Chef’s Choice Award-Winning Recipes

FoodService Director’s Chef’s Choice Award, which recognizes menu innovation in noncommercial operations, was announced at the publication’s annual MenuDirections conference. The winners were selected by the magazine’s Chefs’ Council, a panel of 50 culinary experts representing every noncommercial segment. The top award went to the Falafel Waffle from Marist College. That recipe, along with the three runners-up, all incorporate on-trend ideas, ingredients and flavors. 

Falafel Waffle

Marist Dining Services
Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

The culinary team at Marist College combined two hot trends—falafel and waffles—into the winning recipe. The falafel batter, which combines chickpeas with olive oil, egg and seasonings, is cooked on a waffle iron instead of a deep fryer. The crispy waffle is then topped with traditional falafel add-ons: tahini sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers and onions.

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Mai Bowl

Dickinson College
Carlisle, Penn.

This build-your-own bowl nails the customization trend. Student diners can choose from an endless assortment of protein options, including calamari, halibut, chicken, tofu and sausage; add rice or noodles; and mix in a variety of vegetables. Over 30 sauces and garnishes also are offered; the two recipes given in the sauces are among the most popular. 

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Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

School District of Holmen
Holmen, Wis.

Holmen’s K-12 school district offers a convenient, healthy and tasty way to cook chicken for a crowd of hungry kids. The staff combines the spices in a shaker, sprinkles the seasoning on the chicken and bakes the pieces in a convection oven. The blend of paprika, oregano, cumin, garlic and cayenne has lots of kid appeal.

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Mediterranean Naan Salad

Chartwells

Mediterranean food continues to trend on menus, offering both health benefits and fresh flavors. For a twist on a Greek salad, the Chartwells team tosses warm naan bread spread with tzatziki sauce into the bowl. It adds texture and flavor to the mix of greens, fresh mint, olives, artichokes and more.

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