Trends in K-12 Foodservice
See what’s hot and what you need to stay on trend.
Bowl Concepts
"Bowls are a hit with students. Their interactive and fun nature appeals to kids of all ages. With a wide range of possible flavor combinations, bowls offer students a low-risk way to explore unfamiliar ingredients and foods.” — CHEF MICHAEL ZELLER Corporate Executive Chef, Simplot
Southwest Sweet Potato Bowl
How about a "breakfast for lunch" option? This rustic vegetarian bowl features roasted sweet potatoes, corn and black beans, peppers, onions, and cheesy scrambled eggs.
Beef Picadillo Fiesta Rice Bowl
The kids will think this tasty Mexican dish is slow-cooked comfort food; but your kitchen crew knows it comes together quickly. Everybody wins, yay!
Cauliflower Stir Fry Bowl
Jam-packed with veggies, chicken, and a delicious orange-chili sauce over cauliflower rice—this bowl has all the flavor of a traditional stir fry but without the excess fat and carbs.
Reimagined Classics
"Gen Z was raised by parents with diverse tastes in food: Ninety-percent are open to new foods and flavors in foods and beverages. Just make sure you prepare them in formats they already know.” — CHEF ROBERTO ROMAN Corporate Executive Chef, Simplot
Root Vegetable Pot Pie
These little cuties feature all the flavors of the much-loved original version without all the handwork and labor needed for dough prep. And seriously, who doesn't love an individual pot pie?
Loaded No Mac and Cheese
A new take on a popular casserole "oldie"—made with riced cauliflower and flame-roasted corn with just a touch of jalapeño kick. Don't be surprised when nobody misses the "mac".
Cheesy Corn and Buffalo Chicken Bake
The name pretty much says it all, and we say this might be a new favorite in your lunchtime rotation. These flavors work so well together and this dish is a snap to prepare.
Funky Fries
"Funky fry recipes add a dimension of excitement to school meals, making them more enjoyable for students. Be sure to offer a variety of options to accommodate the diverse dietary preferences and needs of your kids.” — CHEF MICHAEL ZELLER Corporate Executive Chef, Simplot
Lattice Pizza Fries
What could be better than pizza for lunch? Pizza Fries, of course! With all the Italian flavors that kids love plus crispy lattice fries—this vegetarian option will surely be a lunchtime winner.
Japanese BBQ Fries
Crispy, golden lattice fries topped with ground beef in a tangy ginger-soy sauce, tender edamame and finished with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Make lots, these are going to be popular!
Roasted Birria Fries
Load up a plate of crispy crinkle cut wedge fries with succulent lamb birria, melted cheese and top the dish off with a house-made avocado crema.