50 Healthy Spring Dinner Ideas To Brighten Your Plate (2024)

Who can say no to a warming bowl of soup made with savory vegetable broth, fresh peas, and tons of fresh herbs?

This hearty soup is naturally dairy-free. Plus, it’s loaded with plant protein and plenty of filling carbs from the soft potato base!

Serve it with a hunk of fresh bread or a sandwich, and you’ll have a vibrant vegetarian dinner that’ll keep you satisfied until breakfast!

If you’re looking to make use of spring veggies, then you’ll adore this creamy and zesty pesto pasta.

You get a pleasant crunch from the pistachio nuts and tender asparagus. But it’s the lemony asparagus pesto that really lifts the dish!

And the best part?

This easy pesto comes together in just a few minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy your evening!

I can’t get enough of this cheesy potato chive galette as it’s brimming with fresh herbs and springtime flavors.

I adore the buttery puff pastry base, which tastes super indulgent.

But it’s the baby potatoes, cheeses, and drizzle of honey that pull the whole thing together.

This delicious and protein-rich dish is ridiculously easy to make. You just need to throw the ingredients onto a baking sheet!

It combines tender and lemony chicken breasts with marinated asparagus spears for a light (but tangy!) weeknight meal.

The herb mix and garlic are crucial for a savory bite. But you should also look out for the burst of sweetness from the honey!

There’s truly nothing better than a creamy bowl of risotto loaded with fresh vegetables.

This vegan asparagus risotto is a mouthwatering delight that contains absolutely no butter!

This makes it naturally dairy-free and lightens things up considerably.

I love topping this dish with pine nuts for texture, but it’s equally delicious with a simple sprinkle of thyme and spring onions!

When I’m craving a hearty meal packed with nourishing ingredients, I’ll go for this bowl of spring chicken and dumplings.

The asparagus, leeks, and peas dial up the vitamin factor. But it's the chives, dill, and parsley that take it to the next level.

The fluffy dumplings are undeniably the stars of the show here.

But that broth? It’s everything you need to chase away those early springtime colds!

This vegetarian quiche is a mealtime marvel that’s full of healthy fats, protein, and iron!

It combines fresh eggs with whole milk, creamy Gruyère cheese, fresh asparagus, and a bunch of spinach for a vitamin kick.

If you don’t want to follow the base recipe, switch the veggies out for virtually anything you love!

Are you looking for an easy dinner that contains simple ingredients and is on the table in just 15 minutes?

Well, I’ve got you covered with this pea and asparagus pasta!

The al-dente pasta works perfectly with the crunchy spring veggies, and I adore the brightness you get from the lemon zest and parsley.

Top it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and you’ll have a gorgeous dish that the whole family will love.

I’ll often pull out this salmon poke bowl on those warmer days when I need something fresh.

It features sushi-grade fish (always delicious!), a vibrant assortment of crunchy veggies, and tasty pickled cucumber for tanginess.

And don’t forget the sprinkle of fresh chili and drizzle of soy sauce that gives the dish a fiery kick!

It’s the perfect spring recipe for when the sun comes out to play!

A zesty and creamy pasta dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes and has a no-cook sauce?

Yes PLEASE!

The parmesan cheese and ricotta make the creamy sauce taste incredibly indulgent, while the garlic and olive oil create a rich and aromatic base.

Keep a slice of lemon on your plate for extra zest and you’ll have a glorious weeknight treat on your hands!

Forget takeout. This dish will turn your next Mexican night into a complete fiesta.

I love the fact that this dish is just slightly hot, making it suitable for any palate.

But the mix of green onions, tender shrimp, and creamy sour cream is a total texture sensation.

Oh, and don’t even get me started on the lime and cilantro slaw that rivals anything you’ll find in Cancun or Tijuana!

I’ll whip up this baked cod almost every week during the springtime.

It’s fresh, colorful, and ideal for nights when you just want a light dinner!

And did I mention that the entire recipe is made on a single sheet pan for hassle-free cooking and easy clean-up?

