The Fresh Market of Greensboro, N.C., has named five food and beverage trends it predicts will be hot in the year ahead, with produce playing a role in each.
1. Latin American flavors: The vibrant and diverse cuisine of Latin America has captured the attention of food enthusiasts and chefs alike, The Fresh Market says. From the fiery spices of Mexico to the bold and tangy flavors of Brazil, Peru and Argentina, Latin American flavors offer a unique and exciting culinary experience.
For a taste of this trend, The Fresh Market suggests its house-made guacamole and empanadas.
For customers looking to create their own Latin American-inspired meal, The Fresh Market suggests making Moqueca, Caipirinha, and Grilled Salmon with Chimichurri.
2. Mocktails: Spirit-frees are made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, carbonated mixers and other unique infusions for a balance of texture, taste and aromatics. They contain little or no alcohol and are equally inspired by culinary and cocktail worlds, helping inspire healthy eating and lifestyle choices, The Fresh Market says.
For a taste of this trend, the grocer recommends MāKā Wheatgrass Superfood Beverage and Rowdy Mermaid Good Mood Soda.
For shoppers looking for mocktail receipes, The Fresh Market suggests mixing up its Cranberry Ginger Ale Mocktail or Belvoir Cream Fizz Mocktail.
3. Global soups and stews for the soul: There are few foods as warming and comforting as soup, says The Fresh Market. Cook a pot to share hearty and healing meals; hold a bowl and feel cared for. Soups are not only delicious and nutritious, but they’re also easy to modify based on your heat preference and culinary lifestyle.
The Fresh Market recommends ramen soup, Shrimp Pho, and Malaysian Curry Laska.
4. Functional beverages 2.0: Also a great nonalcoholic option, functional beverages are taking it up a notch with focus ingredients that make health delicious or elevate your mood, the grocer says.
5. Powerful pulses: Pulses begin as humble, dry seeds from inside the pods of legume plants. When cooked, they come alive to showcase the delicious cuisine of diverse cultures, says The Fresh Market, adding that pulses are low in fat and high in protein and fiber. Black beans, chickpeas, French green lentils, and red kidney beans are some examples.
