COLORADO WEDDING PLANNER SERIES - 2020 Food Trends with Relish Catering and Events

Things are uncertain right now, but one thing that we are seeing is people are embracing their kitchen while we are all spending more time at home.  And with this reintroduction to cooking at home, perhaps you're like us and trying some new flavors and recipes. 

What food trends can we expect to see at Colorado weddings and events in 2020? Read on as we catch up with our friends at Relish Catering and Events about trends they predict to be popular in the year ahead! 

1. Sugar shift

​Due to the conscious eating and health trends that have sparked among consumers the past few years, many companies are making a change to the amount of sugar being added to their products. Across the board, we’ve seen companies drastically reduce the amount of sugar they add to their goods, while the number of sweeteners and sugar alternatives on the market has increased. In 2020, make space in your pantry for up-and-coming products like date syrups as well as pomegranate and coconut reductions as a way to keep your sweet tooth satisfied. We love these new products because you can also use them to add unique flavors into your recipes. 
Relish Tip: Try using natural sugars to add some sweetness to your dishes on your wedding menu. Try using natural sugars from fruits to add some sweetness to your dishes.

​2. Ginger

With the increased demand for herbal medicinal products, the global ginger market is expected to continue growing in the next decade. Consumers are becoming more aware of the natural health benefits of this product which places it in high demand. Because of its anti-inflammatory capabilities, ginger is used for at-home remedies to help treat various infections such as the common cold, cough and ulcers. 
Relish Tip: Try mixing 2 tablespoons of fresh ginger with 1 small garlic clove, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of dijon mustard, ¼ cup of rice vinegar and ⅓ cup of olive oil to create an incredible ginger-based salad dressing. Not only will it spice up the flavor, it will also provide the health benefits.

3. Dairy Alternatives

When it comes to milk, there will be no shortage of alternatives in the new decade. As you walk along the supermarket aisle, you’ll find even more brands of milk made from almond, hazelnut, peanut, cashew coconut, quinoa, pea, you name it! Deciding which alternative to go with is a decision that will ultimately come down to the consumer who may consider factors like environmental impact, price and production. Your wedding guests 
Relish Tip: Trying to be more environmentally conscious this year? Next time you’re using milk for baking, try replacing it with one of the plant-based milk alternative products for a change. As an example, almond milk can be used in cakes, breads, muffins, and other baked goods. The substitution may affect the baking process so just keep in mind it may have to be removed a few minutes earlier than the recipe indicates.

4. Cauliflower

Unlike other superfood trends that often peaks and then dies down, the cauliflower craze has had a lasting presence and will continue to stay in 2020. Due to its versatility, cauliflower is a healthy food option that can be adapted into many of our traditional “feel-good” dishes like pizza, gnocchi and rice. Cauliflower serves as the perfect blank canvas in the kitchen since it’ll simply soak up any flavors you’re cooking with. 
Relish tip: Attempt making cauliflower pizza.  Using a food processor, pulse 1 cauliflower head until it is very thin. Then, mix the cauliflower with ½ cup of mozzarella, ¼ cup of parmesan, oregano, salt, garlic to taste and two eggs. This pizza base can be saved for later in the freezer or baked in the oven for 20 mins to enjoy. If your sweet tooth is craving it, cauliflower can also be used to make brownies. You’ll be surprised by the rich taste!

4. Flexitarian Bends

If saying goodbye to your grandma’s famous meatballs was never an option, then flexitarianism may be right for you. This movement is empowering consumers to continue seeking knowledge and alternatives to meat-based products while still leaving some wiggle room for the meaty indulgence. We are coming to a point where it’s not only vegan or vegetarian consumers who are interested in plant-based products. Flexitarianism allows individuals to make their choice to cut down on the amount of meat they are consuming while learning about the nutritional benefits of a plant-based diet. 
Relish tip: When coordinating with your caterer, make sure to mention any dietary restrictions or preferences that you or your guests may have. We can design menus to suit gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, flexitarian needs and more!