Repeat after us: “Just because food could be dyed green doesn’t mean it should be.” And while we’ll gladly take a slice of a bright green cake once a year, we can’t help but feel that St. Paddy’s Day is the perfect reason to celebrate all those delicious dishes that are already green. This list is a mere smattering of our faves.

Green Smoothie Bowl (above)

Because we all know that holiday celebrations didn’t really happen unless you Instagram them — and this bright green breakfast bowl is totally ready for its close-up.

Spinach Pancakes with Corned Beef Hash

A savory take on classic brunch comfort food, these pancakes actually have a creamy, custard-like texture. And corned beef hash is the perfect holiday-appropriate swap for bacon.

Angel Hair Pasta with Pesto

Tyler Florence proves that homemade pesto requires little more effort than tossing a few ingredients in the blender.

Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan

Melissa d’Arabian’s Parm-sprinkled broccoli could get even the pickiest kids to dig in. Coax them into trying by it taking advantage of the veggie’s green hue and calling the dish “a special treat for St. Patrick’s Day.”

Cupcakes with Avocado Buttercream

Yup, cheery green cupcakes are possible without food dye, thanks to avocado (which pairs just as wonderfully with vanilla and orange as it does with cilantro and tomatoes — who knew?).

Fried Avocado Bites

But, of course, if you’re the type that considers avocado a savory food and nothing else, this indulgent snack is going to be your new go-to party app.

Kale and Apple Salad

Apple slivers and dates add a little sweetness to the standard lunch salad of the decade.

Lime Beer Cocktail

’Tis the season for raising a pint, after all — and adding a just a hint of green with lime slices is a bit more palatable than the Frankenstein-hued brews you might see in Irish bars this week.

Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Alex Guarnaschelli’s version of these subtly spicy peppers brings out their little-recognized floral notes and satisfying texture.