During the spring season, there is an abundance of fruits and vegetables that are in season and ready to be used in delicious dishes. The Department of Agriculture has provided a list of 27 fruits and vegetables that are in season during spring, including apricots, asparagus, avocados, apples, bananas, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, celery, collard greens, garlic, herbs, kale, kiwifruit, lemons, lettuce, limes, mushrooms, onions, peas, pineapples, radishes, rhubarb, spinach, strawberries, Swiss chard, and turnips. These fruits and vegetables can be used to create a variety of meals and snacks that celebrate the flavors of spring.
Apricots can be used to make a delicious topping for salads, jams, or grilled skewers. Asparagus pairs well with meat dishes and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, blanching, or roasting. Avocados are a versatile fruit that can be used to make guacamole, top sandwiches or salads, or create avocado toast for a healthy breakfast option. Apples, another fruit in season during spring, can be chopped up and added to salads or wraps, or used in sweet dishes like caramel apple slices. Bananas are a filling and healthy fruit that can be added to fruit salads, smoothies, or used in baked goods like banana bread or muffins.
Other vegetables that are in season during spring include broccoli, cabbage, carrots, celery, collard greens, garlic, kale, mushrooms, onions, peas, radishes, spinach, Swiss chard, and turnips. These vegetables can be used in a variety of dishes, from side dishes to salads to main courses. For example, cabbage can be used to make coleslaw or stir-fry, carrots can be added to chili or salads, and celery can be used as a snack with hummus or incorporated into dishes like “ants on a log”. Fresh garlic and herbs can be used to season a wide variety of dishes, adding depth and flavor to meals.
Lemons and limes can be used to add a citrusy kick to dishes like salad dressings, cheesecakes, or cocktails. Pineapples are a refreshing snack that can be enjoyed on its own or added to dishes like skewers, tacos, or flatbread pizza. Radishes can be included in tacos, salads, or grilled as a side dish. Rhubarb, another spring vegetable, can be used in stews or smoothies. Spinach, strawberries, and Swiss chard are other fruits and vegetables that are in season during spring and can be used in a variety of dishes, from desserts to main courses.
Overall, the abundance of fruits and vegetables that are in season during the spring provides a great opportunity to create delicious and healthy meals and snacks that celebrate the flavors of the season. Whether used in salads, main courses, or desserts, these seasonal fruits and vegetables can add variety and freshness to your spring meals. By incorporating these fresh ingredients into your cooking, you can create dishes that are not only tasty but also nutritious and satisfying.
