29 Spring Recipes That Will Make You Want To Eat Outside

When the weather’s nice, eating indoors feels like a missed opportunity. These spring recipes are light, simple, and just the right kind of messy for a picnic table. Great for lazy weekends, random Tuesdays, or any day you pretend to be outdoorsy. And yes, ants may show up—but honestly, that’s on them.

Leg of Lamb

If you’re planning a fancy picnic or just a chill meal outdoors, Leg of Lamb is where it’s at. You’ll have everyone impressed and full with this choice. It’s not as hard to make as you might think. Plus, it pairs well with a bunch of sides.
Get the Recipe: Leg of Lamb

Cobb Salad

Cobb Salad is like a party in a bowl, perfect for a sunny day outside. It’s packed with goodies that will keep you coming back for more. This salad is a crowd-pleaser and works as a meal by itself. It’s fresh, satisfying and you can tweak it to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

Craving something with a bit of a kick? Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!) has got you covered. It’s a no-brainer for a quick dinner that packs a punch. Skip the take-out and whip this up for an outdoor feast.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Everyone loves a good salad, but Hot Honey Chicken Salad takes it to another level. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and spicy. Ideal for a lunch out in the sun, it’s a real game-changer. Plus, it’s a great way to spruce up your chicken game.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Egg Bites

When you need a quick, protein-packed start to the day, Egg Bites are your go-to. These little guys are game changers for your morning routine. Perfect for on-the-go, they’re also great for a leisurely breakfast outside. They’re customizable, so everyone’s happy.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Ice Cream Cake

Think outside the box for your next dessert with Ice Cream Cake. This is a surefire hit for any outdoor gathering. It’s cool, it’s sweet, and oh-so-fun to eat. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love ice cream and cake together? It’s the kind of treat that gets eaten faster than you can say “save me a slice.”
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

If you’re tired of the same old side dishes, Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice will shake things up. It’s simple but can totally transform a meal. Great as a side for a bunch of dishes, especially if you’re eating outside. Plus, it smells amazing while it’s cooking.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Tuscan Pasta

Tuscan Pasta brings the vibes of Italy right to your plate. It’s hearty, packed with flavors, and super comforting. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner outside or a special occasion, this dish has got you covered. And honestly, it’s just really good pasta.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

For a fresh start to any meal, you can’t go wrong with Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing. It’s light, sweet, and the perfect side dish for any outdoor meal. The dressing takes it to a new level. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any fruit you have lying around.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Italian Pasta with Salami

Italian Pasta with Salami is for those days when you just need something hearty and filling. It’s easy to throw together and perfect for a sunny meal outdoors. The salami brings a nice punch to the dish. And let’s be real, pasta always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Fruity Pebbles Donuts

Want something fun and a bit different? Fruity Pebbles Donuts are a blast to make and eat. They’re colorful, sweet, and perfect for an outdoor breakfast or brunch. Plus, who can say no to donuts that look like a rainbow? They’ll disappear faster than you can say “just one more.”
Get the Recipe: Fruity Pebbles Donuts

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Caprese Pesto Tarts are a no-brainer for an impressive, yet easy appetizer. They’re simple to make, look fancy, and taste amazing. Perfect for when you want to snack on something outside. And who doesn’t love the combo of tomato, mozzarella, and pesto?
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Best Lemon Pasta

This dish is the light and fresh dish you’ve been looking for. Best Lemon Pasta is quick to make, which means more time enjoying the outdoors. The lemon keeps it fresh and bright. Perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner outside.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Carrot Cake

Carrot Cake is an all-around winner for any outdoor dessert situation. It’s moist, it’s rich, and it’s downright delicious. Perfect for sharing (or not), it’s a classic that never disappoints. Plus, it just feels right eating it in the fresh air.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

Italian Dressing

A good dressing can make or break a salad, and Italian Dressing is a surefire winner. It’s versatile and can be used on more than just salads. Whip up a batch for your next outdoor meal. It’s simple, but it packs a punch of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

If you’re into meals that both feel light and filling, you’ll want to give Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe a shot. It’s the kind of dish that’s cool for a relaxed meal outside. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Plus, it’s always a hit when you want something not too heavy but still packs a punch in taste.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Lemon Bars

Nothing screams spring quite like Lemon Bars. They’re just right for enjoying in the sunshine with a cup of tea or coffee. Bright, tangy, and just sweet enough to hit the spot without being overbearing. It’s the perfect end to any outdoor meal or a treat to enjoy any time of the day.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Vegetable Fritters

Vegetable Fritters are the way to go when you’re looking for a vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on personality. They’re crispy, hearty, and an awesome way to enjoy whatever veggies you’ve got hanging around. Great for a light lunch or a side dish when dining al fresco. Plus, they’re fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Cherry Cheesecake

This is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Perfect for indulging after a meal enjoyed outside. It’s got that creamy texture and the sweetness of cherries that everyone loves. Really, Cherry Cheesecake is a classic for a reason and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

Cilantro Lime Rice

There’s something about Cilantro Lime Rice that just fits when you’re eating outside. It’s light, it’s refreshing, and it complements so many different dishes. Perfect as a side or under your favorite grilled dish. Honestly, it makes any outdoor meal feel a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Strawberry Pancakes

Start your outdoor brunch with some Strawberry Pancakes and you won’t be disappointed. They’re the perfect mix of sweet and satisfying without being too heavy. Ideal for lazy weekend mornings when all you want is something easy and comforting. Plus, who doesn’t love strawberries?
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pancakes

Vegetable Stir Fry

When you’re looking for something quick and nourishing, Vegetable Stir Fry is your best friend. It’s all about getting those fresh veggies in a meal that’s super versatile. Good for an easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on health. It’s a real winner for any outdoor dining setup.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

There’s nothing quite like a slice of Strawberry Rhubarb Pie to make it feel like spring. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Ideal for an afternoon treat or a special occasion dessert. Trust me, it hits just right when enjoyed outside with a scoop of ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Morel Mushroom Pasta

For a fancy yet easy dish, try Morel Mushroom Pasta. It’s rich, it’s hearty, and it feels like a treat. Perfect for those nights when you want to dine under the stars without too much fuss. It’s seriously good and a nice break from the usual pasta dishes.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Pea and Mint Soup

Fresh and light, Pea and Mint Soup offers a cool, refreshing taste that’s ideal for a breezy day. The mint adds a nice kick that’s not overwhelming but just right. It’s perfect as a starter or a light meal when you’re dining al fresco. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, which means more time enjoying the outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

Mushroom Pizza

Mushroom Pizza is a solid choice when you’re craving something hearty but not too heavy. It’s simple to toss together, and who doesn’t love a good pizza outside? The earthy tones of the mushrooms make it a real crowd-pleaser. Fire up your outdoor oven or grill to get that perfect crispy crust.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Switch up your dessert game with Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies—they’re a fresh twist on a classic treat. They mix tangy raspberries with sweet white chocolate, creating a perfect match. Cut them into squares, pack them up, and you’re all set for eating out in the park. They’re sure to disappear fast among your friends.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is all about embracing the fresh feels of the season. It’s packed with veggies and dressed in a light sauce that doesn’t overpower. It’s just the thing for a peaceful meal outside on a sunny day. Gather your friends, whip up this pasta, and you’re good for an unforgettable outdoor feast.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Fruit Pizza

For a fun twist, try this Fruit Pizza at your next picnic. It’s colorful and fresh, making it a hit, especially if you’ve got kids around. The sweet, fruity toppings make it a hit and it’s super easy to put together. Just slice it up and watch it disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza