SPRING! It is the time for warmer weather, with a combination of some rainy and cold days. But, we know that the sun will be shining more and we can look forward to pool and patio days. I also love Spring because it means the farmers markets start, we start to plant in our garden, and some of the items we eat change because of the season.

Tune in for some of my favorite foods below to add onto your plate.

Asparagus – to me, this vegetable screams the Spring season! You can ensure you are getting some fiber added into your diet with the bright green color asparagus provides. There are lots of options to add asparagus into; quiches, soup, or even bacon wrapped asparagus.

Strawberries – one of our family favorites! These berries really can go into anything, including smoothies, yogurt parfaits, fruit salsa, or simply just eating them by themselves! Strawberries add fiber, yes, but also Vitamin C, and even folate. All can be helpful when those allergies pop up.

Radishes – Don’t stop reading just yet! Radishes have really grown on me; they are great roasted with other veggies, which can help soften them up and bring in a sweeter flavor. Radishes are a cruciferous vegetable and have that Vitamin C to help boost your immune system even more! If you still feel like you need some time to warm up to them, try Rozanne Gold’s Bucatini with French Breakfast Radishes, Bacon & Greens or the Roasted Radish and Herbed Ricotta Omelet. Radishes aren’t the real main piece of these dishes, but they give a nice touch.

Salmon – fire up the grill! Spring evenings (and all throughout the year, in my opinion) are just a great time to grill salmon, or any other protein. Salmon is a fatty fish but provides omega-3 fatty acids to support heart health, fight inflammation and protect the immune system. I’m already planning to put this Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon with Potatoes and Asparagus in our meal plan rotation – everything can go onto the grill or onto a single sheet pan.

Arugula – I love a good salad, especially in nice weather. Try adding arugula to your salad! It is an easy way to add different greens that provide different benefits and flavor. Arugula is a little peppery, and really could go along with any protein and toppings for a nice change. Arugula also provides antioxidants, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Folate. I love the sound of this Arugula Pear Salad. It sounds like the perfect spring salad!

Here’s a challenge – try one of these foods and add it into your weekly rotation. Try something new or a recipe you usually wouldn’t. That is all part of Spring; as new life blooms, so do we.