There is a Certain Celebration

In the north country it is spring and there is a certain celebration... --Mary Oliver







Forget the calendar. While it's been "Spring" for almost a month now, this week has treated Virginia to the kind of sunny, warm weather and lingering evening light that makes me confident we're irreversibly on track towards Summer.

Springtime hosts its own celebration. Bedecked in flowery finery, bathed in gorgeous, glowing lights, the earth beckons us to leave our desks, our stovetops, and our television sets to breathe it all in. Then out come the delicious seasonal treats -- fresh greens, herbs, beets, radishes, strawberries -- our hors d'oeuvres for the party.

In honor of Spring and all the outdoor activities on offer, including Garden Week, soccer games, and the first Fridays after Five, here are a few of my personal favorite portable picnic recipes. Even if they're destined for a tupperware lunch at your desk as you gaze wistfully out at dogwood blossoms, they're a delicious way to partake of Springtime's feast!

Please take the time to post any of your favorite springtime recipes (or activities) to the comments, especially those that fit well into a picnic basket!

Radish and Avocado Salad (One-Click Relay recipe)*

Spinach with Peas and Scallions (One-Click Relay recipe)*

White Bean Burgers (with parsley, carrots, and spring herbs)

Honey Balsamic Bean Salad (delicious with Down Branch’s delicate romaine)

Grilled Cheese and Fried Egg Sandwiches (perfect for fresh free-range eggs!)

Coconut Macaroons (look great for a portable picnic treat)

*You may have noticed on our Facebook page that Relay has just launched one-click shopping recipes in concert with Bella Eats, a beautiful cooking and photography blog by Charlottesville's own Andrea Hubbell. If you check out the new recipes tab at Relay, you can find Andrea's gorgeous recipes linked up to Relay's best local ingredients!