4 ways to send the year out on a high note (and get students excited for the post-break menu!)
December is just a few days away - can you believe it? Even if your menu is already set for the last few weeks before the holiday break, there’s still time to add extra sparkle and cheer to the cafeteria.
1) Make-your-own hot chocolate bar
Ladle warmed chocolate milk (or white milk + sugar-free hot cocoa mix) into hot cups, then let students choose from toppings like mini marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings. Small amounts of these extras can still fit into the weekly calorie and saturated fat limits. As long as students are served 8 fluid ounces, this can count as the milk component of a reimbursable meal.
BONUS IDEA! Stir in decaf or regular instant coffee crystals to make it mocha and appeal to older students! Try this recipe from Cincinnati Public Schools.
2) Serve winter-themed parfaits
If a hot chocolate bar might be too much, try a cocoa-inspired parfait instead. Here’s a great recipe from Bunker Hill CUSD 8 that credits for 2 M/MA.
3) Blend up winter flavors
No blender? No problem! General Mills’ recipe for Thin Mint Smoothies (scroll to page 11) are quick and easy. Note: You can use any brand of yogurt – we do not endorse specific companies.
4) Celebrate diversity
Offer traditional foods from other cultures that celebrate holidays in December, either as samples or as part of the menu.
- Potato latkes (LOT-keys, or LOT-kuhs) are traditionally enjoyed during the Jewish holiday of Chanukah. They would be a great addition to a breakfast menu or offered at lunch! Made mostly from shredded potatoes and onions, latkes are typically served with applesauce and sour cream. Here is a recipe from General Mills that has just four ingredients – water, whole grain pancake mix, potatoes, and onions.
- Kwanzaa celebrates African-American culture, and the foods served can vary by family origin and tradition. Southern soul food and Caribbean dishes are popular additions to the holiday meal. Cajun jambalaya, catfish, black-eyed peas, collard greens, corn pudding, and sweet potatoes are all student-friendly options.