As we step into 2024, top predictions for food trends are buzzing. From ingredients that bring the heat to plant-based proteins, these trends are focused on bold flavors, sustainable alternatives, and nourishing twists.
In the new year, adding heat to your meals goes beyond just adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. "Complex Heat" is all about layering different flavors with a spicy element to create something special. Whether it be smoky chipotle marinades, aromatic ginger sauces, or homemade harissa paste–2024 will bring ingredients and dishes that are not only spicy but richly flavorful.
Another perfect example? Natural Delights Medjool Date Strips with Tajín. The natural sweetness found in Medjool dates paired with the tangy kick of Tajín creates the perfect balance. Try adding them over chocolate bark or popcorn with Tajín sprinkled on top for even more complex heat.
Spicy Cheese Stuffed Medjool Dates
Thinking about adding more plant-based options to your diet this year? Legumes are stepping into the spotlight. Chickpeas, lentils, beans, and peanuts are all part of the legume family and are truly nutrition powerhouses. Not only are they filled with nutrients like protein, fiber, iron, potassium, and magnesium–they're also super versatile and add great texture to meals.
Moroccan Chickpea and Date Tagine
Grilled Chicken Bowl with Black Beans
Pizza, mac and cheese, pancakes, pie… we all love comfort food, right? This year, it's all about enjoying those classic, cozy dishes but with nourishing swaps or ingredients added into the mix. This allows those indulgent foods to be satisfying while also good for you.
For example, we may see more cauliflower or chickpea crust pizzas, veggie noodles mixed in with regular spaghetti, or whole grains like quinoa, oats, or sorghum being blended into flours and used as a hearty base in baked goods.
You can also hop on the trend by using Medjool dates to sweeten these classics without added sugar. You blend dates into syrups, baked goods, or energy bites in place of traditional sugar. Dates offer a caramel-like flavor while also providing beneficial fiber and potassium.
Sausage Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese
Pizza with Caramelized Onions and Dates
Whether you're spicing things up with complex heat, exploring plant-based proteins with legumes, or enjoying better-for-you versions of your favorite comfort foods, there's a lot to look forward to this year!
Mackenzie Burgess is an RDN and recipe developer at Cheerful Choices. Mackenzie focuses on customizable recipes with ingredients "of your choice." She's passionate about improving peoples’ kitchen confidence through easy meals, kitchen hacks, and her virtual Coaching + Cooking program.
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