When Winter Meals Bore You, 29 Spring Recipes Excite You

There’s only so much stew a person can eat before they start questioning life choices. Shake things up with 29 spring recipes that actually make dinner exciting again. These dishes bring back some energy without making you work too hard. Your microwave might even start feeling a little threatened.

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.

Leg of Lamb

Two roasted lamb shanks on a plate with rosemary and caramelized onions, with stacked plates in the background.
Leg of Lamb. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nothing shakes up dinner like a big, bold dish. Leg of Lamb brings a nice change without being complicated. It’s a good way to mix up your usual lineup and get everyone talking. You won’t hear anyone complaining when this hits the table.
Get the Recipe: Leg of Lamb

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Close-up of sliced chicken wraps with lettuce, cheese, and a creamy sauce, next to an open jar of mustard on a wooden surface.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A fresh wrap always feels like the right move when you’re bored of the same stuff. Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap is easy to love and even easier to bring along. It’s simple but somehow still feels special. You’ll wonder why you didn’t start making it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish.
Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tired of the same meals? Massaman Curry brings something new to your plate without making a fuss. It’s rich, smooth, and easy to get hooked on fast. Once you taste it, you’ll want to make it part of the weekly lineup.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Ice Cream Cake

Close-up of strawberry shortcake slices topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Layers of cake, cream, and strawberries are visible.
Ice Cream Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You don’t need a reason to have a slice of cake. Ice Cream Cake makes any day feel like a mini party. It’s cold, sweet, and hard to stop at one slice. Save yourself the trouble and just go ahead and grab two pieces.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Keeping meals fresh doesn’t have to be a big production. Chicken Caesar Salad keeps it easy but never boring. It’s a simple plate that hits just right when you’re over heavy dishes. A no-fuss classic that always does the job.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

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.

Sometimes you just want something fun without all the work. Fruit Pizza is colorful, sweet, and feels way fancier than it is. It’s the kind of thing you can’t help but smile about. Great to pull out when regular desserts feel a little too plain.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

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.

Pasta never gets old, but sometimes it needs a little twist. Italian Pasta with Salami changes up the usual without being too crazy. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own and packs a lot into one bowl. You’ll want to make it again before the week’s even over.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

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.

Regular donuts are good, but these are something else. Fruity Pebbles Donuts are fun, colorful, and just a little over-the-top in the best way. They’re perfect when you need a break from the same old snacks. Bet you can’t eat just one.
Get the Recipe: Fruity Pebbles Donuts

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.

Little tarts are always a good idea when you want something easy but different. Caprese Pesto Tarts check all the boxes without being a big production. They’re simple, small, and get snapped up fast. You’ll wish you made extra.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

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.

You can’t stay bored when you’ve got something bright on your plate. Lemon Bars are sweet, sharp, and a straight-up crowd-pleaser. They hit that sweet spot without going overboard. Keep a few hidden if you want any for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Lemon 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.

Big salads don’t have to be boring or feel like a chore. Cobb Salad stacks everything you want into one plate. It’s fresh, filling, and way more exciting than it sounds. You’ll start craving it more than you expect.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls

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

Quick bites that feel a little fancy can change everything. Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls are small, sweet, and way too easy to eat. They’re the kind of snack that disappears faster than you expect. Don’t be surprised if you’re already thinking about the next batch.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls

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.

Some meals just hit the spot without even trying. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe brings a little fast-food vibe right into your kitchen. It’s simple, sweet, and gets big points with everyone at the table. You’ll wonder why you ever ordered out.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Lemon Cookies

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

Some days just need a little extra snap. Lemon Cookies bring the sweet and the tang all in one bite. They’re light, simple, and hard to say no to. Keep a stash ready, because they’ll go fast. Honestly, hiding a few for yourself might not be a bad idea.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

Italian Dressing

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

Good dressing can turn a plain meal into something you actually want to eat. Italian Dressing keeps it easy but never boring. It adds the right punch without trying too hard. You’ll want to drizzle it over everything once you start.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Carrot Cake

Close-up of sliced carrot cake loaf with visible nuts and raisins on a parchment paper, topped with a light icing drizzle.
Carrot Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need a change of pace, Carrot Cake offers a homely twist to your dessert options. It combines the moist texture with a hint of spices that rounds off a meal quite nicely. Perfect as an afternoon snack or the grand finale after dinner. Just enough sweetness ensures it’s not overly indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

Best Lemon Pasta

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

Best Lemon Pasta turns an ordinary meal into something special without much fuss. The refreshing twist of lemon gives it a lift that is hard to resist. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a busy evening. Every bite brings a bit of freshness to your palate.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

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.

Refresh your dessert game with Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting. The tartness of lemon paired with the sweetness of raspberry frosting makes for a perfect match. They are fantastic for small gatherings or just a treat for yourself. Also, they’re great as a snack or wrapped up as a thoughtful gift.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Cilantro Lime Rice

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

Cilantro Lime Rice is a vibrant side dish that brightens any plate. It’s simple yet bursting with fresh flavors, perfect alongside more robust mains. This dish adds a pop of color and taste to your dinner table. It’s light, refreshing, and can be whipped up in no time.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Cherry Cheesecake

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

This recipe is a classic favorite that’s both rich and creamy. Cherry Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for those who enjoy a hint of fruit with their sweets. The texture is smooth, and the cherries add a nice contrast. Great for a personal treat or serving at parties.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

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.

Try Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!) when you crave something exotic yet easy. It is rich in flavors and beats the waiting times of a restaurant. Ideal for an evening meal, it introduces a robust and creamy texture to the menu. Plus, it’s quicker than delivery!
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

Egg Bites

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

Versatile and convenient, Egg Bites are perfect for on-the-go mornings or a quick protein boost. This dish is both nutritious and easy to customize. Pop them in the morning, and you’re good to go. They also make a great light lunch or snack any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice serves as the perfect base for numerous dishes. Its delicate aroma and fluffy texture add an essential layer of simplicity to a vibrant meal. It complements both spicy and mild dishes well. A staple that’s easy to prepare and always welcome.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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.

This dish is always a refreshing choice. The dressing brings out the sweetness of the fruit without overpowering it. Perfect for a light dessert or a refreshing snack. Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing is easy to make and always a hit at any meal.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

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.

Indulge in the earthy, rich tastes of Morel Mushroom Pasta. This dish brings the outdoors right to your dinner table with a rustic touch. It’s great for a cozy dinner and pairs wonderfully with a simple salad. The subtle complexities of the mushrooms are the stars here.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

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.

This soup offers a burst of freshness that’s light and soothing. Pea and Mint Soup is great for a starter or a light meal option. The combination of peas and mint is refreshing. It’s also quick to whip up, making it convenient.
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

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.

Pasta Primavera is packed with freshness. The dish catches your eye with its vibrant colors and keeps you coming back with its fresh taste. It’s perfect for a light yet fulfilling meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

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.

If you’re in the mood for a lighter pizza option, Mushroom Pizza fits the bill perfectly. It combines the earthy tones of mushrooms with great textures. Ideal for a casual meal or a get-together with friends. It’s simple, satisfying, and homey.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

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.

Hot Honey Chicken Salad brings a tangy sweetness to your meal that’s unexpectedly good. It’s a brilliant mix of sweet and spicy notes. The salad is nutritious, filling, and delicious. Great for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken 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.

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