Serve it with zoodles or just let the base recipe fly solo for a refreshing and protein-packed meal!

On nights when I can’t face the kitchen, a colorful portion of stir-fried noodles can be just what the doctor ordered.

I can’t get enough of the crunch you get from the vibrant veggies like carrots, mushrooms, and peppers.

But it’s honestly the umami (and slightly sweet!) sauce that adds glorious acidity and depth to this otherwise simple dish.

I’m always on the lookout for bright and nutrient-rich salads that instantly brighten up those dull days.

So, this spring farro salad is a total winner.

It combines seasonal greens with farro cooked in vegetable stock. Each bite has a surprisingly hearty and textured mouthfeel.

And I promise – the simple dressing made from lemon, olive oil, and stone-ground mustard makes all the difference!

I’ll never turn down a comforting soup during the winter months.

But this cream of asparagus soup is perfect for those transitional days!

I love that it replaces heavy cream with Greek yogurt to lighten things up. Plus, the Yukon gold potatoes keep everything buttery and rich.

If I want an extra hit of protein and a bit of crunch, I’ll top it with roasted chickpeas or a few pumpkin seeds!

If thinking about creamy salmon, fresh vegetables, and a lemony garlic cream sauce have you salivating, then buckle up for a delicious ride!

The lemon and asparagus keep this dish bright and light, while the flaky salmon makes it hearty enough for dinnertime.

Cycle it with hummus pasta, and you’ll never struggle on Italian night again!

This refreshing spring salad recipe is super vibrant and couldn’t be easier to make.

It’s made with asparagus, lamb’s lettuce, crunchy radish, and fresh spring onions that keep things fresh and flavorful.

I usually have it as a side dish with grilled sardines or chicken. But you can also throw on some feta cheese for those low-appetite nights!

As soon as I tried this tasty tofu stir fry, I knew it would end up in my staple recipe binder.

It’s so flavorful as it’s loaded with minced garlic and fresh veggies. Oh, and the vermicelli noodles just soak up all that saucy deliciousness!

And did I mention that this dish is made with simple ingredients? Use any seasonal veggies you can find at the grocery store to turn it into a spring delight!

I didn’t think it was possible to create a super-rich and creamy vegan pasta until I tried this tomato-based gem.

It’s ridiculously silky and swaps out double cream for an amazing cashew cream that keeps this recipe 100% plant-based.

And the herby kick you get from the fresh rosemary and basil? It’s just the cherry on top!

This beet risotto is colorful, creamy, and seasoned beautifully.

The beets take center stage as they turn the risotto bright ruby red! But don’t worry – it’s not all about aesthetics with this recipe.

You'll also get a smooth texture from the Arborio rice, natural sweetness from the beets, and a solid base from the stock.

When the warmer weather starts to appear, I’ll always put out this creamy lemon ravioli.

It seems fancy on the surface. But it’s just a simple combination of fresh peas, basil, spinach, and a light lemon cream sauce!

The fact that it’s ready in 20 minutes is just a bonus!

This warming carrot and ginger soup is a reliable and healthy recipe that never disappoints.

It’s filled with simple ingredients, gets a heavy dose of protein from the lentils, and has a wonderful creamy texture.

And did I mention the antioxidant hit you get from the ginger and turmeric?

Talk about a great all-rounder recipe that’s perfect for beginners!

You heard it here first - I cannot stop eating these stunning seasoned salmon bowls.

They combine glazed salmon (which is so moist) with vibrant spring veggies like asparagus, radish, and peas.

It’s simple, but never fails to get nods of approval around the dining table!

It’s no secret that I love zoodle recipes as they’re fresh, low-calorie, and always uber-refreshing.

This lean and green recipe is the perfect base for virtually any grilled meat or fish.

But you can also eat it as a satisfying side salad that'll help you hit your 5-a-day in no time!

And trust me when I say that the herby basil vinaigrette will have you loading up with a second helping!

