Reviewed by: Callie Morrison
This Alabama chef created 5 delightful spring dishes you need to try now
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Spring in Alabama means an abundance of fresh fruits and veggies, plus countless opportunities to make delicious and healthy food choices.
We spoke with Chef Rob Varner, one of Chews Wisely Alabama‘s talented recipe creators, about his top five spring dishes. Check it out.
Meet Chef Rob Varner
Back in June of 2020, Chef Rob Varner and his wife started Sheepshead Eats as a private chef company. In June of this year, they’ll be celebrating the company’s fourth birthday.
Chef Rob and Chews Wisely Alabama first connected at a live cooking demo in Mobile. He loves helping them create recipes and cooking videos that empower Alabamians to make healthier choices, bite by bite.
Put a little spring on your table + in your step
Chef Rob waxed lyrical as he rattled off seasonally available ingredients you can use to create delicious flavors, including asparagus, artichokes, fava beans, strawberries, peas, watercress and more.
You’ll find many of them starring in these spring-themed dishes. Don’t get mad at us if you find you’ve got more energy after filling your plate with all these fresh fruits and veggies.
1. Gluten-free rotisserie scallion chicken cakes with fresh corn relish
According to Chef Rob, not only are these scallion rotisserie chicken cakes a healthy option, but they’re also easy to make.
Just pick up a rotisserie chicken and a few other ingredients and you’re ready to go.
“You make these cakes with garlic, Dijon, scallions and onion. The relish is light, with corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, balsamic vinegar and a little bit of honey. The dish is nice and fresh and packed with spring flavors.
Chef Rob Varner, Sheepshead Eats
2. Chilled “mojito” fruit salad
Whether you’re a fan of mojitos or have never heard of them, you’re sure to love this fruit salad inspired by the Cuban cocktail.
“For this nice little fruit salad, you can use whatever fresh spring fruits you want, then pull it together with mint, lime juice and a sugar substitute. It’s bright and fresh.”
Chef Rob Varner, Sheepshead Eats
3. Blackened chicken wontons with Remoulade sauce
If you’re throwing a party or bringing people together for a simple gathering, these blackened chicken wontons with Remoulade sauce are for you.
Each bite-sized dumpling packs a delicious and nutritious protein punch.
The Remoulade combines healthier versions of mayo, ketchup, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, creole seasoning, paprika and Worcestershire sauce for an unforgettable flavor.
Once that’s drizzled over the wontons, each bite is *chef’s kiss.*
4. Spring green shakshuka
Not only is shakshuka fun to say—it also tastes wonderful.
This dish, which is popular in the Middle East and North Africa, normally features eggs cooked in a tomato base.
This spring green shakshuka offers a fresh take on a familiar favorite. It’s bursting with spring veggies and legumes, including asparagus, lima beans, green peas and spinach.
What a unique way to start your day off on the right foot.
5. Sunflower-ginger slaw
As the days heat up, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a crispy coleslaw. This sunflower-ginger slaw packs an invigorating crunch that you’re going to want to try.
Peanut butter, ginger, sesame oil, hot sauce, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, lime and sunflower seeds will make your taste buds tingle in the best possible way.
Want more healthy + delicious recipes? Check out Chews Wisely Alabama today.
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