Springtime Meal Inspiration
Today I am going to share my spring inspired meal plan. As always, I try to keep the meals seasonal and in sync with what's growing in the garden. Springtime is a balance between using the last of what's been stored the previous year and enjoying the fresh foods coming into season. During the early months of spring there are only a few greens but slowly the garden offers more and more of her bounty.
Springtime Breakfast Ideas:
Soft Soiled Eggs lightly dusted with salt and pepper served with buttered toast - Soft boiled eggs bring back childhood memories. In the spring when the hens started to lay more eggs, my mom would often fill a pot full of eggs and soft boil them for our breakfast.
Overnight oats/Muesli - overnight oats or Muesli are perfect options for mornings when you're rushing out the door and need something quick. They're easy to make the night ahead and with so many variations you'll be sure to find a recipe that satisfies every breakfast craving.
Asparagus and Mozzarella Omelet served with a fresh bagel - adding seasonal produce like spring onions, asparagus, or kale to an omelet helps get me out of the "boring egg rut".
Cinnamon Raisin Toast smothered in Whipped Honey Butter - this may be a little on the indulgent side, but it's well worth the calories! You can find the recipe for the whipped honey butter here.
Fresh strawberries served with cream cheese and a bagel - can you tell I have a deep love for bagels?
Springtime Beverages:
Caleb's has been drinking a coffee substitute we found on Etsy with roasted dandelion, chicory, and cinnamon. It's been a nice switch from the caffeine and acidity in regular coffee. And although it's too bitter for me, I will say smells lovely!
Meadow tea - is a favorite of ours. This time of year, we have lots of mint growing and if you stop by, you can usually find a pot brewing on the stove. If you're interested in our recipe for Meadow Tea you can check it out here.
Lemonade - is also a fun springtime drink. I love to add fresh mint, lavender, or sparkling water for a fun lemonade twist.
Springtime Lunch Ideas:
Cold cut sub with potato chips and pickles - This is a great meal to pack for a picnic. Head to the great outdoors and enjoy lunch in nature!
Baby greens served with grilled chicken, tomatoes, avocado, mozzarella and dressing of choice - This has been my go-to salad for the last few weeks. I often don't even add the dressing.
Egg salad sandwich served with radishes and cucumbers - this is another great way to use up all the extra eggs you collect this time of year.
Tortellini Soup served with a side salad and baguette - My mother-in-law gave me a recipe for Tortellini Soup when Caleb and I got married. It has been one of our favorites. It has just the right balance of being light and yet very filling.
Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken served with rice, black beans, and "all the fixins" - grilled food is definitely one of our favorites over the spring and summertime.
Springtime Dinner Ideas:
Build your own Nachos - go ahead and add all the toppings! Cilantro and spring onions are in season making this meal a prime springtime option!
Vegetable Soup - time to clean out the freezer and make room for the new season's bounty. Vegetable soup is a great way to use up the little bits of leftover veggies hiding in the bottom of the fridge or freezer.
Seasonal Quiche or Frittata - yep, you guessed it, another egg-based recipe. Last week I made a quiche with fresh asparagus, bacon, and onions. It was a hit in our house!
Salmon Cakes served with rustic baby red mashed potatoes topped with butter and fresh herbs - Baby reds are my favorite potatoes! Topped with butter and herbs... it doesn't get much better!
Grilled mixed vegetables, steak, and pita bread served with a side of Tzatziki sauce - This Greek inspired meal takes a bit of preparation, but it is well worth the effort! Especially if you make homemade pita bread with fresh Tzatziki... sigh!
Springtime Desserts:
Ice Cream - homemade, store-bought, soft-serve, hand-dipped, chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, you really can't go wrong with any option!
Chocolate Mousse - creamy, chocolatey, goodness! Top with fresh raspberries for that classic sweet and tart blend!
Shortcake with fresh berries and milk - In our family there is a big debate as to whether you pour the milk over the shortcake or drink it while eating the shortcake. Which side are you on?
I hope you've found some meal-time inspiration from this post. Let me know your all-time favorite springtime foods in the comments.
Thanks for reading,
Abby
