Summer is just around the corner, but before we fully embrace those long, lazy days, let's savor the last taste of spring! This collection of 17 light and refreshing recipes is the perfect way to send off the season. We've got fluffy strawberry muffins for those lingering mornings on the patio, vibrant salads bursting with fresh flavors, and a savory pea quiche ideal for a light lunch. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and fuss-free preparation, these dishes are a celebration of everything we love about spring.
Vegan Strawberry Muffins
![Muffins with strawberries in them behind a halved muffin.](https://www.pipercooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/vegan-strawberry-muffins.jpg)
Calling all strawberry lovers! Indulge in these delightful Vegan Strawberry Streusel Muffins. Made entirely with plant-based ingredients, these muffins are fluffy, flavorful, and bursting with fresh strawberries. The sweet vanilla batter is packed with juicy berries, and a crumbly streusel topping adds the perfect textural contrast. Serve them warm with a pat of vegan butter for an irresistible breakfast or afternoon treat!
Get the recipe: Vegan Strawberry Streusel Muffins
One-Pot Shrimp Pasta
Ditch the dishes and indulge in a delicious one-pot shrimp pasta! This recipe brings together perfectly cooked pasta with succulent, sautéed shrimp. Fresh lemon juice and fragrant thyme add a touch of brightness, while grated Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, decadent finish. It's a flavor-packed meal that requires minimal cleanup – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch.
Get the recipe: One-Pot Shrimp Pasta
Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad
This Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad is a textural and flavor explosion! Fluffy quinoa meets its perfectly toasted counterpart, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Packed with protein and bursting with the goodness of roasted broccoli, this salad is both wholesome and satisfying. It's a simple dish that's perfect for a light lunch, a healthy side, or a satisfying meal prep option.
Get the recipe: Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad
Lemon Pepper Pasta
Craving a quick and flavorful pasta dish? Look no further than this Lemon Pepper Pasta! It's a budget-friendly meal that's bursting with bright, zesty flavors. Tangy lemon zest and juice, spicy cracked black pepper, and zippy garlic come together to create a delicious sauce that coats comforting pasta.
Get the recipe: Lemon Pepper Pasta
Creamy Zucchini Mushroom Pasta
Embrace zucchini season with this incredibly easy One-Pot Zucchini and Mushroom Pasta! This creamy and satisfying dish comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. Toss your favorite pasta shape with fresh zucchini, earthy mushrooms, and a touch of heavy cream for a luscious sauce. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it's a quick and rewarding weeknight dinner that's bursting with flavor.
Get the recipe: Creamy Zucchini Mushroom Pasta
Carrot Fries
Snacking doesn't have to be boring! These Air Fryer Carrot Fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional fries. Made with just a few simple ingredients like carrots, oil, cornstarch, and spices, they're crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, they come together in just 20 minutes, making them the perfect easy side dish or anytime snack.
Get the recipe: Carrot Fries
Sheet Pan Chicken And Asparagus
Streamline your weeknight dinners with this fuss-free One-Pan Chicken with Asparagus! Tender chicken and fresh asparagus bake together on a single sheet pan, coated in a delicious honey Dijon sauce that's both tangy and sweet. The result? A flavorful, complete meal with minimal cleanup – perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner.
Get the recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken And Asparagus
Kale Chicken Salad
Craving a flavorful and healthy salad with a protein punch? Look no further than this Chicken and Kale Salad with Creamy Avocado Cilantro Dressing! Featuring savory, air-fried cumin chicken, crisp cucumbers, and a vibrant mix of kale and romaine lettuce, this salad is a delicious and satisfying option for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Topped with a creamy avocado cilantro dressing, it's a flavor explosion in every bite!
Get the recipe: Kale Chicken Salad
Greek Cucumber Salad
Beat the summer heat with this refreshing Greek-inspired Cucumber Salad! Cool, crisp cucumbers are bathed in a creamy Tzatziki dressing, bursting with fresh flavors like dill and garlic. This light and flavorful salad is the perfect accompaniment to any summer meal. Enjoy it alongside pasta, sandwiches, grain bowls, or as a delightful side to grilled meats or fish.
Get the recipe: Greek Cucumber Salad
Strawberry Lemon Cake
This Lemon Strawberry Cake is bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for a delightful summer dessert. The cake itself is wonderfully moist thanks to the addition of lemon zest, and it's studded with sweet, juicy strawberries throughout. Plus, the easy one-bowl recipe means minimal cleanup – perfect for enjoying those long summer days.
Get the recipe: Strawberry Lemon Cake
Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Craving crispy, fluffy potatoes without the hassle? These Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Dijon Mustard and Thyme are the answer! Made with just 5 ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to whip up. Infused with the savory flavors of Dijon mustard and thyme, these smashed potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish for any meal.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Vegan Lemon Aioli
Ditch the mayo and embrace the creamy goodness of cashews! This vibrant Lemon Cashew Aioli is bursting with flavor, thanks to a touch of fresh lemon juice and zest. It's the perfect healthy and delicious dip or spread for all your favorite snacks. Whether you're enjoying crudités, chips, or grilled vegetables, this bright aioli is sure to elevate your next appetizer spread.
Get the recipe: Vegan Lemon Aioli
Cabbage Crunch Salad
Craving a light, refreshing salad with a satisfying crunch? This Cabbage Crunch Salad is ready in just 20 minutes and packed with flavor. Crispy cabbage gets tossed with a creamy peanut butter dressing, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Topped with fresh green onions, fragrant cilantro, and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, it's a vibrant and delicious dish that's perfect for a quick lunch, a light side dish, or a satisfying anytime snack.
Get the recipe: Cabbage Crunch Salad
Spinach And Arugula Salad
Beat the heat with this vibrant Summer Salad! Arugula and spinach form a refreshingly peppery base for sweet apple slices, tangy feta cheese, and a delightful crunch from pecans, sunflower seeds, and pepitas. A drizzle of honey balsamic vinaigrette brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony. This easy-to-make salad is the perfect light lunch or delightful side dish for any warm summer day.
Get the recipe: Spinach And Arugula Salad
Broccoli Crunch Salad
Get ready for a flavor fiesta! This Summer Broccoli Crunch Salad is a vibrant explosion of textures and tastes. Crispy broccoli florets meet crunchy pepitas for a delightful contrast, while a creamy chipotle mayo dressing adds a touch of smoky heat. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's both delicious and satisfying, perfect for a light lunch, refreshing side dish, or a potluck contribution.
Get the recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad
Vegan Cucumber Sandwich
Sometimes, simple is simply satisfying. This classic cucumber sandwich delivers on all the essential elements: freshness, satisfying crunch, and effortless ease. Layered with crisp cucumber slices seasoned to perfection, fluffy buttered bread, and a touch of peppery arugula, it's a timeless recipe that's perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing afternoon snack, or a delightful finger food for any occasion.
Get the recipe: Vegan Cucumber Sandwich
Green Pea Quiche
Spring has sprung, and this Feta and Green Pea Quiche is the perfect way to celebrate! This vibrant dish boasts a stunning green pea filling nestled in a unique avocado pastry crust. Topped with delicate pea shoots, it's a feast for the eyes and a delight for the taste buds. Made with just six simple ingredients, this quiche is surprisingly easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress at your next brunch party.
Get the recipe: Green Pea Quiche
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