterranean Chicken Bake with herbs, cheese and tomatoes in a platter.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bold flavors and a hearty texture make Mediterranean Chicken Bake an easy go-to for weeknight dinners. Packed with ingredients that complement each other perfectly, it’s a one-pan meal that delivers big on taste. Simple but not boring, it’s the kind of dish that makes cooking feel effortless. Leftovers? If there are any, they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

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.

Crisp, flaky, and packed with rich, savory goodness, Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets bring just the right balance of crunch and creamy texture. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a full spread, they hold their own without trying too hard. Each bite is layered with flavor, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering. If snack-sized elegance had a taste, this would be it.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Herbed potato salad on a white platter.
Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fresh, bright, and packed with flavor, Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic is a step up from the usual. Each bite has the perfect balance of creaminess and crunch, making it a side that stands out. Whether paired with grilled favorites or enjoyed on its own, it brings something new to the table. No backyard meal should be without it.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail

Two glasses of strawberry lillet crush with mint leaves.
Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Refreshing, crisp, and packed with a little something extra, Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail is the drink that brings everything together. Light enough for warm days but with enough punch to keep things interesting, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The mix of flavors is balanced just right—nothing too sweet, nothing too strong. One sip, and it feels like spring in a glass.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Round black dish filled with seasoned roasted potato wedges, placed on a white wooden surface alongside a white and yellow striped cloth napkin.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and packed with bold citrus flavor, Greek Lemon Potatoes are a side dish that refuses to be ignored. They hold their own next to any main, soaking up flavor without losing their texture. Perfect for big gatherings or quiet dinners, they’re proof that potatoes don’t need much to be great. No one stops at just one.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of cold crab dip with crackers and chives.
Cold Crab Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smooth, rich, and packed with seafood flavor, Cold Crab Dip is a go-to appetizer that disappears quickly. It’s creamy without being heavy, with just the right mix of textures to keep things interesting. Whether paired with crackers, veggies, or just a spoon, it’s always a hit. If bringing a dish to a party, this one guarantees an empty bowl.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Carrots au Gratin

A casserole dish filled with carrots au gratin.
Carrots au Gratin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked, Carrots au Gratin take an everyday vegetable and turn it into something worth talking about. The mix of textures gives every bite a balance of softness and crunch. Whether served as a side or the main event, it’s not just a plate-filler. If there’s a way to make carrots exciting, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Carrots au Gratin

Rhubarb Bread

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

Sweet, slightly tart, and just dense enough, Rhubarb Bread takes a classic ingredient and turns it into something worth waking up for. It’s perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a quick bite whenever something comforting is needed. The texture is just right—not too heavy, not too light—making it a great match with coffee or tea. If spring had a flavor, this would be in the running.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Bread

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies on a white plate with strawberries nearby.
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A cross between a cookie and a bite of classic shortcake, Strawberry Shortcake Cookies deliver everything in one portable treat. Soft, slightly crumbly, and packed with real fruit flavor, they make a strong case for skipping the fork. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or packed up for later, they bring the best of dessert without the extra work. Less mess, all the flavor—sounds like a win.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Juicy, smoky, and full of flavor, Smoked Carver Ham makes any meal feel like a special occasion. Whether served warm or cold, it holds its own with bold seasoning and a rich texture. Perfect for holiday feasts, casual dinners, or stacking on sandwiches, it’s a go-to for a reason. If leftovers make it to the next day, they won’t be around long.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche

A slice of Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche on a plate next to a glass of orange juice.
Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche is one of those dishes that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of cheeses makes each bite rich without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but requires no fuss. Serve it warm, cold, or straight from the fridge—it’s always good.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Hearty and fresh, Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes packs a mix of textures that keep every bite interesting. The combination of ingredients makes it satisfying enough to stand alone but light enough to pair with anything. Perfect for a quick lunch or an easy side, it’s proof that salads don’t have to be predictable. This one does the job without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

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

The comfort of a classic dessert meets the warmth of a breakfast favorite in Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Each bite combines the flavors of spiced apples with soft, gooey layers that make mornings better. Sweet, rich, and impossible to resist, they’re the kind of treat that disappears before the coffee is ready. If regular cinnamon rolls feel lonely, this is the answer.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Smoked Asparagus

