Fresh Soups and Starters for Spring: SparkRecipes SlideShow

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Fresh Soups and Starters for Spring

By Megan Patrick, Staff Writer
Celebrate the bounty of spring with seasonal fruits and vegetables in fresh-tasting appetizers and soups featuring artichokes, spinach, asparagus, strawberries, fennel and avocado, which are all at the peak of freshness now. These light dishes will wake up your mouth and your body after a cold, sluggish winter!

Cauliflower, Artichoke and Celery Root Soup

This low-calorie soup tastes so rich and creamy that your taste buds will have no idea how good it is for you!

Spinach and Artichoke Soup

The flavor of spinach artichoke dip is addictive, but the fat content makes it a once-in-a-while treat. This soup is full of all the delicious taste with far fewer calories!

Artichoke Risotto

This delicious spring starter can be made vegetarian (or even vegan) to suit your needs

Creamy Asparagus Soup

Top this creamy asparagus soup with sliced ham to add color, flavor and protein. The salty meat complements the fresh asparagus flavor perfectly.

Asparagus Wrapped in Phyllo

This elegant asparagus appetizer is a bit labor-intensive, but totally worth it when you want to delight and impress dinner guests.

Sweet Potato and Fennel Soup

The flavors of both fall and spring meld together perfectly in this soup, which can be made smooth or chunky depending on your preference.

Orange and Fennel Salad

Crunchy, sweet and tangy, this salad celebrates the humble fennel bulb. You can chop the fennel and jicama by hand or use a mandoline or food processor to get thinner slices.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

This classic salad takes full advantage of fresh seasonal produce and tastes like spring in your mouth!

Avocado Hummus

This bright green version of hummus is perfect with sliced veggies or pita bread. Bring it on a picnic or take it to a potluck!

Chilled Cucumber and Avocado Soup

The avocado in this chilled soup gives it a filling richness despite its very low calorie content.

Cream of Spinach Soup

Top this bright green soup with sautéed mushrooms or fresh herbs right before serving.

Cheesy Spinach Squares

Bake spinach and mozzarella cheese together for an irresistible appetizer.