30 dishes that put spring vegetables in the spotlight

What vegetables to eat in spring?

Officially, the spring season begins on March 20 or 21, depending on the year. However, certain “spring” vegetables are already available from the first days of March.

In March

While certain winter vegetables such as cabbage, leeks and carrots are still available on the shelves, squash are giving way to artichokes, radishes, spinach, fennel and beets. Around mid-March, early vegetables also appear on the markets and in stores. At the end of March, you can already enjoy the first asparagus.

Focus on early vegetables

So-called “early” or “new” vegetables are vegetables harvested before maturity. In fact, their flesh is more tender, their flavor is sweeter and the skin is thinner. They therefore do not need to be peeled.
The nutritional aspect is also interesting, since their vitamin and mineral content is at its peak, and the fibers they contain are easy to digest.
If the new vegetable season extends until July, you will find carrots, potatoes, new asparagus or spring onions mainly between March and April.

In April

Did you expect it? Asparagus is officially making a comeback on our plates! We are therefore happy to cook them in all sauces. In velouté, salad, pan-fried, glazed… They are used in many recipes.
Our advice for choosing them, make sure that they stand up straight, and that the bud scales are tight. Finally, if the upper is brittle and the heel translucent, it's a win.
Another product to (re)discover in April is morels, perfect for enhancing a sauce, in a pie or as an accompaniment to roast meat.
Finally, the tomato is available again. And we are talking about seasonal tomatoes, because although they are sold all year round, the official peak season for tomatoes takes place between April and September.

In May

The fifth month of the year is placed under the sign of green. Indeed, May is the time when we enjoy peas, artichokes and beans. These are only available for a few weeks, so take advantage of them during this period. It will also be the last time to taste the asparagus, so don't deprive yourself of it.

How to cook spring vegetables?

On weekday evenings, the emphasis is on speed. A vegetable pan with fish or meat, or vegetable pasta will delight the whole family with minimal effort. Do you prefer lightness? Create a complete salad with seasonal vegetables, proteins and starchy foods.
At the end of the week, since we have more time, we can start preparing all-in-one spring family dishes, such as spring stews, savory tarts, or oven dishes. Perfect recipes for entertaining on Sunday lunch.

Looking for inspiration? Here are 30 spring vegetable dishes that will make your mouth water.