Seasonal Ingredients to Add to Your Plate This Spring
Spring is a time of refreshing—not just for nature but for our minds and bodies, too. With warmer weather and longer days, it’s the perfect opportunity to brighten up your meals with vibrant, seasonal ingredients that nourish and energize. Adding fresh, in-season produce to your plate not only boosts the flavors of your meals but also brings along a range of health benefits. Today we are sharing some seasonal ingredients to add to your plate that will have you feeling your best.
The Benefits of Seasonal Ingredients
Seasonal ingredients aren’t just about taste—they’re also packed with nutrients and health benefits that cater to what our bodies need during specific times of the year. Here are a few true spring staples to incorporate into your meals this season:
Asparagus: A quintessential spring vegetable, asparagus is packed with antioxidants and nutrients like folate and vitamins A, C, and K. It helps support digestion, boosts immunity, and promotes healthy skin.
Radishes: These crunchy, peppery root veggies are full of vitamin C and naturally detoxifying properties, making them perfect for shaking off that winter sluggishness.
Peas: Sweet and tender, spring peas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. They support heart health, stabilize blood sugar levels, and keep you feeling energized throughout the day.
Strawberries: While strawberries lean into late spring, their bright flavor and high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants make them perfect for freshening up salads and desserts alike.
Spinach: This early spring leafy green is a powerhouse of nutrients like iron, magnesium, and vitamin K. Spinach helps improve energy levels, reduces mental fog, and keeps you feeling fresh and focused.
By incorporating these ingredients into your meals, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also fueling your body and mind with the tools they need to thrive.
Healthy Favorites at The Leaf
Spring is often seen as a time of renewal, making it the perfect season to prioritize health and wellness. Here are some refreshing dishes from The Leaf we think you'll enjoy this season:
Chicken Baja Bowl (Gluten-Free): Packed with flavor and texture, this bowl features cilantro jasmine rice, black beans, roasted corn, avocado, feta cheese, and pico de gallo. The black beans and corn provide fiber and protein, while avocado, a superfood known for being a rich source of healthy fats, helps support heart health and provide sustained energy. Cilantro is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and potassium, adding a refreshing burst of flavor to complete the dish.
Quinoa Bowl (Vegan and Gluten-Free): A refreshing and nourishing bowl that’s as vibrant as spring itself. It features a medley of beets, arugula, shredded carrots, roasted chickpeas, avocado, and a sweet vinaigrette. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s the perfect dish to fuel your day.
Veggie Flat: A savory, hearty option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This dish features basil pesto, mozzarella cheese, spinach, mushrooms, tomato, and scrambled egg. It’s a nutrient-packed flatbread perfect for brunch or a lighter dinner, offering a great mix of protein, vitamins, and springtime vibes.
This season, let the fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors inspire you to add a little more spring to your plate. Whether you’re stopping by The Leaf or preparing a meal at home, let’s celebrate the season with good food, good health, and good company!
The Leaf, located in downtown Wooster, offers a vast menu, making breakfast through dinner a delightful experience! Open Tuesday through Sunday, our culinary team creates fantastic dishes that are sure to delight you. Bring a friend or dine solo for a relaxing meal away from home.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest specials and new menu items. Make your reservations online or by calling 330-804-0126.