12 Easy Weeknight Spring Dinners You’ll Want to Make on Repeat

Plate of spaghetti with peas charred scallions and parmesan cheese — Credit:
Nico Schinco

As the soup and stew season fades, many people begin to crave lighter, fresher dishes that highlight spring produce and flavors such as lemons and asparagus. Even as the weather warms, busy weeknights remain, so it helps to have go-to meals that are both easy to prepare and satisfying after a long day.

To make the most of the season, we've rounded up a collection of weeknight recipes that balance flavor, simplicity, and fresh ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for pasta or something lighter, like fresh fish, there's an option for everyone. Keep reading to find a spring dinner you'll want to make on repeat.

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Spinach Lasagna

Traditional lasagna becomes vegetarian when you replace the meat with vegetables like spinach and zucchini, as in this version. Layer this spinach lasagna with three types of cheese and bechamel sauce for a fresh twist on the classic meat pasta dish. It's a perfect dinner recipe for when you want to save leftovers for lunch the next day.

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02 of 12

Salmon, Asparagus, and Leek in Parchment

Fresh fish fillets and vegetables make an easy spring dinner for one, two, or more. Cooking salmon en papillote—wrapped in parchment—is a mess-proof way to bring out flavor without adding much oil or butter, and it helps keep the fish tender and moist.

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03 of 12

Gnocchi With Peas and Egg

A one-pot meal is always a weeknight favorite. Fresh peas and arugula cook alongside the gnocchi, while a touch of cream and Parmesan creates a rich sauce. Jammy, soft-cooked egg finishes the dish and adds a satisfying source of protein.

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04 of 12

Orange Pork With Watercress Rice

Orange marmalade, fish sauce, fresh lime juice, garlic, and ginger come together to create a rich, syrupy glaze for juicy pork tenderloin. Serve it with rice and watercress for a complete, satisfying meal.

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05 of 12

Campanelle With Zucchini and Mint

We crave pasta year-round, and this version makes the most of bold spring flavors. Cook rounds of zucchini until tender and golden, then toss them with garlic, red pepper flakes, Kalamata olives, and lemon juice for a bright, briny sauce. Finish with ricotta salata and fresh mint for a dish you'll want to make again and again.

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06 of 12

Asparagus and Potato Soup With Ginger

Creamy ginger asparagus soup — Rache Marek

Serve this creamy, vegan soup warm or chilled. It has a rich texture without any dairy. Pair it with crusty bread for a full meal, or serve it alongside a salad as a spring-ready side dish.

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07 of 12

Lemony Shrimp Scampi

Lemon brings vibrant citrus flavor to spring, and this shrimp scampi makes the most of it. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's bright, garlicky, and filling.

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08 of 12

Asparagus, Leek, and Gruyère Quiche

Asparagus Leek Gruyere Quiche — Jake Sternquist

Quiche for dinner is always a winner. This version highlights spring produce, with asparagus, leeks, and Gruyère cheese for just the right amount of richness. Use a store-bought or homemade pie crust, depending on how much time you have, and enjoy this fan-favorite any night of the week.

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09 of 12

Shrimp-Scampi Pan Bake

On a single sheet pan, shrimp tossed with garlic and lemon are broiled over a bed of roasted potatoes and asparagus. This dish highlights fresh spring flavors, and because it uses just one pan, cleanup is easy.

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10 of 12

Greek Chicken One-Pan Pasta

A bowl of pasta with chicken and herbs served with a fork — Jake Sternquist

Keeping a one-pan pasta in your weeknight rotation is always a smart move. This version uses just five ingredients and delivers bright flavor from chicken broth, fresh lemon, and dill stirred into the pasta. Finish each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil for a fresh, zesty dinner that's ready in less than 30 minutes.

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Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry with Green Beans

lemon chicken with green beans and rice — Justin Walker

If you can't get enough of lemon (like us), this bright, fresh sauce—made with lemon, sesame oil, and ginger—adds bold flavor to stir-fried chicken breasts and green beans. This weeknight-friendly dinner comes together in under an hour and makes delicious leftovers for lunch the next day.

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12 of 12

Spaghettini With Charred Scallions and Peas

This bright pasta brings together sweet peas and smoky charred scallions for a simple dish that feels fresh yet deeply flavorful. Tossed with a silky, lemony, Parmesan-laced sauce, it’s a quick, vegetarian dinner that makes the most of peak-season produce