As the warmth of summer greets us with longer days and vibrant sunsets, our palates eagerly anticipate the flavors that come alive during this much-loved season. With each year bringing new culinary trends and innovative approaches to classic summer fare, it’s essential for food lovers to stay updated on what to expect at food festivals, gatherings, and even in their kitchens.
Thus, we invite you to embark on a gastronomic journey through the Summer Food Trends of 2021, where we’ll uncover the latest and greatest dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and inspire your home cooking. So, whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or a curious novice, sit back, relax, and let’s explore this season’s deliciously bold concoctions that are sure to make your summer unforgettable.
Top Summer Food Trends
1. Plant-based burgers and hot dogs
With more people looking towards vegan and vegetarian diets, plant-based burgers and hot dogs have become increasingly popular. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods offer grilling options that taste very close to the real thing.
2. Edible flowers
As a way of elevating dishes and making them more visually appealing, many chefs are using edible flowers in their recipes. This trend can be seen in various summer dishes, such as salads, cocktails, desserts, and ice creams.
3. Healthier ice creams alternatives
Consumers are looking for healthier options, even when it comes to ice cream. Brands like Halo Top and Yasso offer low-calorie, high-protein alternatives with creative flavors.
4. Poke bowls
This Hawaiian dish has become popular thanks to its color and flavor explosion. Customizable poke bowls allow customers to mix raw fish, rice, vegetables and various sauces into a refreshing and satisfying meal.
5. Rolled ice cream
Rolled ice cream, a Thai-style treat, is an Instagram-friendly food trend. It involves pouring liquid ice cream onto a cold plate, chopping and mixing ingredients, and scraping the frozen ice cream into rolls to be served in a vibrant, eye-catching way.
6. Infused water
A healthier alternative to sugary soft drinks, infused water is regular water mixed with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. It’s a trendy choice for people trying to stay hydrated while consuming fewer calories.
7. Ancient grains
Health-conscious consumers are discovering the nutritional benefits of ancient grains such as quinoa, amaranth, and farro. Expect to find these grains in summer salads, porridges, and stir-fries.
8. Fermented foods
The ongoing interest in gut health has led to a rise in the popularity of fermented foods. Items like kombucha, kimchi, and kefir have become regular additions to many summer menus.
9. Cauliflower
As a versatile and low-carb alternative to starchy side dishes, cauliflower can now be found on the menu in the form of cauliflower rice, pizza crust, and even gnocchi.
10. Food bowls
Grain bowls, salad bowls, or smoothie bowls – all provide a nourishing, visually appealing way to enjoy various ingredients in a single dish.
11. Sustainable and local ingredients
As climate concerns gain traction, many people are choosing to support local, seasonal ingredients and environmentally sustainable food sources.
12. CBD-infused food and drinks
CBD, a non-psychoactive compound from the cannabis plant, has become ubiquitous in various cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s commonly added to items like coffee, cocktails, and even ice cream with the claim that it promotes relaxation and may help with anxiety and pain.
13. Charcoal-infused food and beverages
Charcoal has become a trendy ingredient, particularly in drinks like lemonades, lattes, and smoothies. It’s known for its detoxifying properties and is often used as a natural food coloring.
14. Ugly fruit and vegetables
As the conversation around food waste grows, some chefs and consumers are embracing imperfect produce. This might lead to a rise in dishes featuring misshapen or blemished fruits and vegetables, which are still delicious and nutritious.
Implications
Summer food trends are increasingly reflecting consumer preferences for healthier, sustainable and visually appealing options. The rise in plant-based burgers and hot dogs demonstrates a shift towards environmentally-friendly meat alternatives, while edible flowers and rolled ice cream cater to both the palate and aesthetic appeal. Healthier ice cream alternatives, poke bowls, infused water, ancient grains, fermented foods, and cauliflower-based dishes emphasize the focus on well-being and nutrition.
Food bowls provide a versatile and nourishing way to enjoy diverse ingredients, supporting local and sustainable food practices. The popularity of CBD-infused food and drinks signals a growing openness to alternative wellness solutions, while charcoal-infused food and beverages introduce new elements of detoxification. Finally, embracing ugly fruits and vegetables highlights a move towards reducing food waste and championing imperfection. These food trends reflect the evolving tastes and values of the modern consumer, promoting a more health-conscious, environmentally-friendly, and visually appealing dining experience.
Conclusion
As we bid farewell to another sun-drenched and culinary-inspired summer, it cannot be denied that the season’s food trends have left their mark on our palates and plates alike. From the rise of al fresco dining and plant-based menus to the exotic flavors of global cuisine and the embrace of sustainable, local ingredients, we have plenty to be grateful for. As we venture into the cooler months, let us not forget the creativity, passion, and innovation that characterized this year’s summer food scene, and may we continue to elevate our culinary experiences by incorporating some of these unforgettable trends in the seasons to come.
