6 Delicious Berry Dishes for Spring

As farmers markets begin to fill up with spring produce, strawberries and blueberries make their long-awaited return in the South. To celebrate, we gathered six recipes that highlight these delicious seasonal berries and their versatility. From a chilled strawberry gazpacho to a crisp pavlova topped with macerated strawberries and blueberries, these dishes are sure to satisfy your berry cravings, whether you’re in the mood for a show-stopping dessert or a savory side dish. Perfect for brunch, a dinner party, or an easy weeknight meal, consider these recipes your invitation to make the most out of berry season this spring.

Strawberry Gazpacho With Basil Oil and Marinated Cucumbers

New Orleans chef Amanda Wachowski of Beggars Banquet shares her recipe for strawberry gazpacho— a chilled soup that leans into the natural sweetness of peak-season strawberries. The red pepper, cucumber, and a splash of balsamic add a savory depth to the berries. Topped with marinated cucumbers and a drizzle of basil oil, this dish is vibrant and delicious.

Strawberry and Whitefish Ceviche

This refreshing ceviche balances sweet chopped strawberries with tender cubes of fresh whitefish, which “cook” as they marinade in lime juice. Tossed with crisp radish, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro, this dish is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures. Serve it chilled with tortilla chips for a perfect light spring appetizer or an easy, no-cook dish on a busy weeknight.

Strawberry Salad With Green Garlic

Marcus Woodham of The Bower in New Orleans combines crisp lettuce with fresh strawberries, dried cherries, and nutty toasted sunflower seeds, all tossed in a strawberry and green garlic vinaigrette to create this bright salad. The grilled green garlic and Romano cheese toppings add a savory depth of flavor. Drizzled with aged balsamic and topped with fresh parsley and chives, this is a dynamic spring salad that highlights the season’s best strawberries.

Blueberry and Prosciutto Puff Pastry

This blueberry and prosciutto puff pastry by chef Ali Ramee leans into the contrast between sweet and savory, pairing fresh blueberry compote with the salty flavors of prosciutto and white cheddar cheese, all layered over buttery, golden puff pastry. Ideal as an appetizer or the main course, it’s the kind of dish that looks impressive on a table but comes together with surprisingly little fuss.

Strawberry Miso Olive Oil Cake

Fresh strawberries are the star of this olive oil cake, as they line the bottom of the pan to create a glossy, upside-down-style topping once flipped after baking. Inside the cake, the olive oil keeps the crumb tender and moist, while the white miso balances the sweetness without overpowering it. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a simple yet sophisticated spring dessert that will have you coming back for another slice.

Spring Berry and Pistachio Pavlova

For a light and airy dessert that highlights fresh berries, look no further than this pavlova. The crisp meringue gives way to a soft interior that melts in your mouth, and the nutty flavor from the pistachio puree and the warm spice from the cardamom are a delicious addition to the sweet spring berries. Topped with macerated strawberries, blueberries, and pistachio whipped cream, enjoy bright spring flavors in every bite. 

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Recipes

Berry Cobbler

Combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Mix together the last four ingredients until smooth. Without overmixing, add the dry ingredients into the wet until everything is incorporated.

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