One of the first signs of spring in the vegetable world is asparagus. These tender green spears are packed with vitamins and incredibly versatile. Try roasting them with olive oil and lemon or making a creamy asparagus soup using coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Peas, including sugar snap and snow peas, also make their appearance in spring. Their natural sweetness is perfect for a light gluten-free quinoa and pea salad—just mix cooked quinoa with peas, mint, lemon juice, and olive oil for a refreshing dish.
Leafy greens thrive in spring, offering a variety of textures and flavors. Spinach, arugula, and Swiss chard are at their peak, perfect for tossing into salads or blending into smoothies. For a hearty meal, try making a Swiss chard and chickpea stir-fry, sautéing the greens with garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of cumin. Radishes add a peppery crunch to meals, and their greens can even be blended into a vibrant pesto to serve over gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking for something unique, sautéed fiddlehead ferns with garlic and butter make a fantastic side dish.
I love going to ethnic markets and buying seasonal vegetables and fruits that I have never tried before. Then I use Google and search up the produce to find out more about the item, the culture and the flavor profiles, as well as seasoning and dishes to accompany my new "friends."
Spring is the perfect time to experiment with fresh, local produce and add more color to your plate. Whether you’re picking up vegetables from a farmers' market or growing your own, embracing seasonal eating connects you to nature’s cycles and supports sustainable food choices. Looking for more gluten-free recipes? Check out Minimalist Baker and Gluten-Free Living for delicious, easy-to-make ideas featuring spring’s freshest ingredients! Check out Seasonal Food Guide for more inspiration on how to cook with spring’s freshest ingredients!
Let me know what new vegetables you have tried this spring that you haven't eaten before. I want to hear from you!
In Gratitude,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
SuperiorSelf channel on Youtube
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