Spring is here, and it’s time to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your dinner table.
With longer days and warmer nights, who wants to spend hours in the kitchen? Healthy spring dinner ideas are all about quick, light, and seasonal meals that make you feel amazing without skimping on taste.
Think crisp veggies, zesty herbs, and dishes that are as colorful as they are delicious.
Ready to shake up your weeknight routine? Keep reading because these ideas will have you craving dinner before lunchtime.
Easy Spring Dinner Ideas
1
Chicken Primavera
Photo Credit: www.dinneratthezoo.com
Chicken Primavera has seared chicken breasts served atop a lemon butter pasta with plenty of fresh vegetables.
It’s a wonderfully fresh springtime dinner that’s fit for any occasion!
2
Southwest Chicken Salad
Photo Credit: simplymadeeats.com
Southwest Chicken Salad is absolutely packed with flavor and heat. Similar to the Chick-fil-A salad, it only takes less than an hour to make – with most of the time allowing the chicken to marinate.
It’s loaded with protein, and definitely filling enough to be a full meal.
3
Baked Chicken Leg Quarters
Photo Credit: recipesfromapantry.com
Baked chicken leg quarters is a simple all-in-one sheet pan dinner that’s simple and easy to make! This dish looks impressive, but requires minimal prep and few ingredients.
4
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Photo Credit: www.the-pasta-project.com
This delightful spaghetti al limone with ricotta has a delicious fresh spring taste and intense citrus flavor.
All you need is fresh ricotta and basil, lemons and grated Parmigiano or vegetarian parmesan to make the no-cook sauce.
5
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Burgers
Photo Credit: basicswithbails.com
If you love easy dinners with simple ingredients then look no further than these Chicken Burgers in the air fryer.
With very little prep and cook time, these air fryer ground chicken burgers are a healthy meal that the whole family will enjoy.
6
Pesto Grilled Salmon with Strawberry Cucumber Salsa
Photo Credit: thesuburbansoapbox.com
If you’re craving a lighter fare that checks all the right flavor boxes, then you need to make this easy Grilled Pesto Salmon with Strawberry Cucumber Salsa.
Flaky, flavorful salmon served with fresh and fun strawberry cucumber salsa is the perfect springtime dish!
7
Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowls
Photo Credit: nourishedbynic.com
These buffalo chicken rice bowls are the perfect spring meal! Made with easy buffalo chicken tenders and full of fresh seasonal veggies this is a meal everyone will love!
Pro Tip – Build Your Plate Around Seasonal Veggies
Spring veggies like asparagus, peas, radishes, and artichokes are at their peak right now. Use them as the star of your meals—think roasted asparagus with a squeeze of lemon or a crisp radish salad. Seasonal produce is fresher, more flavorful, and often more affordable.
8
Easy Pineapple Pork Chops
Photo Credit: www.acedarspoon.com
Easy pineapple pork chops combine juicy and tender pork chops with the sweet and sour flavors of pineapple, onion and garlic, and just a touch of honey for added sweetness.
This quick pork skillet is the perfect quick weeknight meal. Plus, cleanup is quick with just one pan.
9
Bruschetta Chicken Bake
Photo Credit: zenandhoney.com
Balsamic vinegar chicken meets fresh bruschetta ingredients and is topped with cheese and more balsamic vinegar for the ultimate weeknight dinner!
Bruschetta Chicken Bake is a simple, flavorful dinner everyone will obsess over!
10
Tuna Melt Stuffed Tomatoes
Photo Credit: 4sonrus.com
Ripe, juicy hollowed out tomatoes are stuffed with hearty tuna salad before being topped with spiced Havarti cheese.
Roasting the tomatoes and baking their flavor right into the tuna while melting the cheese to form a golden brown crust on top, it’s a lighter version of a tuna melt sandwich.
11
Chicken Caesar Wraps
Photo Credit: simplyscrumptiouseats.com
These quick and easy Chicken Caesar Wraps are light, healthy and delicious! They are made in about 10 minutes and are perfect for a springtime lunch or simple dinner.
12
Coconut Lime Salmon
Photo Credit: biteswithbri.com
This creamy Coconut Lime Salmon comes together in just one pan and in less than 30 minutes. It is lightly sweet and a little tangy.
Serve it over rice, noodles, or with your favorite veggies for an easy dinner.
13
Lemony Flank Steak with Pomegranate Molasses
Photo Credit: omgyummy.com
So simple, but the flavor combination is sublime. Also fabulous with lamb chops! The sauce is created while the meat rests — amazingly easy. Plus, it’s basically a 3-ingredient dish.
