The Significance of Spring Greens at Passover

The Passover Seder is a time-honored tradition that begins with the ritual tasting of symbolic foods. While the Seder plate varies by family, fresh herbs and leafy greens are central to representing the arrival of spring. From celery and parsley to bitter herbs like horseradish, dandelion, and mustard greens, these ingredients serve as both a culinary delight and a historical reminder of the Hebrew exodus from Egypt.

Seasonal Vegetable Recipes

French Vegetable Soup with Chervil

This aromatic soup brings the flavors of France to your table. Use carrots, leeks, celery, and mushrooms—such as bunapi mushrooms for a nutty texture—diced into thin strips. Simmer the vegetables for 10 to 12 minutes until tender, finishing with a touch of fresh chervil.

Carrot Soup with Harissa and Coconut

Featured in Ronnie Fein’s Kosher Cooking for Beginners, this vegan soup balances heat with creaminess. Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots before simmering in stock. Puree the mixture, whisk in harissa and coconut milk, and garnish with toasted coconut before serving.

Ukrainian Cucumber Salad

Inspired by Annette Ogrodnik Corona’s The New Ukrainian Cookbook, this refreshing salad uses mini cucumbers, onion, fresh dill, and creamy whole milk yogurt. Simply toss the ingredients together and refrigerate for an hour before serving.

Kohlrabi Salad with Greens Pesto

This creative dish utilizes the entire kohlrabi plant. The bulbs are prepared both raw and sautéed, while the leaves are transformed into a flavorful pesto with walnuts and garlic. It is a nutritious way to incorporate the whole vegetable into your holiday meal.

Pear and Napa Cabbage Slaw

This savory-sweet salad combines crisp Asian pears with Napa cabbage and onions. A tangy dressing of yogurt, rice vinegar, and lemon juice ties the flavors together, making it a perfect, refreshing start to the Seder dinner.

Broccoli Salad with Spiced Pecans

Inspired by Kristyn Merkley, this salad offers a crunch with broccoli, dried cranberries, and spiced pecans. A light dressing of extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice replaces traditional mayonnaise, creating a bright, modern side dish.