Author: Jasmine Hanson

The sun-drenched Mediterranean region has legendary culinary influence, with a wide-ranging flavor palette and the health halo of high-quality fats, fresh produce, whole pulses, and grains. As culinary trends and consumer demand expand to encompass more global influences, Mediterranean cuisine is not defined by borders or ubiquitous food staples, but rather a broad blend of

December 2021 Lentils are increasingly prominent on Mediterranean fast-casual menus, as they are an approachable choice for both consumers looking for filling, plant-forward menu options and operators who need versatile ingredients that can soak up flavor and provide cross-utilization in just one SKU. The Mediterranean fast-casual chain Zoës Kitchen features lentils in several menu applications

Indian cuisine offers a rich map of flavor, texture, and culinary influences, from the spiced and fragrant curries of the north, to street food in urban centers, to the herbal coconut-milk based dishes of the south. A tried-and-true fit for lentils, Indian cuisine makes a strong showcase for plant-forward dishes with comforting, adventurous, and unique

For an ingredient that can increase the nutritional content of menu offerings across dayparts while making your operation more cost-effective, look no further than lentils. As a plant-forward, protein-rich substitute for ground meat, lentils are ideal in blended applications like burgers or tacos, as a substitute that can replace meat entirely in those same applications,

November 2021 As 2021 begins to wind down, we are found reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to what is on the horizon. It is also that time of year where many food companies and data houses come out with their trend predictions for the upcoming year. We at Lentils.org love geeking out

November 2021 The fast-casual restaurant segment is a booming one for the lentil industry. In addition to salad-centric chains, Mediterranean cuisine is a natural fit for lentils as operators are looking to add more plant-based proteins to menus. The Mediterranean fast casual restaurant chain CAVA provides a perfect example of how lentils can shine across

Functional foods are those that offer health benefits that extend beyond their basic nutritional value. As more consumers seek foods that promise health benefits like added energy or increased immunity, functional foods, like lentils, can help you satisfy customer demand while also delivering on taste and menu appeal. Satisfying Health Desires and Innovating on Trends

November 2021 Sweetgreen, one of the trendiest and fastest growing fast casual chains in the U.S., has a mission to build healthier communities by connecting people to real food, so it’s no surprise that lentils are a featured item on their menu. The Super Green Goddess Salad features lentils, chickpeas, roasted sweet potatoes, raw carrots,

With limited staff and resources, utilizing ingredients that require less labor while also providing menu versatility may seem like an impossible feat. There are some ingredients, like lentils, that can work double duty for you, making at least one thing easier in the kitchen. Below are three reasons why lentils can be your labor-saving solution.