The Barefoot Contessa’s Bright and Fresh Spring Recipes

Asparagus is one of early spring’s most anticipated treats. This simple preparation draws out its deliciously bitter flavour.

A fantastic roast chicken recipe is something every cook should have in their arsenal. This one combines fresh spring chicken with lemon and garlic for a comforting, classic main.

This salmon recipe is simple enough for a weeeknight dinner but also elegant enough when entertaining guests. The seasoned fillets are served with warm cherry tomatoes in balsamic.

Use local shiitake, portobello and cremini mushrooms for the freshest earthy flavours in this delightful creamy soup from The Barefoot Contessa.

Bow tie pasta offers an adorable and encouraging vessel for kids (and grownups) who need a delicious incentive to eat their seasonal vegetables.

Ease meets elegance with this simple sautéed spinach dish that is both a celebration of fresh green produce and a comforting side to complement most mains.

Peanut butter is the not-so-secret ingredient in this delightful meal-in-a-bowl that pairs a rich and flavourful sauce with fresh, crunchy sugar snap peas, scallions and red bell pepper that’s packed with Vitamin C.

Nothing says spring light fresh, bright lemon, and Ina’s lemon bars are like a burst of sunshine with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or bringing dessert to a party, these are the perfect sweet treat.

Traditional chicken soup meets fresh spring vegetables and herbs for a fragrant broth, while matzo balls turn this dish into a satisfying side or light lunch.

This bright recipe combines green peas, spinach and pesto for a verdant bowl of spring pasta.

Dress up in-season asparagus with a savoury sprinkle of Parmesan and a refreshing squeeze of lemon.

Take advantage of spring’s first bounty with this creamy soup, seasoned with new leeks, and made smooth with cream and Parmesan cheese.

This vibrant cakes is bursting with the flavour of fresh carrots and pineapple, smothered in cream cheese frosting and decorated with sunny, fresh pineapple studs. It’s the perfect cap for a meal of fresh seasonal delights.

It doesn’t have to be a special occasion to make a seasoned rack of lamb for dinner. Serve with a generous dollop of homemade tzatziki and a side of spring veggies.

Fennel’s peak season begins to wane just as peas are coming in. Celebrate their short shared growing season with this creamy green soup, a perfect pick for nippy spring days.

This colourful salad incorporates fresh baby spinach, kale and frisee with roasted chicken, apples, bacon, nuts, egg and Cheddar for a robust side dish or light main.

Use the spring bounty of broccoli rabe as part of this flavour-packed pasta dish that takes orecchiette and combines it with Italian sausage, San Marzano tomatoes, and freshly grated Parmesan.

When you want something sweet after a heavy meal, this light citrus dessert is the answer. Made with lemon curd and freshly squeezed lemon juice, it’s topped with a homemade whipped cream.

If broccoli isn’t already one of your family’s favourite veggies, this dish will quickly make the green florets and stalks a go-to side dish. Roasting brings out the sweet, nutty flavour which is complemented by the salty Parmesan.

These versatile cakes of salmon, fresh vegetables and seasonal herbs can be made bite-sized for a perfect appetizer, or larger for a stand out main. Be sure to save leftovers; sandwiched into a fresh, crusty ciabatta and smeared with mayo, they create delightful sandwiches.

Tuscan kale is tossed with diced pancetta, shaved Pecorino cheese, toasted cubes of bread, and a homemade salad dressing.

Breaded chicken breasts are lightly fried in butter and olive oil until golden and crispy, then topped with salad greens dressed in a tart lemon vinaigrette.

Use the freshest new potatoes, baby carrots and yellow onions you can find to infuse this comforting soup with a dash of spring flair.