Spring-inspired Cooking Starts Here With 29 Bright Recipes

Spring is a great time to brighten up meals with some new recipes. With 29 fresh options to try, cooking feels more like an adventure. Each dish brings a bit of spring’s joy right to the table. Why stick to old habits when there are so many wonderful ways to mix things up?

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Shrimp Scampi

Close-up of cooked shrimp seasoned with herbs and black pepper.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Light up your dinner table with Shrimp Scampi, a dish that brings a little indulgence to your weekday meals. It’s got garlic, it’s got butter, and of course, it’s got shrimp. It’s a straightforward dish that never fails to please. Whether it’s a special occasion or just because, it’s always a welcome treat.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad

Roasted beetroot and feta salad in a bowl, with a light pink cloth around it.
Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Amp up your salad game with Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad, a dish that’s as vibrant in taste as it is in color. The combination of sweet beetroot with the salty feta is something your palate will thank you for. It’s one of those salads that makes you feel good about what you’re eating. Great for a side or a healthy main, it’s versatility at its best.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When life gives you lemons, whip up some Best Lemon Pasta for a fuss-free meal with a tangy kick. It’s a real crowd-pleaser at any dinner table, sure to wow your guests without the need for complex cooking. Bright recipes for your kitchen can always use the fresh twist of lemon. Serve it with your favorite greens, and watch it become a staple in your home.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Let’s talk about turning fresh ingredients into a beautiful dish called Caprese Pesto Tarts. Combining the simplicity of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil pesto, they’re a go-to for a quick and impressive appetizer. They might just be the perfect way to kick off any dining experience. And hey, who needs a special occasion to enjoy something this good?
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Unleash your creativity with a dessert that’s also a feast for the eyes – Fruit Pizza. This dish is a splash of color with a sweet crust that’s waiting to be topped with your fruit favorites. It’s part dessert, part art project, and completely fun to make and eat. Expect smiles all around when you serve this uniquely sweet treat.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Cherry Cheesecake

A slice of cherry cheesecake on a plate.
Cherry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Slide into your comfort zone with a slice of creamy Cherry Cheesecake. It’s a classic for a reason, with a rich base and a tangy cherry topping that’s sure to please. There’s no need for fancy decorations when you have a dessert that stands out on its own. A bite into this dessert and it’s clear why it’s a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Picture a plate of Italian Pasta with Salami that’s ready to accompany any dining moment with flair. It’s not just about the pasta; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together beautifully. Fast, easy, and a definite hit for any meal that calls for a touch of Italy. And hey, no one’s judging if you go for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Fruit salad in a blue bowl with a spoon.
Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Amp up the natural sweetness of fruit with a vibrant Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing. Think of it as a combination of flavors where every spoonful is refreshing. It’s the kind of dish that turns any meal into something special without going overboard. And with honey and lime, it’s just the right touch of extra yum.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Get your forks ready for a kick of sweet heat with Hot Honey Chicken Salad. It’s a dish that brings a surprising twist to your typical salad, with a flavor that lingers after every bite. It’s just right for a lighter meal that doesn’t skip on the taste. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping to enjoy throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Lemon Bars

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust.
Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Every bite of Lemon Bars is like a little square of joy with its bright and tangy filling atop a buttery crust. It’s a simple pleasure that’s hard to beat for dessert lovers. They’re the perfect end to any meal, or just a sweet treat to brighten your afternoon. One thing’s for sure, it’s hard to stop at just one.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Fruity Pebbles Donuts

Three donuts with pink frosting and colorful Fruity Pebbles cereal pieces on top, stacked on a white plate.
Fruity Pebbles Donuts. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who says donuts are just a morning treat? With Fruity Pebbles Donuts, you get a whimsical spin on a classic favorite. These donuts are the perfect match for your sweet cravings at any time of day. The colorful cereal topping adds a playful crunch that’s sure to charm kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Fruity Pebbles Donuts

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes you need a side that’s as lively as it is simple to make, and that’s where Cilantro Lime Rice comes in. It’s fresh, light, and with just enough zing to keep things interesting. Perfect alongside your favorite main, it effortlessly adds a special touch to your meal. Plus, it’s a real cinch to whip up any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack.
Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Indulge in the simplicity of homemade Lemon Cookies that offer a subtle twist on a classic treat. Light and crispy, these cookies have an understated elegance that’s just too hard to resist. Whether with a cup of tea or just because, they’re a surefire way to add some joy to your day. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good cookie?
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

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

A bowl of vegetable curry with leafy greens, chunks of squash, diced tomatoes, peanuts, and cilantro, served with a spoon.
Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!). Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who needs take-out when you can create an amazing Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe at home? It’s packed with flavor and has just the right amount of kick. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a breeze to follow. You’ll get all the comfort of your go-to takeout without leaving the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls

Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re in the mood for something bite-sized, but full of flavor, Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls are the answer. They’re cheeky little treats that pack the punch of a cheesecake without the need for a fork. Great for snacking or sharing, their kick is sure to grab attention. Convenient and scrumptious, they’re a must-try snack.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gear up for a protein-packed start to the day with Egg Bites. They’re customizable, easy to make, and ideal for on-the-go mornings. Whether you prep them ahead or whip them up fresh, these little bites pack a flavorful punch. They’re not just for breakfast either; enjoy them anytime you need a quick and tasty snack.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Italian Dressing

A jar with Italian dressing with it and a teaspoon resting in it.
Italian Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Keep things shaking with your own homemade Italian Dressing. It’s remarkable how a simple drizzle can transform the greens into something you can’t wait to dig into. Whip it up in a snap, and use it to dress salads or as a marvellous marinade. The best part is knowing exactly what goes into it, no mysteries here.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Reinvent your sides with a classic Macaroni Salad that goes with just about anything. It’s a versatile dish loved for its simplicity and its ability to be the perfect pair to your mains. Invite it to your next meal prep, and watch how it holds its own. Just remember, a little goes a long way, but a lot goes further!
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Vanilla and lemon cupcakes with swirled pink raspberry buttercream frosting, each topped with a fresh raspberry, arranged closely together.
Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite into the sweet harmony of Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting and let your snack time be an affair to remember. The tang of lemons coupled with the natural sweetness of raspberries creates a cupcake that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Ideal for celebrations or just because, they’re a testament to the magic of baking.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Lemon Pie

A slice of lemon pie sits on a plate next to a pie with a slice removed.
Lemon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something about a well-made Lemon Pie that just feels right. With its smooth lemon filling and flaky crust, it’s a dessert that shouts comfort from the rooftops. Each slice is a promise of a comforting moment to devour. It’s always the right time for pie, especially when lemon’s the star of the show.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

Morel Mushroom Pasta

A bowl of cavatappi pasta with morel mushrooms, garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Morel Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you want something special, Morel Mushroom Pasta is like a hug in the form of food. It’s unassuming but remarkably rich in flavors that’ll make you wonder why you don’t cook with morels more often. It’s that kind of dish that makes an ordinary night feel a bit more gourmet. And honestly, who wouldn’t want that?
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

A bowl of Thai jasmine rice and chili peppers.
Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bring a spoonful of elegance to your plate with deceptively simple Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Its subtle aroma and perfect texture complement any dish, making it more than just a side. It’s the highlight of comfort food, welcoming a variety of pairings from curries to stir-fries. With each fluffy grain, you’ll understand its cherished status in kitchens everywhere.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Pea and Mint Soup

A bowl of creamy green pea soup garnished with mint leaves, black pepper, and pieces of crusty bread.
Pea and Mint Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ease into your meals with Pea and Mint Soup, a blend that’s as refreshing as it sounds. It’s amazing how it manages to be both hearty and light, setting the tone for what’s to come. Ideal for those days when you need a quick, yet comforting meal. It’s a bowl of pure joy, really.
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re craving that sweet and slightly spicy combo, Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe has got you covered. It’s easier than you might think to whip up a batch of this beloved dish at home. With each bite bringing a smile to your face, it’s a surefire way to make any meal special. Plus, it beats taking out every time.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Brighten up your mealtime with a colorful serving of Pasta Primavera, where the veggies are the stars. It’s all about bringing the best of what’s available together in a way that feels new every time. A lovely choice when you’re in the mood for pasta but want to keep things light.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Close-up of Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies filled with white chocolate chips and raspberries, topped with fresh raspberries and white chocolate chunks.
Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Indulge your sweet tooth with Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies that strike the perfect balance between fruity and creamy. They’re the kind of treat that makes any coffee break or dessert time a bit more special. Just the right amount of sweetness to brighten your day. And honestly, who can resist the combination of raspberry and white chocolate?
Get the Recipe: Raspberry and White Chocolate Blondies

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gather around for a slice of Mushroom Pizza that’s sure to hit the spot for both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. With its earthy tones and hearty topping, it’s a real crowd-pleaser at any meal. Just perfect for those evenings when you need a little comfort without the fuss. And, it makes for great leftovers, if there are any!
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

A close-up image of layered lemon raspberry cake slices topped with fresh raspberries and lemon zest.
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a dessert that’s a bit tangy, a bit sweet, and completely irresistible, Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars are your go-to. They’re like a little slice of heaven that you won’t want to share. Perfect for when you want to impress or simply treat yourself. Each bar is a mini escape to a happier, tastier place.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Reinvent your lunchtime with a classic Cobb Salad that packs in flavor without feeling too heavy. With its variety of ingredients, there’s a little bit of everything in every bite. It’s the perfect balance of taste and healthiness, proving salads don’t have to be boring. Plus, it’s customizable to fit whatever you’re craving.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *