March means that spring is here, and with it comes a whole host of colorful fruits – think strawberries, pineapple, citrus, and mango — as well as tender baby vegetables. We’ve put together these nine recipes that celebrate the beauty and seasonal freshness of produce, and feeling of renewal that comes from early spring.
Eggs Benedict with Merlot-laced Artichokes
The earthy, mildly nutty flavor of artichokes adds another level to classic eggs Benedict when you add a spoonful of Harry & David merlot-laced artichoke spread. One bite and you'll think you died and woke up in Malta.
Smashed Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is not just some trend — it's a breakfast mainstay, and this recipe might be the best version of it yet. Grab hold of this buttery fruit — yes, avocadoes are fruits, berries actually — in March, which is its peak season. This toast is layered with bacon, frisée lettuce, hard-boiled eggs, and peppery radishes, making it a splendid meal to begin your day.
Fresh & Green Pineapple Smoothie
The presence of pineapple in this tropical smoothie will make you think of the warmer months ahead. It's a great breakfast alternative, with cashews giving it a boost of protein and the slight hint of peppery ginger saying, "Wake up!" Don't even think of hitting snooze. Plus, it's green. Hello, St. Patrick's Day.
Plant-Based Strawberry Salad with Maple Nut Clusters
Salads, on their own, are plant based. (Where do you think the produce comes from?) And this plant-based salad has a ton of spring character, including peppery arugula, cool mint, sweet strawberries, and your choice of deeply flavored grains, such as farro, quinoa, or wild rice. Bonus: The maple nut clusters make a great snack.
Sweet & Spicy Mango Pasta Salad
You can't get more spring than farfalle, which translates to "butterflies." Toss it with a rainbow of ingredients — mango, red peppers, zucchini, red onion, and arugula — and bring it all together with a cilantro-laced mango and lime dressing.
Bourbon Peppercorn Steak Salad
A play on a traditional niçoise salad, this hearty version swaps out seared tuna for seared bourbon-peppercorn marinated steaks. These are surrounded by a veritable spring baby vegetable garden, including artichokes, pattypan squashes, Brussels sprouts, potatoes, and French-style green beans.
Spring Charcuterie Board
Let spring inspire your charcuterie board's flavors, textures, and colors. Add dried fruits, such as mango and sour cherries, and lighter meats, such as capocollo (gabagool for those Sopranos fans) and bresaola (air-dried beef). A variety of preserved berry and savory spreads, such as caramelized onion, add spring vibes, too.
Sweet Spring Lemon Parfaits
This four-ingredient parfait — a layered dessert with a cookie or cake base — features a silky tart and sweet lemon curd. While lemon flowers bloom in the spring and the fruit ripens over the summer, we can't resist the color of this gorgeous, easy-to-make treat. Bring on the warmer (and sweeter) days ahead!
Sparkling Strawberry Rosé Cocktail
Often heralded as a summer fruit, sweet, juicy strawberries appear in early spring. Conjure up the pink hues of a summer sunset with this delightful strawberry cocktail made with a fruity rosé, a crisp and dry wine with notes of strawberry and melon. If you're looking to pair this drink with a spring dish, go for charcuterie, salads, pasta dishes, and spicy foods. And based on our March recipe recommendations, this libation goes well with each dish. Cheers!
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