Nice weather has finally arrived!  Yippee!  So before summer heats things up, invite some friends over for a healthy casual brunch.

Spring is one of my favorite times to entertain. Everyone wants to be outside, so a delicious spring brunch is just what’s needed to chase away the last of the winter blahs and put everyone in the mood for warmer weather.

Brunch is an easy way to entertain, too.  Many brunch recipes can be made ahead, so party planning is a snap, and spring produce is a delicious change from winter fare. 

Decorate with some flowers or herbs from your garden, a starched tablecloth and napkins and your prettiest plates and glasses.  Brunch doesn’t have to be fussy –good friends and good food is all you really need. 

When planning your meal, take advantage of fresh produce that is in season now.   Look for:

• Citrus
• artichokes
• beets
• chives
• asparagus
• sweet onions
• shallots
• greens, like arugula, chard, spinach and lettuces
• kiwis
• lemons
• carrots

Strawberries (Here in the Deep South, we’re already getting strawberries. In fact, I got a few handfuls from a gardening friend just the other day.  They were so delicious, I simply washed them ate them right then and there.  So if you can get fresh, local strawberries now, great.  If not, remember they are just around the corner!)

Now that you know what you’re looking for, grab your favorite tote and head out to the farmer’s market.  All you really need are a few dishes, coffee and a cocktail.  

Below are a few menu choices from around the web.  Choose one or two dishes from each section to create an easy and delicious menu. Bon Appetite!

Main Courses 

Huevos Rancheros Quesadillas

Spinach Frittata with Creole Sauce

Chai Oatmeal

Organic Pancakes And Waffles

Herbed Frittata With Edamame

Sides and Salads

Grapefruit Ambrosia

Spiced Mixed Greens with Fruit

Spring Onion Tart

Citrus Gazpacho

Roasted Asparagus Salad

Simple Citrus Fruit Salad

Go-Alongs

Honey Biscuits

Waffles With Fresh Salsa

Pao Doce

Beverages

Vanilla Cafe Au Lait

Fleury Fleur de l’Europe Brut Organic Champagne

Mimosa using Prosecco Perlage Riva Moretta