14
Avocado Chicken Salad
Photo Credit: www.ihearteating.com
This quick avocado chicken salad recipe takes just 15 minutes to make if you use leftover (or rotisserie) shredded chicken.
Topped with homemade cilantro lime dressing, it has all the fresh spring flavors.
15
Grilled Steak Tacos
Photo Credit: www.seasonalcravings.com
Grilled Steak Tacos with Cucumber and Corn Salsa are the perfect springtime dinner. Spicy skirt steak topped with the freshest cucumber and grilled corn salsa.
Pro Tip – Add Fresh Herbs for a Flavor Boost
Fresh herbs like mint, dill, basil, and parsley can turn a simple dish into something special. Toss them into salads, sprinkle them over roasted veggies, or mix them into sauces for a fresh spring vibe. They’re an easy way to make your meals taste vibrant without extra calories.
16
Spring Vegetable Risotto with Asparagus, Peas, Radishes and Leeks
Photo Credit: coleycooks.com
Spring Vegetable Risotto with Asparagus, Peas, Radishes and Leeks is rich, creamy, loaded with seasonal veggies and finished with lots of cheese, lemon zest and fresh herbs.
This easy vegetarian dinner can be made in under 40 minutes and is the perfect way to usher in spring!
17
Shrimp Fried Cauliflower Rice
Photo Credit: makeitskinnyplease.com
Shrimp Fried Cauliflower Rice has plump shrimp and your favorite vegetables all in a delicious sauce.
Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a dish perfect for busy weeknights that the entire family will love. No need to order takeout!
18
Lamb Kabobs
Photo Credit: www.spendwithpennies.com
Fresh cubes of lamb are lightly marinated in savory herbs and seasonings and then grilled with colorful veggies to tender perfection!
They’re healthy, packed with flavor, and best of all, an easy spring meal that everyone loves.
19
BLT Quinoa Bowls
Photo Credit: wheatbythewayside.com
Crispy bacon, spicy arugula, and juicy tomatoes are placed atop a bed of quinoa and drizzled with a tangy yogurt dressing.
Make this for the perfect meal prep lunch or satisfyingly easy dinner!
20
Spring Salad
Photo Credit: foxeslovelemons.com
Spring Salad is loaded with delicious seasonal ingredients including asparagus, snap peas, prosciutto and cheese.
Topped with a deviled egg dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner, or as an Easter salad or for Mother’s Day brunch.
Pro Tip – Keep It Light with Lean Proteins
Spring is all about lighter meals that still satisfy. Grill or bake lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish and pair them with fresh sides like quinoa salads or roasted veggies. This keeps your dinners balanced without feeling heavy.
21
Easy Blackened Chicken Tacos
Photo Credit: blessthismeal.com
Boldly seasoned blackened chicken, seasoned to perfection, nestled in warm tortillas and topped with fresh toppings, these Blackened Chicken Tacos have an explosion of flavors in each bite.
22
Shrimp Fajitas
Photo Credit: www.apinchofhealthy.com
If you need a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, then look no further than this shrimp fajitas recipe!
With juicy shrimp and a flavorful fajita filling, this dish is sure to become a favorite on your regular rotation.
23
Lime Chicken Pasta Salad
Photo Credit: stylishcravings.com
Since this lime pasta salad recipe takes less than 30 minutes to make, it’s the perfect lunch or dinner on busy days.
With the chicken, pasta, and romaine all served together, it’s easy to eat on the patio or deck.
24
Chicken Quesadilla Salad
Photo Credit: twokidsandacoupon.com
This quick and easy Chicken Quesadilla Salad takes only minutes and can be made by only keeping a few ingredients on hand. Plus, it’s fun to eat and make!
Pro Tip – Try One-Pan Recipes for Easy Cleanup
Sheet pan dinners are lifesavers when you want a quick, healthy meal without the mess. Toss chicken or tofu with spring veggies like carrots and zucchini, drizzle with olive oil and spices, and roast everything together. You’ll have dinner ready in no time with minimal dishes.
25
Mexican Zucchini
Photo Credit: www.acedarspoon.com
This easy Mexican Zucchini is made in one skillet and is sure to be a family favorite.
You will love your favorite taco ingredients mixed with light zucchini noodles creating a low-carb, filling meal.
26
Instant Pot Lemon Chicken
Photo Credit: www.savorysweetspoon.com
Packed with flavor, Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe will be on your table in under 30 minutes.
The chicken is drizzled with a zesty and bright sauce which makes it irresistible! Serve with rice, pasta, potatoes, or veggies on the side.
27
Mexican Rice Bowls with Shrimp
Photo Credit: sundaysuppermovement.com
These Mexican Rice Bowls are ready in 30 minutes, and a wonderfully fresh take on Mexican flavors.
