I am all about seasonal cooking!
Spring is here, well here in Calgary, AB some days are spring, some winter and I'm still a little bit out from planting my garden. The important thing is that some of the produce will start more flavorful, more local, and cheaper.
Let's get excited about the upcoming vibrant flavors of spring! We al need something to look forward to. In this post, we'll explore some of the season's freshest ingredients, from crisp asparagus to juicy strawberries. Get ready to be inspired by the bounty of spring and discover delicious recipes that celebrate these seasonal treasures.
Asparagus: A Spring Delight
Let's start with one of spring's iconic vegetables: asparagus. Known for its tender stalks and earthy flavor, asparagus is a versatile ingredient that can be roasted, grilled, or sautéed to perfection. Try a simple recipe for roasted asparagus, where the natural flavors of tender asparagus spears give you a little taste of spring.
Head to the bottom of the post for a quick and easy recipe for asparagus.
Strawberries: Nature's Sweet Gem
No spring celebration is complete without juicy strawberries! These ruby-red gems are not only delicious on their own but also shine in desserts . Picture sweet, fluffy biscuits topped with macerated strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream – it's a dessert that embodies the essence of spring in every bite.
There is something about eating fresh local strawberries that can give you the feeling of child-like joy. I love going for a hike a finding wild strawberries to enjoy. They may be the size of my pinky nail but packed with so much flavor!
Peas: Green Goodness
Fresh peas are a quintessential spring ingredient that adds vibrant color and sweetness to dishes. A Pea and Mint Risotto is a comforting yet refreshing meal that highlights the delicate flavor of peas paired with aromatic mint. Creamy Arborio rice, slowly cooked to perfection, makes this dish a comforting indulgence for cool spring evenings.
I always grow sugar snap peas in the garden and the are always a hit. I just love the fact that you can eat the pod as well. Of course they are delicious cooked, but my favorite way to enjoy them is straight from the garden raw.
Radishes: A Crunchy Surprise
Radishes may be small, but they pack a punch of peppery flavor! They grow quickly and are 1 on the first things I can enjoy from my garden. I am excited to enjoy the watermelon radishes this year, if you haven't tried them yet, you really should!
They are a perfect addition to that spring salad!
A Radish and Citrus Salad, featuring crisp radishes, tangy citrus segments, and a zesty vinaigrette. It's a refreshing side dish that adds a burst of color and flavor to any meal.
Some more spring produce that I look forward to before the bounty of summer takes over are Arugula, Spinach, Leafy Greens, Chives, Chive Blossoms and Cilantro! Many of these will bolt by the time summer arrives so be sure to enjoy them while they are at their peak!
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan
What you will need
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Let's cook this!
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the asparagus spears on the grill in a single layer. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Remove the grilled asparagus from the heat and transfer them to a serving platter.
5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot asparagus.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve the grilled asparagus immediately as a nutritious side dish or light main course.
This Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and delicious meal option. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of grilled asparagus enhanced with tangy lemon, savory Parmesan, and aromatic garlic!
As we savor the flavors of spring, I invite you to join us in celebrating these seasonal ingredients and embracing the joys of cooking with nature's bounty. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an enthusiastic home cook, springtime offers endless opportunities to create delicious meals that capture the essence of the season. Stay tuned for more culinary inspiration and happy cooking!
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