Spring Forward with 6 New Recipes to Awaken Your Palate
March 8, 2024
By Gretchen Westdal-Centers
As the days warm and flowers bloom, we crave a sense of newness and novelty. These recipes feature noteworthy ingredients that focus on freshness and flavor while complementing the favorites that grace our plates no matter what time of year.
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Pesto Turkey Salad and Wrap | National Turkey Federation
What do you get when you combine the savory satisfaction of turkey breast with the mouthwatering blend of basil and Parmesan? The perfect, quick lunch or dinner option packed with lean protein and fresh veggies — all conveniently wrapped in a fulfilling whole wheat tortilla. The combination of flavors in this Pesto Turkey Salad and Wrap recipe showcases how healthy can not only be delicious but also easy and accessible to even the pickiest of palates. Find the recipe here.
Photo credit: National Turkey Federation
Beef Fajita Salad with Mango-Serrano Vinaigrette | Iowa Beef Industry Council
Salad for dinner can make some people roll their eyes or shake their heads in dismay. Prove them wrong with this bright yet savory and satisfying Beef Fajita Salad with Mango-Serrano Vinaigrette dressing. The sweet mango meets the zesty and zippy serrano pepper to showcase the star of the show — a top sirloin steak. This mouthwatering combination is layered with fresh cilantro and crisp radishes to give a twist to one’s idea of a salad. The best part is that you can do this all on the grill to enjoy the weather and avoid a messy kitchen. Find the recipe here.
Photo credit: Iowa Beef Industry Council
Sausage and Potato Foil Packets | Iowa Pork Producers Association
As Iowans, we know that we want to maximize our outdoor time when the weather turns nice. This Sausage and Potato Foil Packet recipe is perfect for the grill. Not only is it easy to prep, make and eat — but clean up is a breeze. And that gets you back outside to enjoy the sunset with loved ones. This classic dish features delicious, full-flavored pork sausage nestled between an array of bountiful veggies. Use this recipe in the summer and fall, and harvest your own sweet corn, green beans and potatoes for the perfect farm-fresh meal. Enjoy the recipe here.
Photo credit: Iowa Pork Producers Association
Key Lime Yogurt Bars | Undeniably Dairy
You can almost smell the salt air and sun on your face when you bite into these Key Lime Yogurt Bars. Transport yourself to an oceanside beach town by making these bars that use delicious and filling Greek yogurt combined with zesty lime and cool whipped cream, all layered over scrumptious graham crackers. It’s perfect for a party treat or something to stash away in the fridge when the weather turns warm. You'll feel like you’re taking a much-deserved staycation in the backyard. Find the easy-to-make recipe here.
Photo credit: Undeniably Dairy
Grits and Greens Egg Bowl | Incredible Egg
Any meal that multi-tasks as breakfast, lunch or dinner is a win! This Grits and Greens bowl will delight any time of day with its delectable eggs, hearty country ham, savory grits and leafy collard greens. It’s a time-tested combination of flavors that will make you wish for some front porch sitting while sipping on sweet tea. This is a showstopper of a recipe that will surprise and delight the family or draw appreciation when served as brunch at a spring soirée. You can even cut prep time out by using instant grits. Don’t worry, your secret will be safe with us! Start cooking here.
Photo credit: American Egg Board
Edamame and Tan Soybean Spread | The Soyfoods Council
Spring brings us all out of hibernation with potlucks, parties and picnics. If you're looking for a delicious, easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that features healthy, protein-packed edamame, look no further. There’s nothing better than a satisfying snack that's not only right in protein, nutrients and fiber but can also be used on sandwiches! Get the quick, plant-based recipe here.
Photo credit: The Soyfoods Council