As the weather warms up and flowers start to bloom, it’s the perfect time to shake off those winter blues and get cooking with fresh springtime ingredients. To help you do just that, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious April recipes that showcase the best of what the season has to offer.
From creamy risottos and roasted chicken dishes to sweet treats like strawberry rhubarb pie and lemon lavender shortbread cookies, our selection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and make the most of spring’s bounty.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors and ingredients of April, with recipes that highlight the season’s freshest produce, herbs, and spices. So go ahead, get cooking, and let the taste of springtime delight your senses!
Spring Vegetable Risotto
As the seasons transition from winter to spring, fresh vegetables burst forth with flavor and color. This risotto recipe celebrates the best of spring’s bounty by combining tender vegetables with creamy Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, etc.)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add wine (if using); cook until absorbed, 1 minute.
4. Add 1/2 cup broth; stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, adding vegetables during the last 2 cups of cooking time.
5. Remove from heat; stir in butter and season to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe, perfect for any occasion. With a simple combination of citrusy lemon and fragrant herbs, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon slices, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines sweet strawberries with tangy feta cheese and crunchy spinach, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pint sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. Crumbling feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the salad.
4. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart
This elegant tart combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the creamy richness of goat cheese, perfect for a springtime dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange cooked asparagus on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over asparagus, then drizzle with lemon juice.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape. Seal edges by pressing with a fork.
7. Brush egg wash over pastry and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavor of grilled salmon with a tangy and refreshing dill sauce, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix together mayonnaise, yogurt, dill, and lemon juice in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled salmon with dill sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pea and Mint Soup
This vibrant green soup is a perfect blend of sweet peas and refreshing mint, making it a great choice for a light and revitalizing meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the peas, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped mint leaves and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rhubarb and Ginger Crumble
This classic dessert combines the natural tartness of rhubarb with the warm, spicy flavor of ginger, all wrapped up in a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for springtime gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine rhubarb, granulated sugar, and ginger. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
4. Add chopped almonds (if using) to the oat mixture and stir to combine.
5. Pour the rhubarb mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and top with the oat crumble.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Carrot and Orange Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, featuring the natural sweetness of carrots and oranges. Perfect for a brunch or afternoon treat, this recipe yields a deliciously dense and buttery cake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, grated carrots, orange juice, and chopped walnuts (if using). Mix until well combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Radish and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the crunch of radishes, creaminess of avocado, and nuttiness of whole grain toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4-6 radishes (any variety)
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the radishes into thin rounds.
3. Toast the baguette slices until lightly browned.
4. Mash the avocado in a bowl with a fork until mostly smooth.
5. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each toasted baguette slice.
6. Top each slice with 1-2 radish rounds, depending on their size.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add optional flavorings if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble the toast and serve.
Artichoke and Spinach Dip
This creamy dip combines the sweetness of artichokes with the earthiness of spinach, perfect for a gathering or party. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned and warm.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spring Pea Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that celebrates the arrival of spring, featuring fresh peas, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup fresh spring peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add fresh peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pea mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
A sweet and savory salad that combines the earthy flavors of roasted beets with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and roasted beet wedges.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies: A Sweet and Tangy Treat
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the subtle sweetness of lavender are perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in lemon zest and lavender buds.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chive and Cheddar Scones
These buttery scones infused with chives and cheddar cheese are perfect for a quick breakfast or as a snack to accompany your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Stir in cheddar cheese and chopped chives.
4. Pour in heavy cream and mix until dough forms.
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat dough into an 8-inch circle, about 1 inch thick.
7. Cut into wedges and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each scone.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Wild Mushroom and Leek Quiche
A rich and savory quiche filled with the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and sweet leeks, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and oyster), sliced
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté the mushrooms, leeks, and garlic until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked mushroom mixture to the cream mixture and stir well.
6. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
This classic pie combines sweet strawberries with tart rhubarb, creating a delightful flavor combination that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings and special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup sliced rhubarb
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries and rhubarb.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt. Add mixture to strawberry-rhubarb mixture and toss until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Fill pie crust with filling, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold edges of crust up over filling, creating a decorative border.
7. Brush egg wash over crust to give it a golden brown color.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops
Elevate your lamb chops with a flavorful herb crust that combines the freshness of rosemary and thyme with the richness of garlic. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spring Onion and Potato Soup
As the seasons transition from winter to spring, a warm and comforting soup is just what you need to brighten up your day. This Spring Onion and Potato Soup recipe combines the sweetness of fresh potatoes with the pungency of spring onions, resulting in a deliciously savory and creamy brew.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of spring onions (white and green parts), chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, spring onions, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of fresh blueberries with the brightness of lemon zest, making them a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and lemon juice. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Gently fold in blueberries and lemon zest.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your springtime meals with this simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of asparagus. This Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus recipe is a classic combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the asparagus.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
8. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 2 minutes of roasting.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Spring is here, and with it comes a fresh new set of recipes to try. From hearty spring vegetable risotto to light and refreshing strawberry spinach salad, there’s something for everyone. Savor the flavors of asparagus and goat cheese tart, or indulge in a sweet treat like carrot and orange cake. For a taste of springtime delight, try grilled salmon with dill sauce or roasted beet and goat cheese salad. These 20 fresh April recipes showcase the best of the season’s ingredients, from rhubarb and ginger crumble to blueberry lemon muffins.
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