Spring is bursting with color, and not just in the garden. It’s one of our favorite times of year to get kids in the kitchen—because the produce is bright, the flavors are fresh, and there’s something magical about cooking what’s in season.

Here are five of our favorite spring ingredients, when they’re at their peak, and easy ways to get your little chefs excited to cook (and eat!) with them:

🥕 Carrots (Peak: March–June)

How to pick: Look for firm, smooth carrots with a deep color and fresh green tops (if attached).
Cook with kids: Shred them into pancake or muffin batter—perfect for sneaking in veggies without a fight. Kids can stir, scoop, and taste-test their creations!

🍓 Strawberries (Peak: April–June)

How to pick: Sniff before you pick—ripe berries smell sweet! Choose ones that are fully red with no white around the stems.
Cook with kids: Slice ‘em for yogurt parfaits or mash into a quick chia jam. Let your littles layer, mix, and build their own snack.

🌿 Peas (Peak: April–June)

How to pick: Sugar snaps should be firm, glossy, and squeaky when you bend them.
Cook with kids: Kids love popping peas from pods! Smash with lemon + olive oil for a fun toast topper, or toss into pasta.

🥚 Asparagus (Peak: March–Mid-May)

How to pick: Choose firm, straight stalks with tight tips. Thin ones are tender; thick ones are hearty.
Cook with kids: Have your child snap off the woody ends (they love this job). Slice and sauté into scrambled eggs or pasta.

🥬 Spring Greens (Spinach, Arugula, Chard – Peak: March–June)

How to pick: Look for bright, perky leaves—no slime, no sad spots.
Cook with kids: Let kids rinse the greens and toss them into smoothies, eggs, or wraps. Bonus points for a raw vs. cooked taste test!

🛒 Pro Tip:

Make your next farmer’s market trip a choose-your-own-adventure. Let your kiddo pick one new veggie to try and find a recipe together. You’ll be amazed what they’ll eat when they’re part of the process!

Cooking seasonally teaches kids to connect with their food, explore new flavors, and build kitchen confidence—and it makes your spring menu way more fun.

Cheers!