3 Ways Our Chefs Are Incorporating Vegetables for Plant-Forward Power

Written in collaboration with Chef Jason Ison

Innovations and trends around vegetables have led to the leafy greens and bright colored foods no longer staying supporting side dishes and instead now they are the star of the meal. Vegetables are no longer an afterthought to meal planning, as the plant-based entrée has become immensely popular. They provide taste and texture for a delicious and satisfying meal. Using the same culinary techniques used for animal proteins has dramatically changed the way many view vegetables. The senior living industry is staying in line with this vegetable-forward approach to utilize more plant-based proteins.

Crafting Up Creativity with Vegetables

As a result, our chefs at Morrison Living are letting leafy greens take center stage while incorporating flavors and textures that rival traditional meals featuring meat. Crafting creativity with vegetables doesn’t have to be a pain. Check out our approach to plant-forward power for inspiration:

salad served with a variety of vegetables including arugula, blood orange balsamic dressing, acorn squash, Portobello mushrooms, and goat cheese
  1. Surprisingly good salads: While salads are a standard for vegetarian meals, toss what you think of a standard salad and get a glimpse of this creation. With an elevated presentation, any resident is excited to enjoy this plate. With an exciting twist of flavors from the blood orange balsamic dressing to the protein packed acorn squash, portobello mushrooms, and deviled egg, and topped with goat cheese for a kick of flavor, this salad is sure to please.
a sandwich with a grilled plantain, lettuce, and tomato served with fruit

2. Recreating the classics: You’ve had a BLT, but have you had a PLT? Swap the bacon for a grilled plantain tossed in Jamaican BBQ sauce and top with bibb lettuce and heirloom tomatoes. Finally, finish the sandwich on a homemade soft roll and viola – a plant-based take on a classic creation.

vegetable wellington made with squash, peppers, and onions served with rice and some sauce

3. Decadent delicacies: The beef wellington is a classic dish packed full of flavor with an artful presentation. Likewise, a vegetable wellington is equally as decadent without sacrificing any flavors. Easily swapping the beef with savory and sweet vegetables like squash, peppers, and onions ensures an equally delicious and indulgent dish.

Crafting delicious meals that rival well-known restaurants across the country are where our teams shine by staying ahead of culinary trends for dining experiences that delight and meet a wide variety of resident’s dietary needs.

Learn more about how we help you build community one meal at a time here: https://www.morrisonliving.com/culinary/