5 Spring Foods To Eat Now
Spring is here! I love this time of year which promises warmer days and new beginnings. There is no better way to celebrate spring than by incorporating fresh, seasonal foods into your meals. As the days get longer and the weather warms up, spring vegetables and fruits burst onto the scene, offering not only incredible flavour but also a host of health benefits.
Here are a few seasonal spring foods to look out for and bring into your meals.
1. Purple Sprouting Broccoli
Purple sprouting broccoli is a springtime delicacy that's full of nutrients and flavour. Unlike its more common green cousin, purple sprouting broccoli has slender stems and a striking purple hue. It has a more delicate flavour than traditional broccoli, with a slightly nutty taste and a subtle sweetness.
Health Benefits:
Rich in vitamins C, K, and A which support immunity, skin health, and bone health.
Packed with antioxidants, purple sprouting broccoli helps protect the body from oxidative stress.
A great source of fibre which aids digestion and supports gut health.
How to Enjoy It:
Sauté with garlic and olive oil for a simple side dish.
Gentle steam and dress it with a simple drizzle of lemon and olive oil.
Add to stir fries or pasta dishes.
Roast it with garlic and chilli for extra zing.
2. Asparagus
Asparagus is one of the most iconic vegetables of the spring season, appearing in markets from April through to the end of June. Its tender, green spears are high in vitamins and minerals, and the mild, grassy flavour makes it versatile in many dishes.
Health Benefits:
Rich in folate, making it excellent dietary source for pregnant women and for supporting cell repair.
Contains vitamin K, which plays a key role in a healthy circulatory system and bone health.
High in antioxidants, such as glutathione, which helps detoxify the body.
How to Enjoy It:
Grill or roast asparagus with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper for an easy side dish.
Add it to frittatas, omelettes, or salads.
Try it in a spring traybake or paired with grilled fish for a simple yet elegant meal.
3. Radishes
Radishes are often overlooked, but their bright colour and spicy bite make them the perfect addition to any spring salad. With a satisfying crunch and a mild heat, radishes add texture and flavour to dishes.
Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C, which supports immune function.
Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
How to Enjoy It:
Slice thinly and toss into a salad for a peppery crunch.
Pickle radishes for a tangy snack or topping for tacos.
Roast radishes for a tasty side dish.
4. New Potatoes
New potatoes, harvested early in the season, have a creamy, smooth texture that’s unlike their older counterparts. These small, tender tubers are perfect for lighter spring meals and bring a fresh, earthy flavour to the table.
Health Benefits:
A good source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
High in potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Contain fibre, which promotes digestive health.
How to Enjoy It:
Boil or steam new potatoes, then toss them with olive oil, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon.
Make a simple potato salad with mustard, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs for a refreshing dish.
Roast them with garlic and rosemary for a savoury side.
5. Rhubarb
Rhubarb is a unique vegetable that is often treated like a fruit, thanks to its tart flavour. Though it’s technically a vegetable, it’s often cooked to create delicious puddings.
Health Benefits:
High in fibre, promoting healthy digestion.
Contains vitamin K, which supports bone health.
Rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which give rhubarb its vibrant red colour, and help reduce inflammation.
How to Enjoy It:
Make a classic rhubarb crumble or pie.
Stew it with strawberries for a sweet-tart compote.
Add rhubarb to smoothies for a burst of flavour.
Why Choose Seasonal Foods?
Seasonal eating isn’t just about supporting local farmers and reducing your carbon footprint (though those are important benefits!). It's also about enjoying the fresh produce at its most flavourful and nutrient-dense. So look out for these seasonal foods next time you visit your local supermarket, or local farmers market, and embrace bringing spring to the table!
