Spring is the perfect time for family gatherings and seasonal celebrations, and the perfect menu is essential. From garden-fresh salads to comforting classics with a twist, here are five Southern spring recipes to try.
strawberry spinach salad
Start your spring feast with a refreshing strawberry spinach salad. Stir in spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pecans. Drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, the flavor perfectly balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
Southern Shrimp & Grits
For a classic Southern comfort dish with a spring twist, make Southern-style shrimp and grits. Plump shrimp are sautéed in a flavorful sauce blended with garlic, onions, and Cajun spices, then served with creamy stone-ground grits. Top with crispy bacon and fresh chives for added flavor.
Honey lemon flavored carrots
Elevate ordinary carrots into a chewy side dish with this honey-lemon carrot recipe. Simply boil sliced carrots in a mixture of honey, fresh lemon juice, and butter until soft and caramelized. Their bright citrus flavor and subtle sweetness make these carrots a fun addition to spring meals.
Buttermilk fried chicken with herb butter
No Southern meal is complete without crispy buttermilk fried chicken. The chicken is marinated in tangy buttermilk seasoned with garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper, then coated with a seasoned flour mixture and fried to the desired crispiness. Serve with a dollop of herb butter for added flavor.
strawberry shortcake
Rounding out the spring menu on a sweet note is strawberry shortcake, a traditional Southern dessert. Fresh strawberries tossed with sugar until fragrant are layered onto buttery biscuits. Place a generous amount of whipped cream on top.
Cover photo: Mona Bernhardsen
