Asparagus and White Bean Soup

This hearty main-course dish celebrates spring

It’s spring in our part of the world. But the weather service has issued a freeze warning. That’s April for you.

That’s also why we still crave hearty soups for dinner. Like this Asparagus and White Bean soup, which is quick and easy to prepare. It’s a wonderful weeknight way to celebrate fresh, local asparagus.

Because April. And asparagus.

Asparagus with Parmesan

Celebrate spring with this classic Italian dish

We know spring is here when locally grown asparagus starts popping up in our markets. So let’s bedeck ourselves with blooms and dig into a dish of Asparagus with Parmesan (aka Asparagi alla Parmigiana).

This simple, quick dish makes the perfect side or starter. You can even top it with a fried or poached egg for a light supper.

Now, don’t you just feel like hoppin’ down the bunny trail?

The Charlie Chaplin Cocktail

 Sip one of these while watching the Oscars

April brings both the Oscar awards and the birthday of film favorite Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin (born April 16, 1889). What better way to celebrate than with the Charlie Chaplin Cocktail?

It combines sloe gin, apricot brandy, and fresh lime juice in a sprightly mix that shouts spring. Show-stopping flavor, you might say.

Get the popcorn ready.