Why not embrace spring this year by trying fresh and vibrant new recipes?

I did a little digging and found a few unique spring-inspired recipes that are simple and sure to brighten your table.

Spring Pea and Mint Soup

I'm a big fan of split pea and ham soup.

This recipe twists it a bit by adding mint!

Supposedly, this soup is good either warm or chilled.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot and sauté the onion until translucent.
  2. Add the peas and vegetable broth to a simmer for about 5 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat, add the mint, and blend until smooth.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream (if using), season with salt and pepper, and serve warm or chilled.

Strawberry and Goat Cheese Spring Salad

I'm a huge strawberry fan, but I'm not the biggest goat cheese fan in the world.

On the other hand, my wife loves goat cheese, so I figured I'd share this recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce)
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Combine the mixed greens, strawberries, goat cheese, and nuts in a large bowl.
  2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
  3. Toss gently, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Lemon and Honey Glazed Chicken

Out of the recipes so far, this one sounds the best to me!

The nice thing about this recipe is that it gives you zest with a bit of sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Whisk together the honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush them with the glaze.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally, until the chicken is cooked.
  5. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad.

READ NEXT: Is This Really the Most Favorite Cheese in Montana?

The Best Montana Cookbooks - Food and Cooking From Big Sky Country

Montana chefs and home cooks offer award-winning recipes that are distinctly Montana. Cookbooks can be found on just about every kind of culinary fare, from Bison BBQ to extensive fine dining recipes. Great food and hearty recipes have been a Montana tradition for generations. We were able to find all of these cookbooks locally or online. Enjoy!

Gallery Credit: mwolfe

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