Spring brings a burst of life not only to the outdoors but also to kitchens across the country. As the weather warms, a vibrant array of tender greens, sweet fruits, and earthy vegetables comes into season, offering cooks fresh opportunities to create light, flavorful meals. Eating seasonally ensures you enjoy produce at its peak flavor and nutritional value—and supports local farmers in the process.

Here is a closer look at some of spring’s standout ingredients, along with preparation ideas and tips for sourcing the freshest finds.

Top Spring Ingredients to Know

Asparagus
Asparagus is one of spring’s most celebrated vegetables, prized for its tender spears and delicate flavor. Look for firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips.

• Prep Tip: Lightly grill, roast, or blanch asparagus to preserve its crispness and vibrant color.
  
• Sourcing Tip: Purchase asparagus from local farmers’ markets early in the season for the sweetest flavor.
  

Peas
Sugar snap peas, snow peas, and English peas thrive in cool spring weather. Fresh peas offer a natural sweetness and tender texture.

• Prep Tip: Shell fresh peas and sauté briefly with mint for a simple side dish, or add snap peas to salads and stir-fries.
  
• Sourcing Tip: Check farmers’ markets near you for freshly picked varieties.
  

Strawberries
Spring marks the start of strawberry season in many regions. Look for berries that are deep red all the way to the stem, indicating ripeness.

• Prep Tip: Enjoy them raw, toss into salads, or use them to top yogurt and desserts.
  
• Sourcing Tip: Local berries have a sweeter, more intense flavor than mass-market options—another reason to shop close to home.
  

Radishes
With their crisp texture and peppery bite, radishes bring brightness to spring dishes.

• Prep Tip: Slice thinly for salads, roast to mellow their spice, or use radish greens in pestos.
  
• Sourcing Tip: Look for bunches with fresh, perky greens still attached, a sign of recently harvested radishes.
  

Fava Beans
Though they require a bit of prep, fresh fava beans reward you with buttery texture and nutty flavor.

• Prep Tip: Shell the beans, blanch briefly, then remove the outer skins before sautéing with olive oil and garlic.
  
• Sourcing Tip: Fresh favas are best found at farmers’ markets from late spring through early summer.
  

Ramps
Sometimes called wild leeks, ramps have a pungent, garlicky flavor and are highly sought after in spring.

• Prep Tip: Sauté ramps with butter or add them to omelets and pasta dishes.
  
• Sourcing Tip: Since ramps are often foraged, they are typically available only at select local markets and specialty grocers.
  

Artichokes
These edible flower buds are a spring delicacy on the West Coast and beyond.

• Prep Tip: Steam whole artichokes and serve with lemon butter, or stuff and bake them for a hearty side.
  
• Sourcing Tip: Choose heavy, tightly closed artichokes for the best quality.
  

Tips for Sourcing Seasonal Produce

• Shop Farmers’ Markets: Buying directly from farmers ensures maximum freshness and often better prices.
  
• Use Seasonal Guides: Check resources like the Seasonal Food Guide to find what is in season in your state.
  
• Join a CSA Program: Community-supported agriculture (CSA) boxes deliver fresh, seasonal produce directly to your door while supporting local farms.
  

Eating with the Seasons: A Fresh Start

Spring is the season of renewal, and nowhere is that more beautifully expressed than in your kitchen. By focusing on seasonal produce, you unlock the freshest flavors, boost your meals’ nutritional value, and strengthen your connection to your community’s food landscape.
Celebrate spring by filling your plate with nature’s best—and enjoy the richness that only truly seasonal eating can offer.