They’re topped with garlicky shrimp, avocado, fresh veggies, and a refreshing cilantro lime dressing.
28
Sweet Corn and Zucchini Gnocchi Skillet
Photo Credit: thehealthyepicurean.com
This sweet corn and zucchini gnocchi skillet is the perfect spring skillet with fresh zucchini and sweet corn in a light creamy lime sauce with fresh basil.
There’s nothing like sweet corn and zucchini to make a meal feel like spring!
29
Salmon Sandwich
Photo Credit: foxeslovelemons.com
Prepare a Salmon Sandwich almost effortlessly by grilling or baking. Either way, you’ll end up with a restaurant-quality sandwich ready in under 30 minutes.
Pro Tip – Go Plant-Based Once a Week
Spring’s fresh produce makes it the perfect time to try meatless meals. Whip up dishes like a veggie stir-fry with tofu or a hearty grain bowl topped with sautéed greens and avocado. It’s a delicious way to eat lighter and pack in nutrients.
30
Easy Chicken Stir Fry
Photo Credit: cookingwithmouna.com
With simple and quick steps, using a hot pan and a handful of vibrant veggies, you can whip up a healthy and satisfying Stir Fry dinner.
The tenderness of the chicken, the aroma of fresh garlic, and the crunch of bell peppers all come together quicker and tastier than takeout.
31
Basil Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Photo Credit: biteswithbri.com
This quick & easy Basil Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is the perfect light spring dinner. It is full of fresh blistered tomatoes, basil, parmesan cheese, and garlic.
Best of all, it comes together in only about 15 minutes!
32
Greek Orzo Salad
Photo Credit: www.mybakingaddiction.com
This light Greek orzo salad is filled with veggies, herbs, and a bright lemony vinaigrette. Serve it alongside your favorite bread for a light spring meal!
33
Lemon Chicken and Asparagus Sheet Pan
Photo Credit: getinspiredeveryday.com
Full of flavor and super easy to make, sheet pan Lemon Chicken and Asparagus is packed with veggies and very flavorful thanks to the Herbs de Provence along with the zesty lemon.
34
Thai Yellow Curry with Chicken
Photo Credit: www.simplysuwanee.com
Authentic Thai Yellow Curry with Chicken is mild with a savory and creamy sauce of coconut cream, yellow potatoes, and chicken.
This recipe is super simple, using only a few ingredients with minimal steps.
35
Shrimp Poke Bowl
Photo Credit: www.allergyfreealaska.com
Full of fresh, healthy ingredients, this shrimp poke bowl is a feast for the eyes and your stomach.
It’s a satisfying meal filled with lean protein, whole grain brown rice, fresh veggies, and topped with a Sriracha mayo that packs a spicy punch!
Final Thoughts
When it comes to creating healthy spring dinners, it’s all about embracing the season’s freshest ingredients and keeping things simple yet flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, these meals are designed to be approachable and satisfying. Here are some actionable tips to make your spring dinners not just healthy but also stress-free and exciting:
- Plan Around Seasonal Produce: Spring gives us asparagus, peas, radishes, leeks, and more. Build your meals around these ingredients for maximum flavor and nutrition. For example, toss roasted asparagus with lemon zest or whip up a pea risotto for a cozy yet fresh dinner.
- Keep It Light but Filling: Balance is key. Pair lean proteins like salmon or chicken with vibrant salads or veggie-packed sides. A grilled salmon with a cucumber-dill yogurt sauce can be both hearty and refreshing.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or dill can completely transform a dish. Sprinkle them over roasted veggies or mix them into dressings for an instant upgrade.
- Sheet Pan Dinners Are Your Friend: Save time on cleanup by roasting everything together. Think one-pan lemon chicken with spring vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts.
- Go Global for Inspiration: Incorporate flavors from around the world using spring-friendly ingredients. Thai-inspired noodle bowls with fresh veggies or Mediterranean-style grain bowls with lemony greens are always crowd-pleasers.
- Prep Ahead When You Can: Chop veggies or marinate proteins ahead of time so dinner comes together in minutes. This works wonders for busy weeknights.
- Don’t Overlook Plant-Based Options: Spring is the perfect time to try meatless meals. A creamy polenta topped with sautéed spring greens or a vibrant veggie stir-fry can be just as satisfying as any meat-based dish.
- Make It Fun: Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore. Try something new like a spring vegetable pot pie or homemade flatbreads topped with seasonal toppings like arugula and goat cheese.
Healthy spring dinner ideas don’t have to be complicated—they just need a little creativity and the right ingredients. So grab those fresh veggies, fire up the stove (or grill), and treat yourself to meals that taste as good as they make you feel!