Spring beckons with its bounty of fresh vegetables, inviting you to explore a variety of dishes that showcase the season’s best. Kick off your culinary adventures with a dish inspired by the Mediterranean coast: tender salmon fillets nestled in a traditional Provençal barigoule. This aromatic braise combines artichokes, herbs, and white wine to create a light yet flavorful experience. Move on to a refreshing Cambodian-style salad featuring crisp cucumbers, springy rice noodles, and a zesty dressing that captures the essence of spring. Finally, immerse yourself in the Tuscan countryside with a bowl of garmugia—a lush spring soup filled with fresh greens, pancetta, and a touch of Parmesan.
Salmon with Mediterranean Barigoule
Servings: 4
Experience the delight of Provençal cooking with this salmon and barigoule recipe. Barigoule, a flavorful braise with artichokes and white wine, is brightened with earthy cremini mushrooms and aromatic herbs. To simplify your weeknight preparations, use high-quality canned artichokes, which maintain their texture and flavor when gently warmed in the broth.
Key Technique: When cooking the salmon, let it simmer gently to ensure it remains tender and moist. Keep the pan uncovered to prevent the salmon from becoming too soft.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets, 6 ounces each
- Kosher salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, sliced
- 2 shallots, chopped
- Fresh tarragon, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 14 ounces canned artichoke hearts
- 2 tablespoons butter
Chilled Rice Noodle and Cucumber Salad
Servings: 4
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Cambodia with this chilled salad, perfect for spring. Crisp cucumbers, tender rice noodles, and crunchy peanuts are tossed in a tangy fish sauce dressing, offering a refreshing bite.
Salad Tip: Allow the dressed salad to sit briefly before serving to meld the flavors and enhance the texture.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces rice vermicelli
- ⅓ cup fish sauce
- ¼ cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- English cucumber, julienned
- Dried shrimp (optional)
- Fresno or jalapeño chilies, sliced
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts
- Fresh basil or mint
- Lime wedges for garnish
Tuscan Spring Vegetable Soup
Servings: 4
Celebrate the freshness of spring with a Tuscan-inspired soup. This light yet hearty soup combines peas, asparagus, and artichokes in a savory broth enriched with pancetta and a hint of Parmesan.
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, exclude the pancetta and add more vegetables for a robust flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 ounces pancetta, chopped
- 4 scallions, sliced
- 4 sprigs of thyme
- 1½ quarts low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
- Parmesan rind (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan
- Artichoke hearts, asparagus, and peas
Explore these spring-inspired recipes to bring a touch of culinary innovation to your table. Enjoy the fusion of traditional flavors with modern twists as you celebrate the season’s abundance. For more delightful recipes and tips, visit our culinary hub.