Spring Brings a Fresh Harvest

Spring makes everything feel fresh and full of possibility. After months of cold weather and heavy comfort foods, warmer days bring a bounty of fresh produce ready to brighten your meals. Eating seasonally is an easy way to nourish your body, and spring’s harvest offers some of the most vibrant, nutrient-packed ingredients of the year.

Fruits and vegetables picked at their peak have more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than those stored or shipped from far away. Spring favorites like asparagus, peas, strawberries, spinach, artichokes, and radishes are not only tasty but also full of the nutrients your body needs after winter. Adding these to your meals is a delicious way to boost your health.

Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas

This bright and satisfying pasta comes together in under 30 minutes and highlights two classic spring vegetables.

  • 12 oz pasta of your choice (linguine or spaghetti works well)

  • 1 bunch of asparagus

  • 1 cup of fresh peas

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon

  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil

  • Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste

  • Fresh parmesan and basil for serving

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic for one minute. Add the asparagus and cook for three to four minutes until tender but still crisp. Stir in the peas, then cook for 2 more minutes. Toss everything with the drained pasta, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season to taste, then top with parmesan and fresh basil.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Spring strawberries are at their sweetest, making them a perfect addition to a fresh, colorful salad.

  • 4 cups of fresh baby spinach

  • 1 cup of fresh strawberries, sliced

  • ½ cup of thinly sliced red onion

  • ¼ cup of candied pecans or walnuts

  • 2 oz of crumbled goat cheese

For the dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon of honey

  • 1 teaspoon of poppy seeds

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk all the dressing ingredients together. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, red onion, and nuts. Drizzle with the dressing and top with goat cheese. Serve right away.

Spring Vegetable Frittata

A frittata is one of the most flexible spring dishes you can make, easily adjusted to whatever fresh produce you find at the market.

  • 8 large eggs

  • ¼ cup of milk

  • 1 cup of baby spinach

  • ½ cup of sliced mushrooms

  • ½ cup of cherry tomatoes

  • ¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese

  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

  • Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Whisk the eggs and milk with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, then sauté the mushrooms for 3 minutes. Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes and cook until wilted. Pour the egg mixture over the veggies, top with feta and fresh herbs, then transfer to the oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the center is set. Slice and serve warm.

Spring invites us to slow down and enjoy fresh, local foods. Small changes, like using seasonal produce or trying a new recipe each week, can really improve how you feel. If you have questions about nutrition or how your diet affects your health, the team at New York Health is here to help. 

 

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