For many of us, making the transition from winter to spring can be complicated. Depending on where you live, it may be too early to get a wide selection of fresh vegetables, but if you serve your family another bowl of "hearty soup," they might end up begging for takeout instead. But a happy medium does exist, which is why we've gathered a few tasty (and easy) spring recipes, with just enough winter comfort food flavor thrown in to help you make a smooth transition into spring. Grab your fork and let's dine in!
1. Roasted Vegetable Mac and Cheese
When you're looking for spring recipes, mac and cheese might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But for those dreary days full of spring showers, you can't fail with this warm comfort food classic. One of our favorite spring recipes is Roasted Vegetable Mac and Cheese. We gave this signature dish a nutritious spring boost–it still has the creamy, familiar taste of your momma's recipe, but packs in extra nutrients and flavor with savory roasted vegetables.
With just 25 minutes of prep time, this meal is ready and on the table in less than an hour. The recipe calls for broccoli and Brussels sprouts, but we think it tastes great with any roasted vegetable. Looking for a sweeter version? Try subbing in Birds Eye® Seasoned Garlic Cauliflower and Lightly Seasoned Sweet Potatoes for the broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Want to really spice things up? The Birds Eye Buffalo Style Cauliflower Wings bring in the peppery tang of classic hot wings, packed with nutritional benefits.
2. Pork Mole Street Tacos
Spice up your next taco night–Tuesday or otherwise – with a batch of pork tacos that bring that simmered-all-day taste to the table in about half an hour, thanks to smoky Red Mole Skillet Sauce from Frontera®. The recipe features crisp spring radishes as a garnish, and you can also up the crunch factor and sprinkle on some chopped red cabbage. And while they’re on the stove, make a batch of fresh, chunky guacamole and pair it with some tortilla chips. We love the heat factor in the Frontera Spicy Guacamole mix, but if you have younger eaters, split up the mashed avocados and make a separate batch of the original recipe, too.
3. BBT BISQUE
We know what you’re thinking: more soup? Hear us out before you run away and dial up that delivery app. Think of this like warm weather’s favorite sandwich, the good old BLT, given the cold weather treatment. This creamy tomato bisque is made with plenty of chopped smoked bacon for comfort food vibes, while sun-ripened Hunt’s® tomatoes and lots of fresh basil will have you daydreaming of sunny days and fresh garden veggies.
4. FARRO AND TOMATO SALAD
Made with a filling base of hearty, nutty farro, this nourishing dish is substantial enough for a vegetarian main meal. But with tangy feta, fresh, peppery arugula, and balsamic vinegar, it’s also laden with fresh, springy flavors that would complement any entree as a satisfying side.
5. CHIPOTLE-GLAZED CHICKEN & SWEET POTATO PAN SUPPER
Bold, smoky chipotle flavor is the key ingredient in this super-simple sheet pan dinner. It somehow simultaneously reminds you of warm-weather meals under the sun and provides smoky, belly-warming heat you need when there’s still a chill in the air. Top it all off with fresh cilantro and serve with extra Frontera® Chipotle Salsa for serious taco night vibes.
Eating with the seasons can be fun if you know how to do it. Each season provides its own unique flavor that allows you to experience a variety of tastes, textures, and flavors. The transitions don't have to be unbearable. They're an opportunity to mash things up and be creative. When it comes down to it, that's what cooking's all about.
