From Market to Table: A Guide to Spring Produce

Spring heralds a season of renewal and rejuvenation, not just in the natural world but also in our kitchens. As the cold, barren months give way to warmth and growth, farmers’ markets and grocery store produce sections burst with various fresh, vibrant offerings. This abundance of spring produce invites us to refresh our meals and incorporate the season‘s best into our cooking. This guide will help you navigate the bounty of spring produce, from selection to preparation, ensuring that your springtime dishes are as fresh and flavorful as possible.

Embracing the Bounty of Spring

The Stars of Spring Produce

• Asparagus: One of spring’s first arrivals, asparagus is versatile and packed with flavor. Look for firm, brightly green stalks with tightly closed tips.
• Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, strawberries herald warmer days. Choose bright red, firm berries with a strong fragrance for the best taste.
• Peas: Fresh peas, including sugar snap peas and snow peas, add sweetness and crunch to any dish. They should be bright green and plump.
• Radishes: Radishes, known for their crunchy texture and spicy taste, bring color and flavor to salads and side dishes.
• Artichokes: These are at their peak in spring. Select globes with tight, compact leaves that feel heavy for their size.
• Rhubarb: Rhubarb, celebrated for its tangy taste, is a beloved spring choice, particularly in sweets. Opt for stalks that are firm, crisp, and deep red in color.
• Green Onions and Leeks: These offer a mild, oniony flavor that enhances a variety of recipes, from soups to salads.

Tips for Selecting Spring Produce

• Freshness is critical: Choose vibrant and fresh produce, avoiding anything wilted or bruised.
• Size matters: Smaller fruit and vegetable specimens are often more flavorful and tender.
• Use your senses: Smell and touch the product. Fragrance is a good indicator of flavor, especially with strawberries and herbs.

Culinary Inspiration: Bringing Spring Produce to Your Table

Asparagus and Pea Risotto

Celebrate the flavors of spring with a creamy risotto that pairs the tender crunch of asparagus with the sweetness of peas. Top off with a dash of lemon zest and Parmesan for a light and fulfilling dish. Avoid making risotto from scratch with Loretta’s rice sides, and add your asparagus and peas.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

Combine fresh strawberries’ sweetness with spinach’s earthiness for a salad that screams spring. Add goat cheese, slivered almonds, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a perfect balance of flavors.

Rhubarb and Strawberry Crumble

Make the most of the classic combination of rhubarb and strawberries by baking them into a delicious crumble. The rhubarb’s tartness perfectly complements the strawberries’ sweetness, all topped with a crispy, buttery oat topping.

Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli

Artichokes might seem daunting, but grilling enhances their sweetness and perfectly matches zesty lemon aioli. This dish makes for a stunning appetizer or side.

Radish and Butter Tartine

For something simple yet elegantly French, top a slice of crusty bread with high-quality butter, thinly sliced radishes, and a pinch of sea salt. This classic combination allows the radishes’ crisp, peppery flavor to shine.

Making the Most of Spring Produce

• Preserve freshness: Store your spring produce properly to maintain its freshness. Most vegetables do well in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, while berries should be kept dry and refrigerated.
• Be adventurous: Spring is the perfect time to try new vegetables or fruits you haven’t cooked with before. Experimenting with new recipes can lead to delightful discoveries.
• Eat raw when possible**: Many spring vegetables are delicious and offer maximum flavor and nutritional benefits. Consider adding raw peas, radishes, or asparagus to salads.

Spring’s bounty offers a fresh palette of flavors and textures to invigorate your cooking. By selecting the best of what the season offers and incorporating these ingredients into your recipes or ours, you can celebrate the essence of spring on your plate. Let the season’s bounty, from the crunchiness of fresh peas to the sourness of rhubarb, inspire your cooking explorations and infuse your table with the delight of spring.