As the seasons change and the days get longer, and as the selection of fresh spring produce becomes more bountiful, it’s a perfect time to gather outdoors for a delicious meal.
Spring is a season of celebratory holidays and milestone markers for many. There is Easter, Passover, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, graduations, and weddings — there’s no shortage of opportunities to come together! And what better way to bring your loved ones together than for a springtime brunch? Yes, brunch! That wonderful mealtime perfectly placed between breakfast and lunch can be filled with a variety of both sweet and savory flavors, and of course, our favorite — walnuts!
If you’re gearing up to start planning your seasonal entertaining and want to showcase fresh seasonal flavors with fun ingredients (and beautiful table settings, too), then look no further. We’ve gathered delicious recipes and a few tablescape tips to get your creative juices flowing and your mouth watering.
Ready? Let’s dig in!
Delectable Ideas for the Perfect Springtime Brunch
Try a Tart: Asparagus, Goat Cheese and Walnut Tart
No brunch is complete without a savory tart, quiche or frittata. One way to brighten up your table with the colors of spring is with beautiful (and tasty) seasonal produce. This recipe for Asparagus, Goat Cheese and Walnut Tart is a true springtime beauty, beautifully pairing asparagus, creamy goat cheese, parmesan cheese and fresh lemon zest on a flaky golden crust. Top it off with fresh thyme and chopped walnuts for the perfect amount of crunch.
Serve alongside bacon or sausage, cottage potatoes and a beautiful Spinach, Walnut and Strawberry Salad for an extra pop of color and freshness.
Tablescape tip: To add a little bit of whimsy to your table, consider mixing and matching your dishes. Then add different textures with your placemats and napkins.
The Ultimate Springtime Dessert: Carrot Cake
This delicious, 5-star Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to be a hit at your next spring celebration, whether it’s for Easter, Mother’s Day, graduation or just because. This absolutely delectable three-layered concoction is simple to make and comes together in just an hour. In this recipe, carrots naturally burst with flavor along with a touch of cinnamon, which are balanced nicely with the flavor and crunch of walnuts and smooth, melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese frosting. Moist and delicious, this cake has a delightfully sweet, nutty flavor. Oh, and we must mention carrot cake in all its many forms. If you’re looking to try a fun twist on this classic, try these Carrot Walnut Cupcakes or these Walnut Carrot Cake Cookies.
Tablescape tip: Accessorize with fresh flowers. Whether you choose little individual vases with a single stem or opt for a large bouquet to place in the center of your table, nothing says springtime like flowers.
Walnut Horchata Martini
And of course, if your get-together is of an age-appropriate crowd, you definitely can’t go wrong with Walnut Horchata Martinis. This delicious play on a classic horchata features walnut milk shaken with cinnamon — with vodka and coffee liqueur stirred in, which, in our opinion, pairs just perfectly with dessert! Serve it on the rocks with a cinnamon stick and enjoy!
Tablescape tip: While fresh flowers are always a top choice for decorating your table, try mixing it up a little by filling a vase with fresh citrus fruits, painted eggs, or glass beads.
Springtime brunch is the perfect setting for celebrations and get-togethers because it allows you to combine delicious food and beautifully decorated spaces. Whether you favor sweet or savory, incorporating the wonderfully versatile flavors of walnuts into your meals is the perfect way to add fun and fancy to your next gathering.
