12 Recipes for the Ultimate Spring Dinner Party

Cornmeal-Almond Cake with Strawberries and Mascarpone — Photo: Paul Costello

We thought it might never happen, but it’s finally starting to feel like spring. To celebrate the season, we're cooking bright, lively meals that we can share with friends over a bottle (or three) of rosé. We’ve rounded up the essential spring dinner party recipes that you should add to your repertoire, too.

01 of 12

Bruschetta with Mozzarella and Smashed Fresh Favas

Fresh lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil add a bright creaminess to puréed favas, best enjoyed on crispy baguette slices (with buffalo mozzarella, of course.)

Go to recipe

02 of 12

Spinach-and-Green-Pea Empanadas

Another excellent use of favas? Mauricio Couly’s mint-flecked empanadas, which are easy to make with store-bought wrappers. (You can use frozen lima beans here, too.)

Go to recipe

03 of 12

Ginger Shandies

There’s no better way to start an evening than with a few refreshing pitcher cocktails. This ginger shandy has just four ingredients—lemon, ginger beer, beer, and mint for garnish.

Go to recipe

04 of 12

Buttermilk-Dressed Spring Greens

Chef Eli Dahlin of Dame in Portland, Oregon, blends cottage cheese into this fantastic buttermilk dressing.

Go to recipe

05 of 12

Chilled Spring Pea Soup

Daniel Boulud’s velvety pea soup goes perfectly with a brisk Austrian Grüner Veltliner.

Go to recipe

06 of 12

Farro Salad with Spring Peas, Onions and Feta

This light, nutty grain salad is delicious at any temperature.

Go to recipe

07 of 12

Penne with Asparagus Sage and Peas

This simple and creamy pasta dish celebrates the long-awaited arrival asparagus, with sage adding a welcome earthiness.

Go to recipe

08 of 12

Farfalle with Spring Vegetables

For something lighter, try this bright, lemony pasta salad that’s packed with spring vegetables and fresh herbs. Make extra to have for lunch the next day.

Go to recipe

09 of 12