It’s finally full-on spring here in Denver (although I’m waiting for the last random snow storm we will certainly get). Spring cooking for me is always a good mix of fast recipes and lighter fare.
This list is some of my absolute favorite recipes to make as you kick off your spring season. Some are salads, some are grilled recipes, most of them can be either lunch or dinner depending on your mood.
Find something on this list and kick off spring!
Easy Crab and Avocado Salad
This salad is so light and delicious. It’s a perfect appetizer for summer and super easy to toss together. Enjoy!
Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad
This Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad recipe is packed with fresh strawberries and goat cheese and a few other crunchy add-ins and finished with a balsamic glaze.
Roasted Carrot Salad with Lentils
This huge roasted carrot salad features some of my favorite ingredients including garam masala lentils, goat cheese, walnuts, and a zippy coconut dressing. Great for lunches!
Ultimate Chicken Salad Sandwich
I’ve tried dozens of different add-in combinations for chicken salad and this ultimate version is the perfect mix of add-ins. You’ll never need another chicken salad sandwich recipe!
Pesto Quinoa Salad
Quinoa mixed with a bunch of veggies, some feta, and a nice homemade pesto makes for a great weekday lunch dish!
Easy Falafel Salad
This is one of the easiest and freshest salads I’ve made. It keeps great for days and makes great lunches or side dishes.
Broccoli Crunch Salad
This broccoli crunch salad is a healthy addition to any dinner or lunch and is packed with crunchy ingredients like apples, peanuts, and celery.
Summer Salad Sandwiches
Salad sandwiches inspired by April Bloomfield. A great use for in-season crispy veggies plus a tangy salad cream dressing.
Summer Chia Bowls
These healthy and filling chia bowls are a great way to start any hot day. Make the chia pudding in advance and add it to yogurt with ALL the summer fruit. Enjoy!
How to Grill a Whole Fish
Grilling a whole fish can seem intimidating but it’s actually a fast and easy way to make a healthy meal. Learn how to do it right!
Lemony Tuna Salad with Capers
Not your boring tuna salad. This one is packed with crunchy veggies and bright lemons and capers. Great on salad or in sandwich form!
Grilled Citrus Chicken Recipe with Citrus Glaze
A bright glaze on this grilled chicken makes this chicken really light and perfect for a spring dinner or you can slice it up and serve it on a salad.
Rainbow Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This bright and colorful salad is packed with delicious add-ins including edamame, chickpeas, mango, blueberries, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It just might be the best lunch salad ever!
Shaved Zucchini Salad
Zucchini salad made from paper-thin shavings of zucchini with toasted pine nuts, basil, and Parmesan cheese. This is always a hit and very easy to make! Be ready to serve it right away though. It doesn’t keep well.