Nothing says “fresh eats” like using locally grown ingredients to serve up a divine twist on classic dishes! When the City of Stonecrest brought us on board as part of their Parks and Recreation Department’s Earth Day celebration, we knew we had an outstanding opportunity to commemorate Earth Day and to foster a deeper connection between the community and their local environment through a foodie exploration of flavors. Our approach was to provide a truly immersive experience that would leave a lasting impression on everyone involved.

The event was uniquely vegan, highlighting the potential of plant-based diets in promoting environmental sustainability. This choice not only aligned with the values of Earth Day but also introduced the community to new and exciting culinary possibilities. We curated the menu with care to show that delicious, diverse flavors and the many nutritional benefits that vegan foods offer are not mutually exclusive!

How did we “ramp up” the flavor? One way was through using…ramps! Foraged from the Appalachian Trail region, ramps are a fantastic substitute for garlic and onions in recipes. It works wonderfully in stir-fries, sautéed with vegetables, or as part of a butter compound or pesto. Pickled, it adds a tangy touch to charcuterie boards, and when combined with kimchi, it brings an extra layer of flavor to various dishes.

In addition to our ramp kimchi, our team provided a detailed menu that featured an array of dishes, including beet hummus, endive flowers, a grazing table, squash blossoms, and basil blossoms. Each item was designed to not only be delicious but also to showcase innovative ways to incorporate vegetables and herbs into one’s diet.

In partnership with Georgia Grown, we were able to source local ingredients, reinforcing our commitment to supporting regional farmers and producers. Georgia Grown is an initiative that highlights the state’s rich agricultural heritage and promotes locally grown products. The collaboration with this organization allowed us to procure high-quality ingredients and share them with the community, enhancing their experience and deepening their appreciation for local produce.

Throughout the event, we made it a point to stay and engage with attendees, sharing our own knowledge and learning from others. This interaction was crucial in fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. We also had the pleasure of featuring some delicious vegan offerings from Royal Food Service, which generously provided food for the event.

The event was a true celebration of local produce, sustainable practices, and community engagement. It was a joy to witness the positive impact and enthusiasm of the participants as they explored new tastes and learned about the importance of supporting local agriculture. This Earth Day celebration was not just an event; it was a vibrant expression of our collective commitment to a more sustainable and connected community.

When planning your next gathering, be sure to ask us how we can best incorporate seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in your event menu! Culinary creativity is our favorite Catering Concept!

View our menu and place your metro Atlanta catering order online at www.EatCateringConcepts.com

chow@eatcateringconcepts.com | 678-920-1522