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You might have noticed that the evenings aren’t as dark any more and may even be able to get away from work while the sun is still out. The days are also starting to warm up a bit and spring is definitely in the air, which means summer will be here before you know it.
While we aren’t quite firing up the barbecue and digging out our shorts and swimsuits just yet, the lighter evenings and rise in temperature does mean we don’t need to cook as many winter warmers.
Heavy and filling foods are great throughout autumn and winter as they help you feel warm and give you enough energy to fight the cold. But now that the days are getting a bit more comfortable, you can lighten up your meals and enjoy some of the fresh flavours of spring – even if it is raining cats and dogs.
To help you embrace the new season and start getting ready for warm days and sunshine, here are a few lighter bites that will still fill you up and could be perfect for a spring evening.
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Beer lime chicken skewers
Skewers are the perfect option for summer, with various kebabs being popular barbecue offerings. While we aren’t quite into the warmest season yet, you can still enjoy this seasonal favourite, although you may want to cook them in your kitchen rather than brave the great outdoors just yet. Give this recipe from The Petite Cook a try and enjoy delicious fresh flavours that will definitely get you in the mood for spring.
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Salmon teriyaki with noodles
Asian flavours always have a nice fresh taste to them, while salmon is one of the ultimate options for a light meal. This is why this recipe from Hungry Happy Healthy is a great choice come rain or shine. The flavours work perfectly with the salmon while the pak choi with the noodles adds a nice bit of crunch. In fact, this recipe can be enjoyed hot or cold, so you can enjoy leftovers for your lunch.
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Mediterranean vegetable and hummus tart
Another area of the world that does great fresh flavours to change up your meals after a heavy winter menu. The Mediterranean diet includes plenty of fresh vegetables, making meals look brighter as well as taste amazing. It also means your dishes will be healthier. Try out this easy and delicious tart recipe from Wallflower Kitchen, which is perfect for serving up with a light salad this spring.
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Pancetta, pea and Manchego cheese risotto
Risotto doesn’t have to take forever and it can actually be a great light meal to enjoy on a spring evening. Rather than heavy options like mushroom or butternut squash, introduce some fresher flavours like pea, which will introduce a different texture and work perfectly for this month. Charlotte’s Lively Kitchen’s recipe for pancetta, pea and Manchego cheese is a great fast recipe to try and can easily be made suitable for vegetarians.
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Crispy coconut crepes with prawns
Why not try something a little bit different this spring and enjoy as many sunshine flavours as possible all on one plate? Lavender and Lovage’s Vietnamese-inspired recipe combines fresh prawns with crunchy vegetables and a tropical hint of coconut that is sure to be a big hit this month. After all, if you can’t be on a white sand beach in Vietnam, you might as well bring the country to your kitchen!
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