4 Exciting Sides that Students are Loving on their Cafeteria Menus

Learn why students are loving these trend-forward, global menu items!

Sweet Plantain

Sweet plantains have proven to be a delicious and popular option on school cafeteria menus. Picked at the peak of ripeness, they offer a naturally sweet flavor that kids love. They can be served as a side dish or incorporated into main courses, adding a touch of tropical flair to any meal.

Not only are sweet plantains tasty, but they also provide several health benefits. They are a good source of dietary fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion. Sweet plantains are also rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium.

In addition to their great taste and nutritional value, sweet plantains are versatile in their menu applications, serving as excellent options for both sweet and savory meals. They are also versatile in terms of preparation – whether baked or microwaved, students are sure to love their naturally sweet, appealing flavor.

Yuca

Yuca, also known as cassava, is another exciting addition to school menus. This starchy root vegetable is a staple in many cuisines around the world – from Latin to African to Asian – and is quickly gaining popularity in school cafeterias.

Yuca is a great alternative to traditional potato dishes, offering a unique flavor and texture. Students enjoy the versatility of the root vegetable and the different ways it can be prepared.

Aside from its delicious taste, yuca is also a nutritious choice. It is a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber, providing sustained energy for students throughout the day, while also providing vitamin C and minerals like calcium and iron.

Introducing yuca to school menus not only adds variety but also exposes students to different cultures and cuisines. It encourages them to explore new flavors and expand their culinary horizons.

Tri-Color Sweet Potato

Looking to add a visually aesthetic appeal to your students’ menus? Look no further than tri-color sweet potatoes! These are a vibrant and nutritious addition to school cafeteria menus, and come in shades of orange, purple, and white, adding a pop of color and flavor to any meal.

In terms of nutrition, sweet potatoes are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of vitamin A, and are also high in dietary fiber and antioxidants, promoting overall health and well-being.

By offering tri-color sweet potatoes on school menus, students are encouraged to make healthier choices and explore different flavors. It’s an A+ for both taste and nutrition.

Golden Sweet Potato

For a milder look and taste, school food service operators may want to consider golden sweet potatoes (boniato). These vibrant tubers have a rich golden color and a slightly sweeter taste compared to regular sweet potatoes but are less sweet than an orange sweet potato.

Nutrition-wise, golden sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. They provide essential nutrients that support growth and development in students.

By featuring golden sweet potatoes on school menus, students have the opportunity to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious food that supports their overall well-being. It’s a tasty, globally-forward addition that both kids and parents can appreciate!

Conclusion

These four exciting foods – sweet plantain, yuca (cassava), tri-color sweet potato, and golden sweet potato – are gaining popularity among students on school menus. Their unique flavors, vibrant colors and nutritional benefits make them a great choice for school cafeterias.

By incorporating these trend-forward, global menu items, school food service operators and professionals can not only meet students’ taste preferences but also provide them with nutritious options. These foods offer a range of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, supporting students’ overall health and well-being.

Ready to try MIC Food®? Contact our sales team and request samples of our low-sodium, trend-forward school items today. Or Ask Our Chef about how you can incorporate plantains, yuca and tri-color and golden sweet potato into your K-12 school menu!

Traditionally, sweet potato, plantains and yuca must be peeled, sliced, and cooked prior to consuming. Here at MIC Food® we are helping school district chefs rethink their menus and increase appeal among students of all backgrounds. We provide variety of tropical fruits and vegetables that come peeled and cut, ready-to-heat and serve, saving you hours of prep time so you can focus on what matters the most: Making Every Meal Memorable.