Spring has always been a time to celebrate all things new! The natural world around us is blooming and producing the first produce of the growing season. This is the perfect time to change up your family meals by taking advantage of this fresh start! You may have your own crop to harvest or you can take advantage of the early Farmers Markets or farm stands in your area. Try planting and harvesting spring greens from your own garden or a large pot on your deck or balcony. There is lots of family fun to be had as you change up your tired old menu by adding some fresh, spring produce.
Try this spring produce:
- Asparagus
- Herbs (dill,chives & parsley)
- Baby Greens (spinach, kale, lettuces, Swiss chard)
- Young carrots
- Radishes
- Peas
- Strawberries
- Artichokes
- Leeks
- Rhubarb
- Spring garlic/onions
Take a trip to the farmers' market!
Plan a trip to the local Farmers Market with your kiddos in early spring. Let them see first-hand what is available in April and May. They can help to plan the menu around what you find! Look up recipes together using your market purchases as your guide. Many sites, including this Eat Smart website, allow you to type in the name of an ingredient to search for recipes! Check out our Recipe Link for some great ideas.
Spring into fun in the kitchen!
Salads using spinach, arugula, and tender spring greens can be a treat after the long winter. Toss in baby carrots, snap peas, radishes, or other favorite spring veggies! Involve the kiddos in meal prep by having them wash or tear greens into small pieces. A salad is an easy way to keep those little hands busy while making sweet memories. The best news of all is children are much more likely to eat what they have helped to choose and prepare! Take a look at this helpful article, Mixing, Mashing, Measuring: Cooking Together As a Family for some great tips to involve your little ones in the kitchen.
Fire up the grill!
As the weather warms up it becomes easier to fire up the grill for a change of pace. All those great spring veggies can be extra tasty off the grill when cooked along the side of your choice of meat or fish. Serve a spring salad along with your favorite weekly dishes for a light, spring family meal. This Fruit and Spring Greens Salad is easy and tasty!
Plan a picnic adventure!
On a warm spring day take your family outside for a picnic. Turn the picnic into a “Tasting Adventure” as you plan and prep together. Your kiddos might be more likely to try something new with the whole family as part of the experience. If your picnic plans fall through don’t get discouraged. Move that picnic indoors! Lay out a blanket in the middle of the living room floor, use paper plates, and let the fun begin! In case you miss the ants at your picnic, try this classic recipe for Insects on a Log.
