Summer food trends are all about bold, vibrant flavors, think spices and herb infused drinks and dishes that refresh and excite. In this seasonal spotlight, plant-forward options like dried beans and lentils are taking center stage. From creamy dips to crispy waffles and vegan patties, these high-protein plant-based ingredients bring both taste and nutritional convenience. They also shine in refreshing salad mixes that appeal to a broad audience, especially health-conscious consumers.
This July presents a prime opportunity to refresh your menu, introduce plant-based protein products, and align with evolving consumer preferences. While often associated with winter stews or side dishes, beans and lentils are incredibly adaptable and perfectly suited to summer offerings. Purchasing them in bulk not only ensures cost efficiency but also gives your business the boost to meet seasonal demand. As consumers seek high protein and plant-based dishes, beans and lentils offer an unbeatable combination of versatility, value, and nourishment, making them a smart choice for any summer lineup.
Summer-Inspired Bean & Lentil Recipes Ideas For Your Menu:
Building on their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and nutritional prowess, let's explore how beans and lentils can elevate specific sections of your summer menu.
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Appetizers & Small Plates: Kick off the dining experience with exciting, shareable options.
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Zesty Bean & Corn Salsa: A vibrant mix of black beans, sweet corn, red onion, cilantro, and lime, perfect with crispy lentil or tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled fish tacos.
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Spicy Red Lentil Dips: A creamy, subtly spiced dip made with red lentils, roasted red peppers, and a hint of spices, ideal for a colorful vegetable platter.
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Crispy Chickpea & Herb Fritters: Lightly spiced ,vegan chickpea patties pan-fried until golden, served with a cooling herb-yogurt dip or any vegan dip.
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Refreshing Salad Mixes & Bowls: Capitalize on the demand for fresh and healthy.
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Kidney Bean Salad: Red Kidney beans tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, fresh cilantro, and a light lemon vinaigrette. Add grilled feta for an extra touch.
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Quinoa & Chickpea Salad Bowl: A hearty and colorful bowl featuring white quinoa, seasoned whole chickpeas, avocado, garlic salt, corn, and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing.
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Pigeon Pea Salad: A truly unique and refreshing salad made with crumbled feta or vegan alternative, corn, fresh mint, and chilled pigeon peas dressed with a balsamic glaze and crunchy toppers..
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Creative Plant-Based Burger: Showcase their ability to anchor a dish.
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Kidney Bean Tacos: A flavorful and filling vegan taco option, topped with jalapeno, avocado, and pickled onions, corn and red chili flakes..
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Vegan Lentil Meatloaf: A savory, satisfying plant-based twist on traditional meatloaf, made with black and brown lentils, flaxseed meal as a natural binder, and a flavorful blend of spices. Perfectly paired with roasted seasonal veggies for a wholesome, balanced meal.
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Bean and Lentil Soup Mix: A surprisingly refreshing and elegant option for any plant-based menu. Made with dried red lentils or a blend of beans and lentils, combined with seasonal vegetables, Indian garam masala, and a touch of garnish, this soup delivers rich flavor and nourishment. Perfect for adding comfort and sophistication to any summer menu.
Beans and lentils bring sophistication to any menu. They open up endless possibilities for restaurant specials, healthy vegan menus, and vegetarian offerings. Thanks to their ability to pair effortlessly with herbs, spices, and garnishes, they’re ideal for creating highly customizable dishes across a variety of cuisines. From nourishing soup mixes and salads to savory mains and even sweet breakfast favorites using whole of finely milled lentil flours like gluten-free waffles and pancakes, these versatile legumes adapt beautifully to seasonal flavors and evolving culinary trends.
This summer, bulk-buying beans and lentils is a smart move, providing cost-effective, nutrient-dense, and crowd-pleasing ingredients that add value to your business offerings. These cater to growing demand for plant-based food and their long shelf life and broad culinary appeal make them essential staples in any inventory.
