The snow is slowly melting, the sun sometimes emerges from behind the clouds, and the occasional bird can be heard chirping. Spring seems to be rolling around (hopefully; it is South Dakota, one never really knows), and losing the hearty soups and fresh-baked breads from winter makes way for a different season of dinner, lunches, and everything in between! With these select delicious recipes, you’ll find it easy to feel the spring spirit all around.
Lemon Pasta
Lemon pasta, or Pasta Al Limone, originated from the coasts of Southern Italy, specifically the Sorrento peninsula and the Amalfi Coast. A fairly simple recipe, this dish typically includes grated parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, basil, and garlic. Pasta Al Limone is set apart from most pastas by its bright and tangy flavor, perfect for springtime dinners. Try this suggested recipe!
Tortellini Primavera
Tortellini Primavera is another pasta dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of springtime. It includes cheese-filled tortellini tossed with fresh vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, asparagus, and baby spinach. Primavera, literally translated from Italian to “spring,” is a style of cooking that emerged as a culinary movement in the 20th century, emphasizing seasonal vegetables in Italian cuisine. One great recipe can be found here.
Chicken and Asparagus Salad with Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette
Chicken and asparagus salad is a perfect springtime meal. Grilled chicken breast, as well as asparagus spears, lemon, and olive oil, make this dish a fresh favorite. The many aspects of this dish come from wildly different histories. Asparagus is thought to have originated in the Mediterranean region. Meyer lemons, a cross between lemons and mandarin oranges, were introduced to the US from China in the early twentieth century. Try a great recipe here!
Fry Bread tacos
Fry bread tacos are a fusion of native American tradition and Southwestern flavors, making them a perfect addition to any spring recipe collection. Fry bread is topped with taco fillings, such as ground beef, refried beans, or shredded chicken, and then other toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, salsa, and cheese blends. Fry bread tacos likely originated during the forced relocation of Native American tribes during the nineteenth century, when they were provided with government rations including flour, sugar, and lard, which led to the creation of fry bread tacos. For a tasty recipe, try this one.
Chile-Lime Steak Salad
This dish is a refreshing and flavorful meal that perfectly captures springtime dining. This vibrant salad features steak, sometimes marinated in ingredients such as lime and chili powder or soy sauce. Tossed with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices, the salad offers a medley of textures and flavors. Chile-lime steak salad is a modern dish that draws inspiration from traditional Mexican cuisine and contemporary salad trends. One amazing recipe is found here.
Image Source: https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a43963571/lemon-pasta-recipe/