Eating produce within its peak harvest season has many benefits that range from sustainability and cost-efficiency to a higher and more diverse nutrient intake.
An easy way to find out what produce is in season is by checking the SNAP-Ed Connection resources page. There, you’ll find a seasonal produce guide that lists several different types of fruits and vegetables under the season they belong to.
Although using seasonal produce may seem intimidating, there is no need to search for hours for the perfect meal. With these six seasonal recipes, making breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert can be delicious and make you feel great.
Carrot Cake Baked Oats
By setting aside 45 minutes, you can make six servings of the perfect carrot cake baked oats to either share with friends and family once they cool or save in the freezer for up to three months.
Though the grated carrots may seem like a strange addition, their natural sweetness blends perfectly with the baked oats, providing key nutrients to the otherwise sweet breakfast treat.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
For those of you who like the popular Panera broccoli cheddar soup, you’ll love this homemade alternative. This classic warm recipe calls for several spring vegetables, including broccoli, carrots, garlic and onions.
With a side of artisan bread, this soup makes for a great lunch or dinner option.
Chicken Panzanella Salad
This twist on the classic panzanella salad brings in asparagus and snap peas alongside mixed greens and chicken.
Though working with raw chicken may seem daunting, it is even more rewarding once you finally take a seat to eat. However, if you’re still feeling uneasy about working with raw meat, feel free to swap out cooking your own chicken with a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
Mushroom Soup
If you happen to have a little extra time on your hands, try your hand at making this creamy mushroom soup recipe.
Feel free to eat this savory soup alone or as a side dish, and don’t worry about making too much; the leftovers of this recipe can be stored in your freezer for up to two months.
Lemon Blueberry Snack Cake
This lemon blueberry snack cake is the perfect sweet treat to bring to your next spring event. The citrus of the lemon and the sweetness of the blueberries create the ultimate pair in this irresistible dessert.
And for those of you who aren’t fans of whole pieces of fruit in your dessert, try blending the blueberries before mixing them into your batter. Though this might impact the bake time, it’s still a great option.
Strawberry Cheesecake Cookie
Last but not least, if you are up for a little bit of a challenge, these strawberry cheesecake cookies are for you.
While the exterior of this dessert is a simple sugar cookie with a homemade strawberry jam infusion, the inside is a soft cheesecake filling that’s enough to make anyone who tries it want to know the recipe.
And if strawberries aren’t your thing, there is also a lemon blueberry alternative to this recipe.
