With the days becoming much warmer, many of us will be embracing the freshness of spring in our kitchens and opting for lighter meals. In this blog, we will be sharing some filling yet light dinner ideas that are both easy to make and also healthy and hearty. From vibrant salads to comforting pasta dishes, these recipes will invigorate your taste buds and prepare you for the sunny days ahead.
Spring Vegetable Risotto
We’re starting our list with a simple yet substantial meal. Begin by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add Arborio (risotto) rice and stir until translucent. Gradually pour in vegetable broth, and some white wine if desired, while stirring continuously. As the rice cooks, incorporate some spring vegetables such as asparagus, peas, and baby spinach. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of flavour.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Grill until perfectly charred and juicy. If you don’t have a grill, you can pop them in the oven at 220C (200C fan) for around 20 minutes. Serve alongside a colourful salad of mixed greens, sliced strawberries, and toasted walnuts tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.
Spring Pea and Mint Soup
In a large pot, sauté chopped onions and celery until soft. Add fresh or frozen peas, vegetable broth, and a handful of mint leaves. Simmer until the peas are tender, then blend until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a dollop of Greek yoghurt for extra creaminess. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Roasted Spring Vegetable Platter
This makes a great meal for one, or even a side dish for the grilled lemon herb chicken. Preheat your oven and toss a variety of spring vegetables such as carrots, radishes, and new potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast until golden and caramelised. Arrange on a platter and serve with a tangy tzatziki-style yoghurt dip flavoured with lemon zest, garlic, and chopped fresh herbs.
Pasta Primavera
Cook your favourite pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté an assortment of spring vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, courgette, and bell peppers in olive oil. Toss the cooked pasta with the vegetables, a splash of white wine, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Combine fresh spinach leaves with sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted almonds. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze made by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until thick and syrupy. This salad strikes the perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and tangy flavours.
Springtime Trifle
Who could forget dessert? For a delightfully light final course, start by preparing or buying a simple sponge cake, and cut into cubes. In a bowl, mix together some berries such as strawberries and raspberries. In another bowl, whip some double cream with a touch of icing sugar until soft peaks form. Assemble the trifle by layering the sponge cake at the bottom with a layer of custard and whipped cream on top. Spoon some of the mixed berries on top of the whipped cream layer and repeat until you reach the top of the glass or dish, finishing with a final layer of whipped cream and a few whole berries for decoration. Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavours to combine.These springtime dinner ideas are not only delicious but also showcase the variety of fruits and veg that spring has to offer. Join us today for locally sourced fruit, veg, and other produce with free delivery on all orders.