Smoked asparagus on a white platter with lemon.
Smoked Asparagus. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Lightly smoky with a tender bite, Smoked Asparagus proves that simple ingredients can deliver bold flavor. The balance of earthiness and subtle char makes it a great side for just about anything. It’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but takes almost no effort. Just be ready for it to disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Asparagus

Strawberry Upside Down Cake

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

A sweet, jammy topping meets a soft, rich base in Strawberry Upside Down Cake, making it the kind of dessert that never gets old. Each bite balances fresh fruit flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s great for spring gatherings, weeknight treats, or just because. If flipping a cake always turned out this good, more people would try it.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms

Shortbread M&M cookies on a black plate with flowers.
Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Buttery, crisp, and packed with chocolate, Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms bring a little extra color to snack time. The simple base lets the mix-ins do the talking, with every bite offering just the right amount of sweetness. Great for parties, afternoon cravings, or sneaking a few straight from the jar. No one ever regrets grabbing another.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms

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.

Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and packed with natural sweetness, Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer prove that simple ingredients can still bring big flavor. No need for complicated steps—just a little time and the right heat. Great for a snack, side dish, or the main event if the craving hits. The hardest part is waiting for them to cool down.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Zucchini Bread

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

Moist, slightly sweet, and packed with just the right texture, Zucchini Bread is a classic for a reason. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon treat, it never disappoints. The balance of flavors makes it easy to eat slice after slice. If sneaking vegetables into dessert always tasted this good, no one would complain.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bread

Blueberry Rhubarb Muffins

Blueberry Rhubarb Muffins on a black plate with one muffin cut in half.
Blueberry Rhubarb Muffins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet, tart, and just the right amount of soft, Blueberry Rhubarb Muffins bring together two bold flavors in one easy bite. They’re great for breakfast, snacks, or freezing for later. Each bite balances fruitiness with a hint of richness, making them hard to resist. If muffin flavors had a best-kept secret, this might be it.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Rhubarb Muffins

Greek Spaghetti

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.
Greek Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light but packed with bold flavors, Greek Spaghetti turns a simple pasta dish into something unexpected. The mix of ingredients keeps things fresh without being heavy. Perfect for quick meals that still feel satisfying. If pasta could taste like a vacation, this would be it.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky, juicy, and covered in a bold glaze, Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze are anything but boring. The combination of flavors gives each bite just the right mix of sweet and heat. Whether straight off the grill or reheated the next day, they don’t lose their punch. Messy fingers? Worth it.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

A plate of asparagus with mascarpone and lemon.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A simple vegetable gets a creamy, rich upgrade in Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. The contrast between the roasted texture and smooth finish makes it stand out from the usual sides. Perfect for pairing with just about anything, it adds flavor without extra work. If asparagus always tasted this good, more people would ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Mango Curd

A jar of mango curd next to a mango and a mint leaf.
Mango Curd. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smooth, rich, and bursting with fruit flavor, Mango Curd is as versatile as it is delicious. Spread it on toast, drizzle it over desserts, or sneak a spoonful straight from the jar—it works every way. The balance of sweetness and tang makes it hard to resist. If there’s a better way to brighten up a dish, it’s hard to find.
Get the Recipe: Mango Curd

Mini Blueberry Muffins

Blueberry crumb muffins on a white plate.
Mini Blueberry Muffins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Small but packed with flavor, Mini Blueberry Muffins make snacking way too easy. Each bite delivers a soft, slightly sweet texture with bursts of fruit in every piece. Perfect for breakfast, lunchboxes, or just grabbing on the go. If they disappear quickly, there’s a reason.
Get the Recipe: Mini Blueberry Muffins

Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

A bowl of yellow bean and potato salad.
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light, fresh, and packed with texture, Yellow Bean & Potato Salad is anything but a basic side dish. The mix of ingredients keeps things interesting while staying simple enough to complement any meal. Great for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep for the week. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need much but delivers every time.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

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.

A crisp topping over a sweet and tart filling makes Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble a go-to spring dessert. The contrast of textures keeps every bite interesting, with just the right balance of fruit and crunch. It’s just as good warm as it is straight from the fridge the next day. If easy desserts could win awards, this one would be in the running.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble

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