Spring Holiday Recipes | Fresh, Flavorful Dishes to Celebrate the Season

Spring is a season of renewal, and what better way to celebrate the season than with fresh, vibrant dishes that reflect the flavors of the season? Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or simply enjoying the longer days, these spring holiday recipes are packed with seasonal produce and bright flavors. From light appetizers to refreshing desserts, these dishes will bring joy to your table and celebrate the bounty of spring.

1. Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken

Roasted chicken is a classic choice for a holiday meal, and this recipe infuses the bird with fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic for a bright, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a spring celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
• 2 lemons, quartered
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the giblets from the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Stuff the chicken with the quartered lemons, minced garlic, and some of the fresh herbs.
4. Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and the remaining herbs.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
6. Roast for 1.5-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

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2. Spring Vegetable Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This vibrant spring salad combines fresh seasonal vegetables like peas, asparagus, and radishes, tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing, healthy dish that’s perfect for your holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup sugar snap peas, halved
• 1 cup radishes, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the asparagus and sugar snap peas in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large bowl, combine the asparagus, peas, radishes, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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3. Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a comforting side dish, and adding fresh herbs like parsley and chives gives them a burst of fresh spring flavor. These mashed potatoes will be a hit at your spring holiday dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the potatoes to a boil in salted water. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, butter, parsley, and chives.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

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4. Spring Pea and Mint Risotto

This creamy risotto, with its fresh spring peas and mint, is a perfect side dish for a spring holiday meal. The combination of creamy rice, vibrant peas, and minty freshness will elevate your meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the rice is lightly toasted.
3. Add the white wine and cook until absorbed.
4. Gradually add the warm vegetable broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth.
5. Once the rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes), stir in the peas, mint, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

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5. Lemon and Poppy Seed Muffins

These light, fluffy muffins are infused with lemon and poppy seeds, creating a refreshing and flavorful treat. They’re perfect for Easter brunch or as a light dessert after your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, vegetable oil, lemon zest and juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin tin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before serving.

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6. Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

For a sweet and tangy dessert, strawberry rhubarb crisp is the perfect choice. The tart rhubarb pairs wonderfully with the sweet strawberries, and the oat topping adds a delicious crunch. It’s a fantastic way to showcase the flavors of spring.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix together strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the fruit.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
6. Let cool slightly before serving with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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7. Spring Berry Salad with Honey-Lemon Dressing

A light and refreshing berry salad is a perfect dessert or side dish to complement your holiday meal. This salad features a mix of fresh spring berries and a simple honey-lemon dressing for added sweetness and zing.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup blackberries
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine all of the berries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and lemon juice to make the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the berries and toss gently to coat.
4. Garnish with fresh mint and serve immediately.

Conclusion

Spring holidays are the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant dishes that showcase the best of seasonal ingredients. From light and refreshing salads to hearty mains and indulgent desserts, these spring holiday recipes will help you create a memorable meal that celebrates the flavors of the season. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a small, intimate dinner, these dishes are sure to bring joy to your table and make your holiday celebration even more special. Enjoy the fresh, bright flavors of spring!