International Cuisine: What’s the Difference Between Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Food?
From Our Kitchen
The Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions are close geographically, which has cultivated similarities in their cuisines over the centuries. Both diets heavily feature vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and nutritious fats from olive oils, nuts, and seeds, as well as less red meat than many other cultures. However, the two aren’t interchangeable — though they’re often confused with each other — and there are several differences that separate them. Countries commonly associated with Mediterranean cuisine most often include those that...
From Our Kitchen: Baby Bella Mushroom Burger
From Our Kitchen
If your family is interested in trying more plant-based meals, make this vegetarian entrée. It’s a great alternative to animal protein-based burgers while providing a good source of B vitamins, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. Baby Bella Mushroom Burger Servings: 4 burgers Ingredients: 8 ounces mushrooms 2 teaspoons vegetable oil ½ cup diced onions 2 peeled, minced fresh garlic cloves 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley ¼ teaspoon dried oregano 2 teaspoons salted butter 4 tablespoons rolled oats 4 tablespoons panko...
International Cuisine: India
From Our Kitchen
Dating back 5,000 years, India is an amalgamation of diverse cultural, religious, and culinary influences. You might be surprised to learn that many foods that seem to embody Indian cuisine — rich, tomato-based curries and the piping-hot potato and pea samosa stuffing — include ingredients that aren’t native to the country. Portuguese and Dutch colonization brought items such as tomatoes, potatoes, vinegar, and grilled bread to India. A reflection of the diverse nature of this Southeast Asian country...
Celebrating Caribbean American Heritage Month
From Our Kitchen
Caribbean American Heritage Month has been observed in June since 2006 to recognize and celebrate Caribbean Americans’ contributions to the United States and to raise awareness about their culture, history, and heritage. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 American Community Survey, there are about 8.5 million people in the country who were either born in the Caribbean or reported Caribbean ancestry. Caribbean cuisine is a fusion of African, Creole, European, Latin American, Middle Eastern, and Asian...
Five Rules for Picking Summer Produce
Nutrition, Sustainability, From Our Kitchen, Gardens
Have you ever bought produce only to find it’s too ripe or not ripe enough? It can be challenging to choose perfect produce every time. We’ve put together five simple rules to guide your purchases this summer: Trust your sense of smell. The scent of some produce can help determine whether it’s ripe. Fruit should smell fragrant, particularly melons, berries, and stone fruits like plums, peaches, and nectarines. Handle with care. Ripe fruits like plums should yield to gentle pressure...
From Our Kitchen: VIETNAMESE POK POK WINGS
From Our Kitchen
Enjoy this Vietnamese-inspired street food recipe, whether you’re hosting a game day party or looking for a delicious snack! Vietnamese Pok Pok Wings Servings: 6 Ingredients: 4 cloves fresh peeled garlic 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro 1 tablespoon fresh mint ¼ cup vegetable oil 1 ½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken wings Vegetable oil (if needed for frying) ¼ cup fish sauce ¼ cup granulated sugar Preparation: Thinly slice the garlic cloves. Wash and pick the cilantro and mint...
Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Articles, From Our Kitchen
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which celebrates the rich cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders throughout the history of the United States. As a dining services provider, our celebration revolves around food, so it’s only natural to highlight this month through that lens. Let’s take a look at some of today’s notable Asian American and Pacific Islander chefs and their culinary contributions and achievements. Filipino American chef Cristeta Comerford was...
Celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month
From Our Kitchen
According to a 2020 Pew Research Center survey, there are about 7.5 million Jewish Americans in the country. Jewish American Heritage Month provides an opportunity to recognize the significant impact they’ve had on U.S. history, culture, and traditions. At the heart of Jewish American heritage is a deep connection to food, which can serve as a means of storytelling and fostering community. Jewish American cuisine continues to evolve, embracing innovation while honoring tradition. From trendy kosher restaurants reimagining...
About Us
At SAGE Dining Services®, our unparalleled expertise in nutrition, sustainability, and culinary trends produces exceptional dining experiences that delight the senses, inspire minds, and foster community.
