From Our Kitchen to Yours: Embracing the Flavours of Summer 2024
As the warm embrace of summer approaches, culinary enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the vibrant flavours and fresh ingredients that define the season’s cuisine.
With 2024 ushering in a wave of innovative culinary trends, this summer promises to be a celebration of light, refreshing dishes that highlight the essence of seasonal produce. From light pasta creations to zesty salsas and an array of bright, colorful fruits and vegetables, Foodbuy Canada’s Corporate Chef Wayne Nichols explores three top menu trends that are easy to execute, cost-effective, and will undoubtedly grace dining tables this summer.
Light Pasta Dishes
Gone are the heavy, creamy pasta dishes of winters past. In 2024, chefs are embracing the art of crafting light pasta creations that are both satisfying and refreshing. Think of the endless varieties of pasta offered by ItalPasta tossed simply with garden-fresh tomatoes, basil, and a just a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Or perhaps, vibrant vegetable noodles paired with a tangy lemon herb sauce. These dishes not only showcase the natural flavours of seasonal produce but also provide a guilt-free indulgence perfect for warm summer days.
Pro Tip: Due to soaring costs of olive oil, reduce the amount used by using other varieties like avocado oil to finish a dish or for high-heat cooking, grapeseed or canola oils.
Zesty Salsas
Salsas have long been a staple of summer dining, but in 2024, they’re taking center stage with bold new flavour combinations and creative twists. From classic tomato and mango salsas to inventive variations featuring grilled peaches or pineapple. Imagine pairing a fiery habanero salsa with grilled fish tacos or spooning a light cucumber salsa over grilled chicken. These zesty condiments add a burst of flavour and a touch of heat to any summer meal, making them a must-have on this year’s menu.
Pro Tip: To reduce prep-work saving on time and labour, use pre-sliced fruits and vegetables from Bamford’s.
Bright Produce
No summer menu would be complete without an abundance of bright, colorful produce stealing the spotlight. Chefs are finding creative ways to incorporate these vibrant ingredients into every course, from refreshing salads and chilled soups to flavourful entrees and decadent desserts. Whether it’s a cool watermelon salad with feta and mint or a grilled vegetable platter bursting with color, diners can expect a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Pro Tip: If your operation doesn’t have the capacity to accommodate required volumes of fresh produce, substitute frozen where you can in soups and sauces. Artic Gardens offers a large assortment of frozen vegetables to suit your needs.
The summer of 2024 promises to be a culinary journey filled with refreshing dishes that celebrate the abundance of seasonal produce. As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, let’s raise a glass to the joys of summer dining and the endless possibilities it brings to the table.” Chef Wayne Nichols
Please reach out to your Account Manager to learn more about our program to enhance your summer menu offerings.