Orzo is one of those carbs that’s often overlooked.

But this grilled chicken dish puts it front and center!

It pairs chewy orzo with tender grilled chicken, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and juicy tomatoes for the ultimate carnivorous feast.

It’s always a hit at late springtime BBQs as people just can’t get over the sweet honey mustard dressing

Who said that delicious soups need a boatload of ingredients and time to simmer for hours on the stove?

This leek soup uses just 6 key ingredients and is light, low-carb, and ridiculously creamy.

Oh, and the crunch and heartiness you get from the roasted mix of seeds and brown rice are just delightful!

Wave goodbye to boring salads with this lentil-filled wonder!

This simple recipe is made with asparagus, artichokes, fresh herbs, crumbly feta cheese, and a zingy lemon dressing.

Serve it with a few nori chips for crunch, or put it on a BBQ table with some Mediterranean quinoa and hummus for a weekend feast.

Anything goes!

You might not believe it, but this roasted cauliflower salad is bursting with complex flavors, fiber, and protein.

It's a wonderful sheet pan supper that combines chickpeas and cauliflower with herbs, avocado, and tangy feta cheese.

And when you pour over the creamy and sweet honey mustard vinaigrette?

You’ll seriously be in flavor town!

If you’re looking for quick and easy dinners that are gluten-free and perfect for meal prep, check out this chicken dish!

It’s made from just a few ingredients and gets depth and flavor from fresh lemons, pepper, and a small amount of butter.

Pack them up as part of a bento box for lunch and you’ll be reducing your weekday stress levels big time!

I’m always on the lookout for new pasta salad recipes, and this one is just the epitome of spring!

The peas, spring onions, radishes, and asparagus offer tons of crunch, while the al-dente pasta is a gorgeous carb-filled base.

The stunning lemon dressing (which is made with maple syrup and Dijon mustard!) finishes things off beautifully!

I love a rich risotto made with lashings of butter and stock.

But this authentic Italian stew filled with peas and leeks is a glorious alternative that’s way lighter on the waistline.

The garlic, bay leaves, and parsley give the rice amazing depth, while the fresh peas and leeks add a bunch of sweetness.

Finish off with a generous sprinkle of spicy black pepper and you’ll be in heaven!

Why not spice up burger night with these crisp and nutritious split pea patties?

These plant-powered patties contain split peas, carrots, and new potatoes to give them texture.

But it’s the onion, garlic, and light spice from the cumin that rivals any restaurant-quality burger you’ll find!

Pop them in a bun or serve them in lettuce wraps with polenta fries for a lighter dinner.

If you’ve never heard of Gözleme, you’re seriously missing out.

It’s a glorious Turkish staple that combines doughy wraps with beetroot, spring greens, and nuts to create tasty little turnovers.

Making the dough by hand can take time, but all the kneading and proving is worth it!

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bumper bowl of farro, asparagus, and goat cheese.

I love how hearty the grains and mushrooms are.

Plus, the goat’s cheese gives just the right amount of sharpness that balances the bright herbs perfectly.

The best make-ahead meal for those evenings when you're feeling pooped!

I don’t recommend pulling this flavorful dish out at the office as it’s on the fragrant side.

But the pecorino cheese, aromatic garlic, spicy capers, and protein-rich sardines are gorgeous if you’re at home.

Pan-frying the sardines with olive oil crisps them up beautifully.

And hey, you can’t beat that crunchy crumb mixture!

There’s no need to settle for lettuce-based salads this year.

Yep - this incredible potato salad has all the creaminess of traditional recipes without being a calorie bomb!

The lemon juice, capers, Dijon mustard, and oil help to form a smooth dressing. And don’t worry, the garlic and herbs brighten things up perfectly!

Trust me, it’s a wonderful side dish for this time of year!

If you’re sick of stir-fries, these tasty and balanced chicken rice bowls are just the ticket!

This delicious recipe is packed with gut-loving ingredients like apple cider vinegar, kimchi, and garlic.

Oh, and I love that you can customize the recipe with virtually any vegetables from the farmer’s market!

Not only does it store well, but it’s one of my favorite quick dinner recipes that’s ready in 30 minutes flat.

This is one of my go-to spring dinner ideas when I’m short on time but craving crunch.

It combines chopped radishes, pine nuts, and capers with soft white beans for amazing contrast.

Feel free to top your salad with shaved pecorino or parmesan for a salty and nutty garnish.

If you’re not in the mood for Mexican quinoa, this is one of the spring salads that has got your back.

It packs the same protein punch as most quinoa salads.

But including salty pistachios and super-sweet Medjool dates gives this dish exciting contrast and great texture.

And oh BOY. The tahini and lemon-based sunshine dressing is a joyful mix of sweet and spicy flavors that dials things way up.

This vegetarian paella strikes the perfect balance between savory and spicy.

It's packed with vibrant veggies like peas, artichoke hearts, and spring greens (which soak up the savory goodness from the broth!).

But honestly?

It’s steeping the saffron and giving everything time to simmer that makes this one of my favorite meatless meals!

There are so many amazing ways to use chickpea flour, but making savory pancakes is probably my favorite.

These herby pancakes are topped with asparagus, radishes, and a generous sprinkle of a za'atar spice blend.

And if you’re wondering what pulls everything together, it’s a zesty and slightly sweet tahini sauce.

It’s sensational.

This orecchiette with creamy carrot sauce is what at-home Italian cuisine is all about.

The pasta pillows catch the creamy sauce perfectly, and you can even use the carrot tops to create an amazing gremolata!

Throw in the umami flavors from the miso and the crunch from those toasted breadcrumbs, and it’s a surefire winner.

Tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a creamy parmesan sauce? Get me a piece of that action!

This lemon chicken gnocchi is next-level comfort food that’s loaded with protein, easy to cook, and ready in minutes.

And as everything is made in a skillet, you’ll have minimal clean-up to deal with after you’re done chowing down!

As a born and bred Italian, I have such a soft spot for pasta. And this pappardelle with nutty parmesan is no exception!

I adore how much creamy sauce gets left on each of the wide pasta ribbons.

Plus, the sweet peas and parsley give the dish so much freshness that pairs wonderfully with the aromatic garlic base.

Sometimes, you just want a simple and crunchy salad with healthy greens and a hint of spice.

All you need to pull this dish together is lettuce, finely grated parmesan, and a few red pepper flakes for heat.

And don’t forget the lemon and honey dressing that gives everything a glorious tang!

This tasty salad is an ideal pick for those nights when you want something fresh and flavorful on the table.

I can’t get over the tang and crunch you get from apples and shallots.

But the chunks of smooth avocado paired with the seasoned roasted chickpeas are the real tour de force here!

Just throw everything in a bowl and you’ll be ready to roll in under 45 minutes.

I couldn’t get over how quick and easy this citrus avocado salad was to make.

Just pan-sear the shrimp, prep your greens, and assemble your bowl for a dish packed with healthy fats and protein!

Everyone loves the classic springtime flavors in this dish, but don’t be afraid to throw in cherry tomatoes for extra juiciness!

I’ve always believed that some of the best spring dinner ideas are served cold and crammed with tasty veggies!

This green goddess pasta salad is made with fresh herbs, spinach, peas, crunchy cucumbers, and mild olives.

And it’s sublime when you’re craving a light dinner that still feels satisfying.

Who doesn’t love a bowl of ramen after a tough day?

This plant-based delight is bulked out with meaty mushrooms, a selection of crunchy veggies, and tofu for extra protein.

The miso paste gives it an unbeatable umami base.

Oh, and you can get creative by topping it with anything from sriracha to cilantro!

If you’re looking for spring dinner ideas that will complement virtually any main course, these roasted radishes are IT.

They’re basted with olive oil and covered with parsley for flavor – and that's it!

The easiest side dish that you can toss into salads or serve with a protein of your choice.