Originally published May 2021
The local farmers market opened this week, and I was giddy, to say the least. Maybe it’s the fact that we’ve spent the last year (plus) avoiding all things or the fact that the weather has just gotten warm enough to enjoy some semblance of normalcy again. Either way, the moment I saw those green tented stands lining our local park, my wheels started turning when it came to all the delicious, produce-rich farmers market recipes I’d be making.
As someone who primarily eats plant-based foods (or tries to, anyway!) I love a good farmers market. (Plus, I appreciate supporting small family farms and sustainable practices while I’m at it!) On this week’s shopping trip, I focused my attention on seasonal vegetables like asparagus, artichokes, and spinach (aka all greens!) along with sweeter additions like cherries, raspberries, and rhubarb.
Inspired by this product, I’m sharing five simple spring gardener recipes to add to your recipe list.
1. Almond, Arugula and Pesto Bowls
Written by Sarah Forte for Sprouted Kitchen
I’m a big fan of the dishes. After spending the past year working from home, I’ve been using my lunch hour to craft the perfect combination of grains, veggies, and toppings that was not only nutritious, but delicious (which is key!). The moment I saw this delicious gluten-free product with a variety of seasonal vegetables, I knew where my latest produce from the farmers market was going.
Better yet, this recipe can be tailored to the ingredients you have on hand, as well as any dietary preferences. Do you have some eggs on hand? Throw a boiled one on top! Do you need to use up the rest of your arugula? Add it too. The options are endless when it comes to building a beautiful bowl that you’ll want to eat again and again.
2. Spinach and artichoke pizza
Written by Lindsey Ostrom for Pinch Of Yum
Hey, perfect recipe for date night! Elevate your favorite margherita pizza with something a little more spring-appropriate. Author Lindsay Ostrom relies on seasonal vegetables — spinach and artichokes — in this dish for a recipe so delicious, she claims it’s repeated in her kitchen. Bonus! It only takes twenty minutes to create. Yes please!
3. Niçoise spring salad
Written by Jessica Merchant for How Sweet Eats
Niçoise salad, but make it spring. I love this French-inspired dish that works great as a main or savory side dish for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! What sets this recipe apart from traditional recipes is that it’s filled with spring vegetables like green beans, asparagus, potatoes, and radishes. Add classic toppings like fresh dill, olive oil, and hard-boiled eggs to the dish and you’ll have a produce party with plenty of flavors that will please every hungry eater. (Spoiler alert: Just wait until you bite into this texture!)
4. Spring vegetable pasta
Written by Lexi Harrison For the busy kitchen
What’s an all-in-one recipe without a pasta feature? This mother-daughter duo is back with a drool-worthy dish that’s perfectly in keeping with the season. In addition to the comforting carbs, you’ll find leeks, asparagus, and peas, all tossed in a lemony white wine sauce and topped with breadcrumbs. With a spoonful of produce in every bite, this pasta is light, warm and weather-friendly. It’s also vegan!
5. Blueberry cobbler
Written by Jocelyn Delke Adams for Grandbaby Cakes
And for our grand finale, we have this decadent dessert. I constantly crave cobbler because of its unobtrusive crust and sticky, fruity interior. As for this recipe, its creator, Jocelyn, once asked me that it only takes three simple steps to prepare. Simply prepare the blueberries, layer the topping, and pop them in the oven to bake! If you’re looking for the perfect excuse to use up all those fresh and frozen berries that are taking over the market, this is it!
Sarah Schuh is a copywriter and freelance writer living in Chicago. She loves idioms, alliteration, and any excuse to use emojis. 😊 Even though she’s not copywriting, she’s enjoying life as a new mom (to daughter Charlotte, born November 2020). Visit her site where she shares honest parenting inspiration and insight at www.sarahschuh.com.
