17 spring recipes that’ll have you skipping the heavy meals and going all in on light, fresh flavors

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Forget meals that leave you ready for a nap—spring is about keeping things light but still worth the effort. These 17 recipes prove you don’t need heavy ingredients to make something worth craving. You’ll get all the fresh, easy bites without wondering why you suddenly need a couch break. Bonus: You might even have room for seconds, and that’s always a win.

A plate of asparagus with mascarpone and lemon.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. 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.

When you’re craving something sweet but want to keep it light, Lemon Cake Pops are the answer. They strike the perfect balance between indulgence and moderation. Sharing these with friends or family adds a fun twist to any gathering. Plus, their vibrant taste is like a burst of sunshine on a gloomy day.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pops

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.

If your stomach is growling for a savory snack, Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones have got you covered. These baked goods combine crunch with a dash of sharp and fresh notes. Ideal for a quick breakfast or as a side to your afternoon tea, they fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma. You’ll find them hard to resist, fresh out of the oven.
Get the Recipe: Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

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

For a dinner option that’s both easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, look no further than a Mediterranean Chicken Bake. This dish is a testament to how meals can be both healthful and packed with taste. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying but not too rich. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a family meal without overcomplicating things.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

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

Transforming a well-loved classic into something uniquely appealing, Au Gratin Potato Stacks are as fun to make as they are to eat. They offer perfectly portioned servings with a delicious crunch on the outside and a tender inside. Ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself, each bite is a new experience. This dish proves that sometimes, playing with your food is a good thing.
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.

Reminiscent of simpler times, Old Fashioned Ham Salad is a versatile and comforting dish. Whether you’re spreading it on a sandwich or scooping it up with crackers, it’s sure to please. This recipe is a lifesaver for using up leftovers in a creative way. It brings the tastes of family picnics right to your table.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Rhubarb Bread

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

With Rhubarb Bread, the unique tang of rhubarb is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. This bread is wonderfully moist and flavorful, ideal for those who love to bake and experiment. Enjoying a slice alongside your morning coffee or tea is pure bliss. It’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of spring into your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Bread

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.

Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche is a marvel for those who appreciate efficiency without sacrificing taste. This quiche is packed with good stuff yet feels light and easy on the stomach. It’s versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, solving mealtime dilemmas with ease. If you’re aiming for a fulfilling meal without the heavy feeling afterward, this quiche ticks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche

Mango Curd

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

If you have a penchant for sweets with a tropical flair, Mango Curd will not disappoint. This curd adds a rich, smooth texture and burst of freshness to any dessert. Its ease of preparation is matched only by its versatility. Dollop it on your favorite treat for an instant upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Mango Curd

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.

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes is your go-to for a meal that fills you up without weighing you down. This salad combines texture, taste, and nutrition in one dish. It’s especially handy for meal prep, as it keeps well and tastes just as fresh days later. For anyone monitoring their meal sizes but craving fullness, this salad delivers.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Mini Blueberry Muffins

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

Craving a tiny treat? Mini Blueberry Muffins pack a soft, fluffy, and fruity punch in a bite-sized format. They’re an enchanting choice for quick snacks or for a breakfast on the run. Don’t be surprised if these little delights become a regular in your baking rotation; they’re simply irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Mini Blueberry Muffins

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.

A vibrant side that brightens up any meal, Greek Lemon Potatoes are the perfect complement to your main dish. These potatoes come out of the oven with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. The refreshing kick in every bite makes them an excellent choice for balancing out more robust flavors. They’re sure to capture the spotlight at your dining table or any potluck gathering.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

With its inviting look and light touch, Wild Rice Salad fits perfectly into your spring dining scene. You’ll find it’s filling enough to be a mainstay for lunch, yet it also slides right in as a side dish at dinner. The ease of prep means you’re never tied down to the kitchen for long. And when the sun is shining, this is the kind of dish you want on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Whipped Feta

Whipped Feta on a black plate with grilled bread.
Whipped Feta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Snack time gets a creamy, dreamy twist with Whipped Feta, ideal for those who love a good dip. Spread it on a cracker, dollop it onto a plate of crudités, or just enjoy it straight off the spoon—no judgment here. It’s a cinch to prepare, and the smooth texture makes everything seem more indulgent. Go ahead, whip up a batch and watch it disappear at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta

California Eggs Benedict

Eggs benedict with ham and avocado on an English muffin served on a black plate.
California Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Brunch just isn’t the same without California Eggs Benedict, where a west coast spin transforms a familiar favorite. Gather your pals for a late-morning treat that’s as easy on the eyes as it is fulfilling. Each bite reminds you why brunch is the best meal of the day. It’s a scrumptious pick-me-up that’ll fuel you through all your plans.
Get the Recipe: California Eggs Benedict

Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail

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

Sometimes all you need is a chilled glass in hand, and Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail is just the ticket. Mixing it up is a breeze, which is exactly what you want when you’re chilling out or celebrating. Its brightness makes for the perfect sipper at any social shindig or solo relax session. Crack one open and let the good times roll.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail

Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche

Slices of Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche next to a whole pie.
Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re after something that hits the spot without the morning scramble, Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche steps up to the plate. It’s a solid choice for a laid-back weekend breakfast or a quick weeknight dinner. The no-fuss recipe means spending less time in the kitchen and more time digging into the good stuff. It’ll quickly become a go-to for a comforting meal any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

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

Level up your side dish game with Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone without breaking a sweat. It’s a snap to roast up, which is exactly what you need on those busy days. The creamy addition makes every bite seem like a treat. It’s the kind of dish that makes the most of what the season has to offer—straightforward, yet utterly satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

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