Spring Fling

At Philadelphia’s celebrated Horizons restaurant, co-owned by husband-and-wife duo executive chef Rich Landau and pastry chef Kate Jacoby, the bill of fare changes with the seasons. “In springtime, we change the menu almost weekly because looking for new vegetables is so inspiring,” says Landau.

Yet, while Landau acknowledges that he “can get inspired by vegetables all day long,” when it comes to creating sensational spring recipes, the season’s best produce isn’t his only muse. “There’s a mood for the season that has to fit with the produce. It’s about how you feel, where you want to be, and what you want that time of year,” he says.

“In springtime I’m thinking of the French countryside, of outdoor cafés with little tables where you can sit in the sun and have a great lunch salad that has a hot element,” says Landau. This scene set the stage for Horizons’s Frisée Salad with Creamy Truffle Vinaigrette. The warmer weather also motivates Landau to get outside and fire up the grill, prompting the elegant Grilled Portobello Tacos with Salsa Verde.

This spring, no matter how far you are from Philadelphia (or the French countryside), these earthy delights will help you broaden your culinary horizons while honoring the season.

Israeli Couscous with Saffron, Olives, and Spring Vegetables

Frisée Salad with Creamy Truffle Vinaigrette

Oyster Mushrooms Rockefeller

Grilled Portobello Tacos with Salsa Verde

Chunky Artichoke and Chickpea Salad

Spice-roasted Tofu Fillets with Jade Pesto (pictured)