May is National Strawberry Month, and, at the height of the season, there is no better time to observe the California Strawberry Commission (CSC) recommendation to “just add California strawberries” to the menu. Strawberries are versatile and can be found across the menu–from appetizers to desserts to beverages–in all dayparts and restaurant categories from QSRs to fine dining.
Restaurant SmartBrief reports approximately 50% of chefs indicated their primary culinary inspiration is browsing menus at other restaurants.1 As inspiration comes in many forms, it should be no surprise that strawberries please and inspire as the nation’s favorite fruit, and are enjoyed by 96% of Americans.
Versatile, sweet and succulent California strawberries add color, flavor, texture and a healthy halo to any dish. And, with more than 52% of Americans consuming strawberries with greater frequency today than in 2010, operators can “just add California strawberries” to their favorite dish to meet a steady customer demand. For National Strawberry Month, the CSC suggests jumping into spring with Chinois Strawberry and Goat Cheese Salad. Fresh California strawberries paired with pine nuts and goat cheese brighten a simple spring mix salad. Won ton strips and a balsamic vinaigrette provide the finishing touches.