Mediterranean Matters – “Trend Bulletin”
For Immediate Release
Mediterranean Matters – “Trend Bulletin”
Mediterranean dishes top the list of 'new ethnic' cuisines, and offer a dynamic area for growth. Capitalize on the trend with Mediterranean-inspired appetizers, entrees and side dishes from Mediterranean Matters, part of the FREE series of Trend Bulletins from Basic American Foods.
With a diverse flavor profile, the Mediterranean spans the southern European coastline, the Middle East and North Africa. Most ingredients for Mediterranean menu items are readily available in the pantry, including:
• Olives
• Onions
• Cheese
• Potatoes
• Seasonal fruits
• Legumes
• Yogurt
• Fish
• Tomatoes
Mediterranean dishes provide new opportunities to offer interesting, flavorful choices, and complement many heart-healthy or calorie/carb/dietary requirements. Merchandise the Mediterranean trend as a permanent part of the menu, or as a specialty that becomes a popular daily item.
For evocative and distinctive Mediterranean dishes, try these spices:
• Saffron
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Garlic
• Basil
• Oregano
• Paprika
• Ginger
Bring the regional flavors of Southern France to the breakfast table with Provencal Hashbrowns with Grilled Vegetables, using Golden Grill® Hashbrowns. This easy-prep recipe features on-hand ingredients such as onion, bell peppers and tomatoes, with a paprika spice. Potato Gratin Italia captures Mediterranean flavors in an exotic side dish that pairs Classic Casserole® Au Gratin Potatoes with creamy Gorgonzola cheese, pine nuts, thyme, cumin and paprika. For a vegetarian crowd-pleaser, try Basil Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables. Nature's Own® Premium Mashed Potatoes with a hint of basil accompany a medley of fresh, roasted vegetables.
Mediterranean Matters recipes also include unique presentation ideas. An everyday favorite takes on a new twist with Potato Crusted Mediterranean Meatloaf, featuring Potato Pearls EXCEL®. Mashed potatoes are the perfect topping for a meat loaf that features ground beef and ground lamb with onion, garlic, dried herbs, vegetable broth, green onions and breadcrumbs.
For maximum versatility, Mediterranean Matters features ideas to enhance or simplify each recipe.
All recipes feature Basic American Foods' family of convenient, great-tasting products, including: Classic Casserole® Au Gratin Potatoes; Nature's Own® Premium Mashed Potatoes; Golden Grill® Hashbrown Potatoes; and Potato Pearls EXCEL®.
For a free copy of Mediterranean Matters (Bulletin #13 in the 'Ideas You Can Build On™' series) and for past issues - or for ideas to build your menu with Basic American Foods products, call 1-800-722-2084, or visit Ideas You Can Build On™ at www.baf.com.
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Editorial contacts:
Betsy Krugliak
(510) 444-0412
betsy@thepacificgroup.com
Basil Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables
